Regal 38 EXPRESS, Owner'S Manual

Page: 148 / 317

6
Chapter 6
DOCK LINE BASICS
Most skippers use dock line
terminology fairly loose but there
is more to the basics than just bow
or stern lines. There are several
lines that can be secured to the bow
and stern and depending on their
direction and use, can be called other
names. Remember that “forward”
and “aft” refer to the direction that
a spring line runs from the vessel, and not where it is
secured on board.
BOW AND STERN LINES
There is only one true bow line. It is secured to the for-
ward cleat and run forward along the dock to prevent the
vessel from moving to the stern. The stern line leads from
a rear cleat to a piling or cleat on the dock astern of the
vessel. This line keeps the boat from moving ahead. For
small vessels these are the only lines needed for normal
wind and current conditions. If located in a tidal environ-
ment, keep slack in the lines.
BREAST LINES
These lines are attached to the bow and stern that lead
to nearly right angles from the center of the vessel to the
dock. They help keep larger vessels from moving away
from the dock, or are pulled in to help people board the
vessel. Bigger vessels may use bow or quarter breast
lines.
SPRING LINES
Most boats use two spring lines although it is possible to
have four. They are called the after bow spring and for-
ward quarter spring.
Bow springs are secured at the vessel’s bow area. Forward
spring lines lead forward from the boat to the dock and
control movement stern ward. After springs stem aft from
the vessel, and stop movement ahead. Spring lines are used
to prevent movement in a berth, ahead or astern. They are
really useful in controlling the effects of a real active tidal
surge. Spring lines are useful where fenders need to be kept
in place against piles.
1. Bow line
2. After bow spring
3. Forward quarter
spring
4. Stern line
TYPICAL PIER MOORING
=FENDER
1.
2.
BOAT MOORING
Most boats can be secured to a dock using four lines.
The after bow spring is crossed with the forward quarter
spring and secured to individual dock cleats or pilings.
This ensures longer springs and can be snugged up tighter
for more ef
fi cient tidal control. Remember, if you only
have one piling available, position the vessel so this point
is opposite amidships. Run both spring lines to it. These
lines will be shorter but still useful.
3.
4.
TYPICAL PILING MOORING
1. 2 & 3.
4.
1. Bow line
2. After bow spring
3. Forward quarter spring
4. Stern line