Question 1

When coming alongside in a cross-wind blowing onto the berth, what is the best approach technique?

Accepted Answer

Approach bow-first at 30-45°, stop using a bow spring or astern propulsion, then let wind push the stern alongside.. Wind onto berth: approach at 30-45 degrees bow to berth. As bow touches, put on a bow spring and use engine ahead with helm away from berth, the stern is pushed in by the wind and by propeller wash. Alternatively, approach bow-on, get bow fast, go astern and let wind push stern alongside. Skill is using spring lines and prop walk to control stern position. The explanation also describes using ahead propulsion with helm away from the berth after securing a bow spring.

Question 2

A single-screw vessel with a right-handed propeller is going ahead. Which way does the prop walk kick the stern?

Accepted Answer

To starboard. RIGHT-HANDED PROPELLER going AHEAD: the propeller turns clockwise when viewed from astern. The paddle wheel effect (prop walk) kicks the stern to STARBOARD (bow to port). Going ASTERN with RH prop: prop turns anticlockwise → stern kicks to PORT. This affects berthing: coming alongside a port-side berth going ahead, the bow naturally turns away, use starboard helm. Coming alongside starboard side, prop walk assists. Going astern, the stern naturally swings to port, useful for port-side alongside berthing.

Question 3

When approaching a marina berth, where should fenders be positioned?

Accepted Answer

Before arrival, position fenders on the side facing the berth, at the vessel’s widest points and wherever contact is expected.. Position fenders before the approach on the side facing the berth, at the vessel’s widest points and wherever contact is expected. Adjust their height to cushion the hull against the actual contact surface, rather than using rail or cleat level as a reference. Prepare them in advance to avoid distracting crew during manoeuvring; any necessary adjustment should be made safely, without placing hands or limbs between the vessel and berth. Fenders commonly hang vertically alongside a pontoon. Against a rough quay wall or piles, a horizontal fender board may be placed outside vertical fenders to spread contact and protect them. Fender orientation should suit the berth and expected contact.

Berthing, questions and explanations

When coming alongside in a cross-wind blowing onto the berth, what is the best approach technique?

A single-screw vessel with a right-handed propeller is going ahead. Which way does the prop walk kick the stern?

When approaching a marina berth, where should fenders be positioned?

Practise this properly

Berthing, questions and explanations

Questions

When coming alongside in a cross-wind blowing onto the berth, what is the best approach technique?

A single-screw vessel with a right-handed propeller is going ahead. Which way does the prop walk kick the stern?

When approaching a marina berth, where should fenders be positioned?

Practise this properly