Table of Contents
Advertisement
Vessel Operation
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 & Stern Lines_____________________________
There is only one true bow line. It is secured to the forward cleat and
runs 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
forward.
For small vessels, these are typically the only lines needed for normal
wind and current conditions. If located in a tidal environment, keep
slack in the lines.
Spring Lines___________________________________
Most small boats use the two spring lines, although it is possible to
have four.
They are called the forward spring and aft spring lines. Forward spring
lines are typically tied to the stern cleats and attach to a forward piling
or cleat along the dock. These lines prevent movement aft. Aft spring
lines are typically tied to bow cleats and run to an aft cleat on the dock
to prevent movement astern.
5-21
Advertisement
Table of Contents
