Quote:
Originally Posted by Breakwater
The depth of water under your boat at the dock is something to carefully consider. 2-3 feet of water depth at a dock is ok until you begin to experience true 6-8 foot waves. The trough of a wave that height will likely leave you with less than a foot under the boat with each passing wave. Keel and hull damage is almost certain.
Mooring is best if...you have enough "rode" or line (Chapman's calls for 7-10X the water depth for stormy conditions which is difficult at the shoreline) to allow for the rise and fall of significant wave height. Also nylon line that stretches and/or a rubber shock absorber built into the line.
If left at a dock, a 4 way tie is best or a combination of lines, fenders, and an anchor off to the side opposite the dock that holds the boat away from the dock.
Most important is to park the boat bow out to the waves. A boat tied "stern to" is a "sinking" waiting to happen.
And remember to trim up the drive!!
|
Didn't have enough water under my boat to turn it "bow to", so I tied on extra rope, raised the motor up and out and made sure both bilge pumps were clear of leaves, etc. Also retrieved hand pumps from the shed and put them on the front porch.