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Misty Blue · 07-04-2006, 10:37 AM

Ken:

Good subject!

Over the years a sort of protocol has developed. It is not written in to the law books and while Skip has no reference, I am sure that he and the others on the forum adhere to it because it is written in the book of common courtesy.

As I was taught as a boy this is how it generally goes:

Public docking is, as a rule, first come first served. While it is not considered "kosher" to speed up to get in a better spot in the queue, no lines have yet been crossed.

Now while this is not part of the unwritten rule it is considered polite to smile and wave to the others in the queue. It kind of lets them know that you are there, respect their place in line and it is just darn friendly.

When a space opens up the next boat in the queue normally takes it. But there are exceptions...

Size matters! If you are in a 28 foot Carver (gosh I love 'em) and a 20 foot spot opens up it is only logical that the next boat in line take the spot if she can fit.

Conversely, if you and your new found friends in the queue notice two 17 footers docked fore and aft leaving at the same time it is considered a very "Winni" thing to give up the chance and let the Carver dock. It may be her only opportunity till dark and the owner may even buy you a cold one at Garwoods to say thanks!

So Ken, there are the rules. They are not chiseled in stone. They are written in blue skies and crystal waters. If somebody cuts you off, just wave and tell them to have a nice day (they hate that) and pity them because they just don't get it.

Misty Blue.

07-04-2006, 10:37 AM	#5
Misty Blue Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2004 Posts: 658 Thanks: 121 Thanked 283 Times in 98 Posts	Public docking protocol Ken: Good subject! Over the years a sort of protocol has developed. It is not written in to the law books and while Skip has no reference, I am sure that he and the others on the forum adhere to it because it is written in the book of common courtesy. As I was taught as a boy this is how it generally goes: Public docking is, as a rule, first come first served. While it is not considered "kosher" to speed up to get in a better spot in the queue, no lines have yet been crossed. Now while this is not part of the unwritten rule it is considered polite to smile and wave to the others in the queue. It kind of lets them know that you are there, respect their place in line and it is just darn friendly. When a space opens up the next boat in the queue normally takes it. But there are exceptions... Size matters! If you are in a 28 foot Carver (gosh I love 'em) and a 20 foot spot opens up it is only logical that the next boat in line take the spot if she can fit. Conversely, if you and your new found friends in the queue notice two 17 footers docked fore and aft leaving at the same time it is considered a very "Winni" thing to give up the chance and let the Carver dock. It may be her only opportunity till dark and the owner may even buy you a cold one at Garwoods to say thanks! So Ken, there are the rules. They are not chiseled in stone. They are written in blue skies and crystal waters. If somebody cuts you off, just wave and tell them to have a nice day (they hate that) and pity them because they just don't get it. Misty Blue.