The Proper Way to Dock a Pontoon Boat

Every fun day on the water eventually has to come to an end. When it does, it's important that you are able to park your pontoon boat at the dock properly. Although it can be a delicate process, don't let docking a pontoon boat intimidate you. Instead, use this basic guide from L&M Marine LLC so that you can get it right on the first try. For more boating tips, visit our location in Stapleton, Alabama, serving Mobile, Alabama, and Pensacola, Florida.

Have the Right Gear

To dock and stay docked properly requires the right docking gear. Before you leave on your excursion, make sure that your docking lines are in good condition so that you can quickly and accurately tie off on the dock. You'll also want to inspect your engine to ensure that it can run well at low speeds, a requirement when attempting to dock your pontoon boat.

Have a Clear View

A boat is a large piece of machinery that requires a lot of space to "park." As you approach your docking spot, you must maintain a clear view at all times. If necessary, you can adjust your seat and steering wheel so that you're at a good angle to avoid obstructions that could block your view. Also, make sure that all loose equipment and passengers are out of the way before you begin making your approach so that you're not suddenly distracted during the docking process.

Watch Your Speed

Speed control is a crucial part of successful docking in a pontoon. Docking is not a race against time, and if it becomes a race, there will only be losers. It's especially important to keep in mind that, because of the weight of your pontoon, there is a lot of momentum involved when docking a boat. You will typically only need to use the throttle sparingly, letting momentum do the rest of the work. As long as you are able to control the steering while you are gliding, you only need to use the engine minimally as you approach the dock. Another tip is to reverse the engines when you get close to the dock to cancel the effects of the momentum and give you complete control over where you go.

Room for Error

As long as you keep the above tips in mind, there is some room for error when docking a pontoon. An adequately equipped dock will have plenty of cushioning on the sides so that any small collisions are only minor annoyances. If you want help with your docking skills, be sure to talk to the pros at L&M Marine LLC. You can visit our location in Stapleton, Alabama, serving Mobile, Alabama, and Pensacola, Florida, to learn more.