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Docking a Boat: 5 Easy Steps for Beginners

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Last Updated on August 15, 2023 by Boatsetter Team

Learning how to dock a boat with style and confidence requires a little experience and familiarity with how your boat handles. Docking a boat by yourself or with a crew aboard becomes easier once you learn how to judge wind and currents. In this post, we’ll teach you how to dock a boat in five easy steps so that the next time you’re out on a Boatsetter rental , you can take the helm with more confidence.

• Make a plan
• Prepare the boat
• Docking with wind or current
• Approach the dock slowly
• Swing the wheel

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1. Make a plan

If you are unfamiliar with the dock, make a reconnaissance pass to determine how you’ll approach it. Things to consider as you prepare to dock the boat:

• The side of the boat you’ll be docking on.
• The location of cleats for tying up to the dock.
• The dock height so you can have your fenders adjusted to best protect the boat.

A fuel dock or the dock at a marina or restaurant may have an attendant who will tell you where they’d like you to tie up and will help you handle your dock lines.

2. Prepare the boat

Before you begin approaching a dock or slip, attach dock lines to a bow and stern cleat on the side of the boat that will be near the dock. Also, hang your fenders (bumpers) on that side of the boat. Now when you reach the dock, you’ll be ready to tie up.

3. Docking with wind or current

Take a moment to check for wind and current that could affect how your boat will handle as you approach the dock. Flags on shore can give you a good idea of wind direction. If there’s an offshore wind, you’ll want to approach the dock at a sharper angle for best boat control, perhaps at 45 to 50 degrees. If the wind is blowing onshore, approach at a more shallow angle – 30 degrees or less – and plan to let the wind push you towards the dock.

Current can be observed by looking at dock pilings or markers– if there’s a significant current, you’ll be able to see the water flowing around the pilings or markers. Anticipate how current will move the boat as you approach the dock, and aim up-current so that you end up on target.

If you have the option, you’ll have better boat control approaching the dock into the current or wind.

READ MORE: Dock and Dine Basics: 7 Tips for Success

4. Approach the dock slowly

With wind and current in mind, begin your approach to the dock with just enough speed so that you maintain control. Take it slow; bumping the engine in and out of gear is okay. You’ll have more time to react and make decisions.

5. Swing the wheel

When the bow is about one boat length away from the dock, turn the steering wheel hard away from the dock. This will cause the stern to pivot towards the dock, closing up your angle of approach.

A smaller boat will react more quickly to this steering input than a bigger boat – after docking a few times, you’ll learn how your boat behaves and be prepared to time your move perfectly.

As the boat becomes parallel to the dock, turn the wheel hard in the other direction and shift into reverse. This will arrest the boat’s speed and pivot. If you have that on-shore wind, let the breeze drift the boat right up to the dock.

When the wind is off-shore, be ready to get a line on a dock cleat (or toss a line to the attendant) before the boat drifts off the dock.

If you find yourself out of control or position, aborting the approach is always okay. Idle away from the dock and try again. On your second approach, you may have a better idea of how wind or current is moving the boat or your ideal angle of approach and speed. Practice makes perfect! You’ll get the hang of it.

Learn how to boat with Boatsetter Academy

One sure way to get the hang of docking, among other skills, is by joining Boatsetter Academy at any one of its 16 locations. Through this 2-hour, hands-on boating course, beginners like you will build confidence and become familiar with the basics of boating. And the best part: courses are completely free!

Boatsetter is a unique boat-sharing platform that gives everyone— whether you own a boat or you’re just renting — the chance to experience life on the water. You can list a boat , book a boat , or make money as a captain .

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Charles Plueddeman  is a self-employed writer and photographer based in Wisconsin. A staff editor and contributor to  Boating Magazine  since 1986, he is the author of its “Off My Dock” column. In the marine realm he specializes in engine technology and trailerable boats. His editorial work has appeared in many national publications, including  Popular Mechanics, Men’s Journal, Playboy, Popular Science, Cycle World,  and  Harley-Davidson Enthuisast .

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How to Tie a Boat to a Dock

Last Updated: July 23, 2024 Fact Checked

Securing the Dock Lines

Tying knots, checking your docking gear, expert q&a.

This article was co-authored by Nitzan Levy and by wikiHow staff writer, Luke Smith, MFA . Captain Nitzan Levy is a Sailor, Social Entrepreneur, and the Founder of Sailors NYC, a recreational sailors’ club based in Jersey City, New Jersey that specializes in cruising boats and a variety of community programs. Capt. Levy has over 20 years of sailing experience and has sailed in many places around the world including: the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, The Caribbean, and the Indian Ocean. Capt. Levy is a U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Master of vessels up to 50 Tons with Auxiliary Sail and Assistance Towing Endorsements. Capt. Levy is also a NauticEd Level V Captain Rank Chief Instructor, an American National Standards Assessor, an SLC instructor, an ASA (American Sailing Association) Certified Instructor Bareboat Chartering, and an Israeli licensed skipper on Boats for International Voyages. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 390,866 times.

You’re coming in from a fabulous day on the water, and now it’s time to dock your boat. Any skipper worth their salt will tell you that proper docking and tying is vital to keeping both your own boat and others’ in ship shape and ready to sail again. We’ll show you how to maneuver and secure your boat’s lines to the dock, how to tie the appropriate knots, and give you some pointers on the proper equipment you’ll need for safe harbor.

Things You Should Know

• Maneuver your boat so that it’s parallel to and about 1–2 ft (0.30–0.61 m) away from the dock.
• Tie the front of the boat to the dock’s cleats or pilings first, then secure the back of the boat. Finally, tie a spring line from one end of the boat to the opposite end of the dock.
• Use a simple cleat knot to fasten the looped end of the rope, and cleat hitch to fasten the unlooped end. Tie a clove hitch to fasten the lines to pilings.

• Have your lines ready and tied to your boat cleats before you approach the dock, and be sure your fenders are deployed off the side of your boat.
• If the wind or current is against you, carefully approach at a sharper angle (about 40 degrees), and reverse the engine to stop before you hit the dock.
• If you’re docking in a slip, align the boat with the slip’s lane, then alternate the boat in forward and neutral to let it coast into the slip. Reverse to stop the boat when it’s securely in the slip.

• Your boat has many possible cleats to tie onto, but only use 3-4 to prevent tangles. Never tie your boat lines to railings, frames, or anything other than a sturdy cleat.
• Tie your lines at an angle from the boat to the dock to lengthen the lines, which accommodates the up-and-down movement of the tides.

• Make sure the dock lines are attached to both sides of the dock so the boat stays in place.

• Always make sure the stern, bow, and spring lines are attached at all times when you tie up the boat, since they’re the most secure lines.
• Untie the breast lines whenever you’re away from the boat for long periods. Or, remove the line from the center boat cleat and tie it to the stern, instead, to allow for more slack.

• Only use a clove knot to attach to a piling or post. These knots aren’t suitable for attaching to cleats.

• If your boat does not have cleats, mount your own cleats using thru-bolts with backing plates. Simply using screws to secure the cleat to the deck might cause the cleats to break away under strain.

• Tie your boat to pilings if you plan to dock your boat for several weeks or months, since they keep it secure for a longer period of time.

• Attach fenders to your boat using the ties on the fenders. Leave them on, hanging inside the boat, until it is time to dock. Then, place them on the outside of the boat before you set up the dock lines.

• Tie the boat with the bow at a 20-degree angle away from the dock to accommodate small wakes and waves, and prevent the bow from bumping the dock. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.bwsailing.com/cc/2016/01/dock-a-boat-like-a-pro-how-to-use-a-breast-line/
• ↑ https://www.boat-ed.com/indiana/studyGuide/Docking-With-No-Wind-or-Current/10101602_35177/
• ↑ Nitzan Levy. Sailing Instructor. Expert Interview. 24 April 2020.
• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpxLoeAlSuA&feature=youtu.be&t=45
• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDvdpLl3LuQ&feature=youtu.be&t=29
• ↑ https://www.animatedknots.com/cleat-hitch-knot-dock-line
• ↑ https://www.animatedknots.com/indexboating.php
• ↑ https://www.lifeofsailing.com/post/what-is-a-sailboat-cleat
• ↑ https://blog.overtons.com/boating/the-beginners-guide-to-docking-a-boat
• ↑ https://www.lifeofsailing.com/post/how-to-dock-a-sailboat

About This Article

To tie up a boat, start by getting proper mooring gear like cleats and fenders to prevent scratches and damage to your boat. Next, pull the boat up to a sturdy dock and set up stern, bow, and spring dock lines, which are the lines of rope that attach your boat to the dock. For additional security, you can also add a breast line. Then, secure the dock lines with strong boating knots, such as simple cleat knots, so the boat stays in place. For tips on trying out different knots, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Dock a Boat: Everything You Need to Know

Are you a new boat owner? Speak to any newbie about the biggest challenge they have with boating, and they’re likely to tell you that it’s docking their vessel. Sure, it’s all fun when we’re out on the water. As long as you play it safe and stick to the safety rules, you’re going to have a good time.

However, when the day is over, it’s time to take the boat back to the slips. All of a sudden, boating takes a new turn. The last thing you want to do is ruin the joy of the weekend with a boating accident as you’re docking.

Plenty of things can go wrong when you dock the boat, and if you’re not paying extra careful attention to what you’re doing, you could damage the dock and your boat, costing thousands of dollars in repairs.

While practicing docking is the best way to build the skill, you need a docking strategy to ensure that you have something to practice. Taking a systematic approach to docking your boat is the best way to ensure you get consistent, accident-free results with the task.

This guide to how to dock a boat unpacks everything you need to ensure you get a successful docking experience and a pleasant end to your day trip.

Top Tips for Docking Your Boat

Successfully docking your boat is all about following the right procedure to approaching the dock and bringing the vessel into the slip without damaging the sides of the hull or the dock. We recommend new boat owners follow these tips when docking their boat for the first time.

Take it slow on your first time docking your boat. The process should take a little longer than expected, rather than end up wasting time delivering the boat to the repair shop.

Relax on the Approach

When you’re approaching the dock, take a deep breath, focus your attention on the task, and stay calm. Panicking won’t do anything to solve the problem, and it’s the worst response to have when you’re about to dock.

Panicking will inspire panic in your passengers, and they may decide to jump ship, injuring themselves. Staying in the boat is always the safest option, even if you’re at risk of a hard landing.

Don’t scream at the crew or dockhands; it’s not going to make a difference to them other than to make you look like an authoritarian jerk. Good communication between the crew and dockhands is essential during the docking process.

Bring Down the Throttle

Back off the throttle when you enter the harbor or marina and start moving the boat into a drifting motion, relying more on the wind and current than the power of the motor.

Keep the RPMs on the engine well below the 1,000-rpm mark during the docking process and when entering the marina. Going slow is the biggest tip we can give you.

When you take a relaxed approach to docking, you have more time to respond to the situation if something starts going wrong. Moving into the dock at too fast a speed result in damage to the pier and the boat, and you could end up paying a huge amount of money for repairs.

Prep the Lines and Fenders

Before getting to the dock, have your boat prepped with lines and fenders, ready for the water. Ensure that you’re aware of where the fenders are hanging off the side of the boat. The fenders should provide the hull-sides with the necessary protection from contact with the dock.

Most fenders will hover just above the waterline, and you’ll need between two to three fenders on each side of the boat for the best protection against body damage. You’ll also need a stern line, bowline, and one or two spring lines.

Toss the Line

Unless you’re an experienced captain, it’s a good idea to have the deckhands avoid the practice of providing the bow line first. Bow lines don’t offer you much utility in the early stages of the docking process.

If the boat is in a current or facing the wind, then the dockhands won’t be able to control the vessel using the bowline alone. Instead, you’ll need a spring line that you can hedge forward on or back down.

What is the Spring Line?

The spring line assists with the backward and forward movement of the boat during the docking process. It reduces the chances of the boat banging against the dock as you start to tie it off. The spring line gets you closer to the dock, reducing the play in the line and the distance of the boat to the dock for a secure docking result.

Most dockhands are well aware of how to use a spring line when docking a boat. However, it’s a good idea for captains to learn the process in case there is a rare occasion where you have to guide them through it.

After handing off or tossing off the spring line, the dockhand will wrap the line around a cleat to bring the boat closer to the dock and minimize banging on the sides of the vessel. It’s important that the dockhands don’t lock off the line.

They need to secure the line for a successful docking experience, so it is easy to remove and provides you with the most amount of control possible.

What is the Bow Line?

The bowline is the rope tied to the bow (front) of the boat. You can use the bowline to tow the boat or provide additional support for docking the vessel.

However, new boat owners need to realize that they should not lead the docking process using the bowline.

Backing Down

Backing down is a similar process. You’ll need to provide a forward spring line that allows you to back down on it. Turn the steering wheel of the boat hard to port and then back down after the spring line locks off or secures to the dock.

If you have a vessel with twin screws, back down using the starboard engine only, cutting the wheel hard to port. After completing these tasks, you’ll find that the vessel slowly starts to turn toward the dock.

Follow with Your Bow Line

After you get close enough to the dock, the deckhand provides the bowline to the dockhand. The dockhand locks down the bowline to the dock.

However, they don’t use enough force to complete the task, the stern kicks out, creating further issues with the docking process.

Boat Docking Example

If you’re tying the boat up on the starboard side, and there is a strong win forcing the boat away from the dock, hand the spring line to the dockhand and use a wrap-around cleat to move the spring line forward. Turn the when to starboard, and keep the motor in the forward drive position.

If your boat has twin motors, use the port engine and turn off the starboard engine while turning the steering wheel hard to starboard.

The boat will start to inch towards the dock. Pass the stern line to the dockhand and bring it in tightly. Exchange the stern line for the cross-stern when you finish securing the boat to the dock.

With all three lines secure, you can get the dockhands to tighten the bow and adjust the spring lines where required.

Docking Your Boat in a Slip

Docking in slips at marinas is the most commonplace for boat owners to leave their boat or take a break on land for a while. Before you dock in the slip, we recommend that you have your fender bumpers and docking lines ready.

Start the docking procedure by slowing your speed and checking your surroundings for hazards. Pay attention to the water, the conditions, the current, and the wind. Remember to take it slow when approaching the dock. Going too fast will end with disaster, involving damage to your vessel.

Position the boat to prepare to back into the slip. Center the wheel before you start backing in and slowly reverse into the slip.

Keep your passengers seated during the docking process so they can’t block your view of your surroundings. Having people walking around the deck may also unbalance the boat as you’re backing in, causing an accident.

As you get close to the dock, reverse the throttle quickly with a single burst to kill the boat’s momentum. Tie it off to the pier using your stern and bowlines, and you’re ready to explore the marina.

How to Tie Your Boat to the Dock

With enough practice, you’ll find that docking your boat becomes a piece of cake. With enough experience, you’ll feel like you could do it blindfolded – but don’t do that.

After you’re familiar with the docking process, you’ll need to learn how to tie your boat off to the dock. First, you’ll need to ensure you have the right equipment on hand. Docking or mooring lines are essential for securing the boat to the pier.

There are several different types of docking lines, including the stern, bow, breast, and spring lines. Most docking situations only call for the use of the stern and bowlines. You’ll also need to ensure that you have “fenders” for the sides of the boat. The fenders prevent the sides of the boat from clashing with the dock and damaging your paintwork.

When you’re tying off the boat, you’ll usually find cleats or pilings on the dock, allowing for securing marine lines. The cleats are the smaller, t-shaped steel equipment attached to the pier. You’ll also find similar cleats on the sides of the boat for tying it off to the dock.

Pilings are the wooden or steel posts on docks. You’ll usually see these posts on piers. It’s better to tie off the boat using cleats rather than pilings. Pilings are generally more challenging for new boat owners, and cleats are far more forgiving on your inexperience.

You’ll use one of three common knots when tying off the lines. The cleat hitch, clove hitch, and bowline knot are the most common knots used for tying off. Check out some tutorials on YouTube o learn how to tie these knots.

Bonus Boat Docking Tips

If the wind is strong, it might be a better idea to back in instead of going bow-in to the dock. You’ll need to keep your eye on the process and make fine adjustments frequently for a successful docking experience.

Ensure you have the fenders in the correct position before docking the boat. Fenders make a huge difference, and they’ll save the paintwork from disaster. Ball fenders can save new boat owners thousands of dollars in costly repairs to their vessels every year.

Many new boats come with a stern or bow thrusters. These thrusters are helpful in the docking process, making the fine adjustments required for a successful docking procedure.

How to Dock a Boat – Quick Checklist

Docking a boat is the most stressful part of the boating experience for new owners. It’s stressful and nerve-wracking, but you’ll get better at it with practice. Learning how to dock a boat isn’t rocket science, but the biggest tip we can give you is to monitor the environmental conditions when approaching the dock.

Noting the wind, wind speed, and water conditions is the most crucial aspect of the docking process and managing your speed when navigating the marina or harbor.

Other than that, you can use this brief checklist for a successful docking experience with your vessel.

• Prep your docking lines and attach the fenders.
• Line up your approach to the dock and survey the landing area for hazards.
• Judge the wind and the current around the pier.
• Take your time with the docking procedure, and don’t rush things.
• Don’t approach the dock at speed over where you’re willing to make contact.
• Navigate the vessel to the slip or turn the bat to come alongside the pier.
• Tie the boat off using the docking lines, cleats, pilings, or poles.

John is an experienced journalist and veteran boater. He heads up the content team at BoatingBeast and aims to share his many years experience of the marine world with our readers.

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Mastering Marina Dockage: How to Dock a Boat in a Marina

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Welcome aboard AccuDock’s guide on mastering marina dockage! Whether you’re a seasoned captain or a novice sailor, learning the art of docking a boat in a marina is essential for a safe and enjoyable boating experience. In this detailed guide, we’ll take you through each step of the process, providing expert tips and techniques to ensure smooth and stress-free dockings every time.

Understanding Marina Dockage

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of boat docking, let’s first understand what marina dockage entails. Marina dockage refers to the process of safely mooring or docking a boat at a marina or waterfront facility. It requires a combination of skill, patience, and a solid understanding of various environmental factors such as wind, current, and water depth.

The Science Behind It

At its core, marina dockage is governed by the laws of physics and fluid dynamics. Factors such as wind, current, and water depth play a crucial role in determining the approach and execution of the docking maneuver. For instance, wind direction and speed can affect the boat’s drift, while currents can exert forces that influence its trajectory. Understanding these forces is essential for a successful docking experience.

Expert Insight

According to maritime experts, mastering marina dockage requires a combination of skill, experience, and situational awareness. Captains must be able to anticipate and adapt to changing conditions, making split-second decisions to ensure a smooth and safe docking process. Familiarity with the specific characteristics of each vessel, such as its size, draft, and handling capabilities, is paramount for achieving precise maneuvers in tight quarters.

Facts and Figures

Did you know that improper docking procedures are a leading cause of boat damage and accidents in marinas? According to a study conducted by the BoatUS Foundation , over 50% of all reported boating accidents occur during docking or maneuvering at low speeds. This highlights the importance of proper training and education in marina dockage practices.

Advancements in technology have revolutionized the field of marina dockage, with the advent of tools such as bow thrusters, stern thrusters, and remote docking systems providing captains with greater precision and control over their vessels.

How to Dock a Boat in a Marina

Mastering the art of docking a boat in a marina takes practice and patience. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

1. Approach Slowly and Carefully

As you approach the marina, reduce your boat’s speed to a crawl. Slow, controlled movements give you time to assess the conditions and make any necessary adjustments. Keep an eye out for other boats, obstacles, and changing water conditions.

2. Consider Wind and Current

Take note of the wind direction and strength, as well as any currents in the water. These factors can significantly affect your boat’s handling and maneuverability. Adjust your approach angle and speed to compensate for these external forces.

3. Communicate Effectively

If you have crew members or passengers on board, assign specific roles and responsibilities for the docking process. Clear communication is key to ensuring everyone is on the same page and can act quickly and decisively if needed.

4. Utilize Docking Aids

Take advantage of docking aids such as fenders, dock lines, and bumpers to protect your boat and the dock from damage. Fenders should be strategically placed along the sides of your boat to cushion any impacts, while dock lines provide stability and control during the docking process.

5. Execute Controlled Maneuvers

Use precise throttle and steering control to maneuver your boat toward the dock. Make gradual adjustments as needed to maintain a steady approach. Avoid sudden movements or sharp turns, as these can lead to accidents or collisions.

6. Cutting the Wheel Like a Pro

To dock your boat with precision, master the technique of cutting the wheel. As you approach the dock, gently turn the wheel in the opposite direction you want the boat to move. This technique helps pivot the boat towards the dock while maintaining forward momentum, allowing for a smooth and controlled approach.

7. Secure the Boat

Once you’ve successfully navigated the docking process, the next crucial step is securing your boat in place. This step is essential for maintaining stability and safety, especially in unpredictable weather conditions or high-traffic marinas. This is why we are going to explain the best practices for securing your boat effectively:

Utilize Dock Lines

Dock lines are the lifelines of boat mooring, providing the necessary tension to keep your vessel securely fastened to the dock. When selecting dock lines, opt for high-quality, marine-grade ropes that are strong, durable, and resistant to UV degradation and abrasion. The size and number of dock lines needed will depend on the size and weight of your boat, as well as the prevailing environmental conditions.

Tie Off to Dock Cleats

Secure each dock line to the designated dock cleats using appropriate knots or hitches. Cleats are metal or plastic fittings attached to the dock that provide a sturdy anchor point for securing the boat. When tying off your boat, use cleats that are in good condition and securely attached to the dock structure. Ensure that each dock line is wrapped around the cleat at least two or three times before being secured with a suitable knot, such as a cleat hitch or bowline.

Maintain Proper Tension

Achieving the right tension in your dock lines is crucial for preventing excessive movement and ensuring the stability of your boat. Too much tension can strain the dock cleats and put undue stress on your boat’s hull, while too little tension may result in inadequate security and an increased risk of drifting or swaying. Double-check that all dock lines are properly tensioned, with enough slack to accommodate changes in water levels and boat movement.

Consider Additional Precautions

In addition to dock lines, consider employing additional measures to enhance the security of your boat. This may include installing fenders or cushions along the dock to provide extra protection against impacts and abrasion. You can also use spring lines to help control the boat’s fore-and-aft movement and minimize the risk of surging or swaying in response to passing boat wakes or tidal currents.

Regular Inspection and Maintenance

Periodically inspect your dock lines, cleats, and other mooring equipment for signs of wear, damage, or degradation. Replace any worn or damaged components promptly to maintain the integrity and effectiveness of your mooring system. Additionally, adjust your mooring setup as needed to accommodate changes in weather conditions, water levels, or boat size.

8. Monitor and Adjust

Docking is not a set-it-and-forget-it process. Keep an eye on your boat’s position and condition while docking and be prepared to make adjustments as needed. This may include repositioning fenders, tightening or loosening dock lines, or adjusting your boat’s orientation to the dock.

By following these detailed steps and practicing regularly, you’ll develop the skills and confidence needed to master marina dockage like a seasoned pro. Remember, patience, practice, and attention to detail are key to achieving smooth and successful dockings every time.

Master Marina Dockage with AccuDock’s Guide!

Congratulations on completing AccuDock’s comprehensive guide to mastering marina dockage! We hope you found the information and tips provided helpful in enhancing your boating skills and confidence. Whether you’re managing a commercial marina, or enjoying recreational water activities, knowing how to dock a boat safely and efficiently is paramount. If you need customizable floating docks or marina solutions, don’t hesitate to contact us at AccuDock . Let us be your trusted partner in achieving smooth and stress-free docking for years to come.

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Docking a Boat For Beginners and What You Should Know

Docking a boat for the first time is probably one of the more nerve-wracking experiences you will have to endure as a boater. I bet practically everyone you talk to will tell you how easy it is to dock a boat, and well, for the most part, they will be right. It really is an easy task as long as you know what you are doing.

I’ve put together a guide below in this article to help explain how to dock a boat so that when you try it for the first time it won’t feel as overwhelming.

Steps For Coming Alongside a Dock

Step 1: line up the approach.

Step 2: Keep It Slow

A common mistake that most new boaters make is that they come in way too fast. As you are approaching the dock, use your forward and reverse gears to help maintain the proper speed you are looking for. On a twin-engine vessel, you can switch back and forth between the engines to help you slowly come in.

Step 3: Swing Your Boat In

Step 4: Finishing Touch

Step 5: Secure Your Boat

With the boat sitting parallel to the dock, you can now turn off the engine and begin to secure it to the dock.  Once the boat is secure, you can begin to let off or let on your passengers.

How To Dock a Boat With a Single Engine

Usually, docking a boat with a single engine is the easiest thing that you can do. The first thing to focus on here is to get the dock lines pre-rigged. At this time you want to have the fenders set and also hung over the side.

It’s a good idea to study the current orientation, as this might end up affecting your docking experience. Make sure that you handle the bow of the boat adequately so you can eliminate the wind force. Ideally, you want to have more control, and that means going against the wind or water currents.

If you have crew members, you want them to be at various strategic spots. These include the stern and the bow, some should even be at the dock lines if possible. Your crew should never put their feet or hands between the boat and any other item, as they can end up with some major injuries. So you need a lot of attention and focus, otherwise, you will end up with problems.

As you get closer and closer to docking a boat, you need to line it up for the approach. Slow down but maintain steerage if possible, as that will work a lot. You can also lower the canvas enclosure, sports towers or the bimini tops, as that will help you reduce the wind effect. It will also give you more control over the boat, which is what you need in a situation like this.

In case you see that the wind or currents are pushing you against the dock, you want to make the entry as shallow as possible (degrees). It’s important to increase the angle of attack when the weather is good and there are no currents. Don’t move with the wind if you want to get the utmost control, so try to keep that in mind at all costs. Slowness is key if you want to start docking a boat the right way. Make small adjustments as you get closer and closer to the dock.

A good trick that most people use is to put the engine into and out of gear. If you see any issues, abort the docking procedure and try again. The last thing you want is to deal with are any major issues.

In order to complete the process, you will have to stop the forward momentum of the boat. You can do that simply by delivering a tiny bit of power in reverse. The attempt is to stay in a line if possible. Angle the engine at the dock and then make the reverse approach if possible. Tie off and ensure that the dock lines are set, this way you can be sure that you won’t come in contact with other boats. Shut down the engine only when the boat is 100% secure. Otherwise, you will end up dealing with problems.

Secure the lines and make sure that the ropes are put in tight. Since this is a single engine boat, you don’t need to use lots of ropes, but the more you use, the more secure your boat will be. So try to keep that in mind.

How To Dock a Boat With Twin Engines

If you use this system, the boat is pivoting on the axis. You can put the port engine in reverse and the starboard engine in forwarding movement. When you do this, you will notice that the port engines pull the bow of your boat to the port and the starboard engine ends up pushing the stern to the starboard. It’s still a great system for you to try out and it can actively work well if you handle it appropriately.

Docking a boat with 2 engines is great because you also have an outboard, outdrives or twin inboards with rudders. It’s a good idea to center the steering wheel as the engines will do all the work. The inboards will pivot a boat a lot faster when compared to the outboards. If you use the outboards, you will need to add more power if you want similar results. Which is why using the inboards is a lot easier. But it’s up to you to experiment and see the right approach.

If you get close to the dock, you want to alternate the power distribution as you try to keep everything under control. The trick here is to practice this and apply power to the starboard and the port engines adequately. If you pull alongside, you want the engine that’s farther from the dock as you try to pull the stern in.

Using a single engine or both in tandem is a great idea. But it does require experimentation, mostly because stuff like this can be very difficult to manage and handle. Yet it does have the potential to work very well if you know what you are getting into with stuff like this. So yes, it doesn’t matter if you have 2 or more engines most of the time. Usually, if you have more than 2engines, you will notice that they are paired electronically on the outer engines. However, some models do allow you to configure stuff through the engine controls too. And that’s incredibly interesting and rewarding.

Docking With Thrusters

The thing to consider here is that most of the modern stern and bow thrusters have their own controllers. There are some units that have a controller in the form of a joystick. The appearance of that controller doesn’t really matter, it mostly comes down to how comfortable you are when it comes to using the controller.

Speaking of that, the controllers will use a green arrow to showcase the direction according to how you maneuver the joystick. A good idea here is to use the thrusters sparingly. You want to use them as the means to correct any possible issues if you can. That will make things a lot easier for you, otherwise, you will end up with some issues here and there. Remember, you can always add more power, but if you add too much power, you end up losing control. So it’s a game of patience and focuses more than anything else.

Then there’s the fact that some of the thrusters and more particularly the electrical ones will shut down for a bit or overheat. Which is why you need to use this in short bursts. The chances of dealing with any kind of problems with this sort of thing are pretty much minimal, so try to consider that.

In the end, it all comes down to experimenting and finding the right system and approach that works for you. Sometimes it can be a simple one, other times it can be very difficult. The idea is to study everything and then experiment to see what’s comfortable for you.

How To Dock a Boat In a Tight Slip

If you have to dock in a tight slip, this will complicate things a little bit. The idea here is that a slip is not a very open space. Docks are open on 3 sides, but the slip just has the pier, and that can make it difficult. Show your companion the mooring line and the eye of the line. You want to show the spot that will be placed over the boat’s cleat and explain how you want to pull this thing off. It might end up being a challenge, so try to consider that.

What you want to do is to lower the speed to the point where you have bare steerageway. You want to go slowly, but not too slow as that can be an issue. If you slowed down to the right speed, go to the pier at a 45-degree angle. If you are close to the pier, go into neutral. Shifting the gears and going into neutral is what you want to do if you want to handle the process correctly and potentially avoid any problems.

Now that you are moving, you want to shift the boat away from the pier, drop the eye of the line and now move around 2-3 feet from the pier as you shift the motor ahead just a tiny bit. You want to tie off the cleat to the bow of the boat. Do that and then you will be docked.

Tips To Dock a Boat Safely

If you have twin inboards, don’t touch the wheel even if you are tempted. Lower the windage if you are dealing with winds, regardless of their intensity! It’s also a good idea to make sure that you never kill the engines until all the lines are secure. Otherwise, you can end up with problems.

That’s why it should always be ok to abort and try again. You should never rush just to try and get this right. It might work right off the bat, or you might need multiple tries to pull it off. The idea is to know what you are getting into and focus on making this a great experience. It’s all about precision more than anything else.

In the end, docking a boat is only as hard as you make it be. Yes, it won’t work right away and you might have to try it out multiple times. But this is a game of patience and precision, and as you get more experience you can get very good at it. That being said, don’t hesitate to use all the tools and features offered by your boat when it comes to docking. It will enable easier and faster dockings, plus you will avoid any potential damage to your boat as well!

“ never approach a pier any faster than you’re willing to hit it”

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Boating 101: How to Tie a Boat to a Dock

Table of Contents

Docking a boat can seem like a daunting task, but knowing what lines you need to tie can make the whole process run more smoothly. In this blog, we’ll outline how to tie a boat to a dock or in a slip, what lines and equipment you’ll need, the kinds of knots you need to know, and some helpful tips to keep your boat safe and secure.

Prepare your boat

There are several pieces of gear you’ll need in order to properly dock your boat. 

• Bow lines (to secure the bow)
• Stern lines (to secure the stern)
• Spring lines (diagonal lines to keep your boat from moving back and forth)
• Breast lines (to aid with boarding and disembarking)
• Fenders (to protect the sides of your boat from the dock or other boats)
• Cleats (attached to your boat and attached to the dock)

The number of lines you need depends on where you dock. For mooring parallel to a dock, it’s common to use one bow line, one stern line, and two spring lines. For mooring in a slip, you’ll likely need two bow lines, two stern lines, and at least one spring line. Each docking situation varies and it’s important to tailor your approach to fit your specific boat and the dock or slip.

If you have your own dock, it’s a good idea to leave your lines tied to the dock cleats (and coiled neatly so no one trips). This will make it quicker and easier to tie your boat to the dock. Just remember to keep enough lines on your boat to dock anywhere else you might stop.

You should have a second full set of lines on your boat. It’s always a good idea to have extra lines on hand anyway, in case one breaks or you need additional lines to better secure your boat in stronger conditions.

Tie a boat to a dock

If you’re mooring parallel to the dock, you’ll need to use one bow line and one stern line to secure either end of your boat, and two spring lines to keep your boat from moving back and forth. Unless you’re docking for an extended period of time or in rough conditions, these four lines are typically enough to safely tie up your boat. 

Your bow line should run from the cleat on your bow to a dock cleat ahead of your boat. Similarly, your stern line should run from the cleat on your stern to a dock cleat behind your boat. Your spring lines will run diagonally between your boat and the dock, aft (backwards) from your bow and fore (forwards) from your stern, crossing each other in the middle.

Tie a boat in a slip

If you’re docking in a slip, you will need to tie more lines than you would at a dock. Boats are often backed into slips, meaning that you’ll have the dock on one side and along the stern, and a piling on the other side of your bow. Use the lines to position your boat in the slip so it doesn’t hit into the dock or the boat docked in the other half of the slip. 

First you’ll tie two bow lines, one from the boat cleat closest to the dock to the dock cleat near the bow. The other bow line will run from the boat cleat on the other side of the bow to the piling in the middle of the slip.

You’ll then tie at least one spring line, running from a boat cleat near the stern to a dock cleat near the bow; this will help you position the stern relative to the back of the slip, and keep your boat from hitting into the dock. 

Finally, you’ll also tie two stern lines, using the boat cleats on either side of your stern.You’ll cross the two stern lines diagonally and tie them off to the opposite dock cleats at the back of the slip. This centers your stern and keeps it from moving back and forth.

If your slip doesn’t fit two boats and you have a dock on all three sides (instead of a piling on one), you’ll tie your boat just as you would if mooring parallel to the dock, but to both sides. You’ll tie two bow lines, two stern lines, and four spring lines.

Tie a boat to a piling or dock post

If you're mooring in a slip, or at a dock that doesn’t have cleats, you’ll need to tie off your lines to a piling, or dock post. Tie your lines lower rather than higher on the piling to reduce the amount of strain on the wood.

There are several different kinds of knots you can use to secure your line to a piling, including a round turn and two half hitches, a clove hitch, and a bowline knot. A round turn and two half hitches is a common and trusted method that ties the line tightly around the piling. A bowline knot creates a loop that’s tied somewhat loosely around the piling; it’s also a safe and secure option. A clove hitch is another tight knot that can be used instead, although it might be slightly less secure and should be followed by additional half hitches.

Tie a boat with a cleat hitch knot

In order to tie your lines to the cleat hitches on your boat and on the dock, you’ll need to master the cleat hitch. It’s a relatively simple knot that is strong enough to keep your boat safe and secure. The knot is similar to making a figure eight around the cleat and creates friction by securing the rope underneath itself.

For more information on tying a cleat hitch, check out another installment of Boating 101, How To Tie a Boat to a Dock Cleat .

#1 Tie lines that are long but tight

To keep your boat from moving around, tie tight, long lines. This might mean skipping a cleat or piling and choosing one that’s further away. Making your lines long is especially important in tidal waters, because long lines allow your boat more freedom to move up and down even with a tight line. Short lines are less forgiving and can hang your boat from the dock, causing it to capsize and damage the dock. 

#2 Only tie breast lines temporarily

Breast lines are short lines tied from a cleat on the side of your boat to an adjacent dock cleat. They’re used to bring the boat right up against the dock, making it easier for passengers to board or disembark. Because they’re so short and tight, they should only be used temporarily, until everyone has gotten on or off the boat. This is particularly important in tidal waters — if the tide changes while a breast line is still tied, the boat can hang from the dock and capsize.

#3 Adjust line configuration for your boat or dock

Each boat and dock layout is different, so you’ll need to figure out the configuration that works best for you. For example, you might need to tie bow or stern lines that angle toward (not away from) your boat because of the length of your boat, the available cleats, or the length of the slip.

It’s important to use the right lines when docking your boat. For mooring parallel to a dock, you’ll likely need a bow line, a stern line, and two spring lines. To dock in a slip, you’ll typically use two bow lines, two stern lines, and a spring line.

For other helpful boating tips, check out more articles on our blog .

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Docking a Boat: Step-by-Step Guide

Docking a boat can often be intimidating and stressful, especially for those just getting started with boating. Luckily, learning how to dock a boat doesn’t have to be difficult, and boaters new and old can quickly master the task by following a few simple steps.

How to Dock a Boat

• Prepare dock lines on your bow and stern and attach fenders.
• Line up your approach and survey the docking area.
• Judge the current, wind, and water conditions.
• Take your time, proceed slowly towards the dock using intermittent acceleration.
• Never approach a dock any faster than you’re willing to hit it.
• Navigate into the boat slip or turn to come alongside the dock.
• Tie off your boat onto cleats, posts, or pilings using your docking lines.

It’s as easy as that! It can also be useful to have a friend or family member onboard or on the dock to help assist you throughout the process. If you’re docking by yourself, remember to take it slow and don’t be afraid to stop, pull back, and circle around to try again. Place your fenders ahead of time and have your docking lines ready to tie off as soon as you’re in close proximity to the dock.

Now, let’s get into some specifics about docking a boat in different situations.

Docking in a Slip

As a boater, docking in a slip is a common scenario you’ll often find yourself in regardless of whether you are docking in your own personal slip, a friend’s slip, or at a public marina or dockside restaurant. Before you begin, we highly recommend having your docking lines and fenders ready ahead of time on both sides of your boat. As in any and all docking situations, you’ll then want to start by checking your surroundings —look out for other nearby boats and be conscious of the conditions of the wind, water and current.

Next, always maneuver at a slow speed . Within a slip, you have limited mobility, which means you have little room to make mistakes. In most cases, you’ll want to position your boat so you’re able to back into the slip . Before you start backing in, you’ll want to center your wheel .

Slowly reverse your boat into the slip . Do your best to keep your balance and tell your passengers to stay seated during the process. This is not only for their safety, but it can help to keep the boat steady as it moves into the slip. Apply one last small burst of power forward to stop your reverse momentum . Then, tie off your lines to the dock. We suggest having two bow lines and two stern lines tied onto both sides of the slip—with the stern lines crossed.

Docking a Pontoon Boat

When it comes to docking a pontoon boat , there are a few factors to keep in mind that differ from docking other types of powerboats . While you’ll still want to concentrate on maneuvering at a slow speed, you’ll want to pay even closer attention to the wind and current conditions . The wind has the ability to completely push your pontoon off track during a docking situation—or worse, push it into the dock itself. If you have a strong breeze present, you can counteract this with small, controlled bursts of acceleration. Likewise, don’t be afraid to use reverse to stop any unwanted forward movement of your boat.

Particularly when first learning how to dock a pontoon boat, you may want to enlist as much help as possible and have someone on land guide your boat alongside the dock or into the slip. You can also be proactive by preparing your docking lines and fenders ahead of time .

Lastly, you’ll want to get to know your boat . For example, how much acceleration do you need to make a complete turn at a slow speed? How sharp can you take a turn? Just like cars, every boat is unique and the more you practice, the better you’ll get at overall handling and docking.

How to Tie a Boat to a Dock

When it comes to docking equipment , you’ll want to keep a large supply of docking lines on hand. These docking lines, also known as mooring lines, can be used in a few different ways and can be referred to as bow, stern, spring and breast lines. In most cases, you’ll only be utilizing your bow lines and stern lines . The final piece of equipment you’ll want onboard are fenders, sometimes called “bumpers.”

When tying off your boat, you’ll usually be docking in a slip or alongside of a dock. In either of these cases, you’ll find cleats or pilings . Cleats are small, t-shaped equipment that are usually made of steel or some kind of metal that is attached to the dock. You also have similar cleats on your boat that you’ll use to attach your docking lines. Pilings, on the other hand, are large wooden posts that you would commonly find on a pier or positioned recurrently along the dock. Whenever possible, you’ll want to tie off your boat to the dock using cleats rather than pilings, for the simple reason that tying off on a piling can sometimes be more challenging.

When it finally comes time to tie your boat to the dock, there are a few common knots you can use to secure your lines: the cleat hitch , the clove hitch , and the bowline knot . Be sure to visit our Discover Boating YouTube channel to check out our videos on Boating Knots 101 .

Read Next: How to Tie Up a Boat

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• Fishing Tips

How to Dock Your Boat By Yourself (Even If It’s Really Windy)

• By: Luke Simonds
• on December 12, 2020
• Found In: Boating Tips , Fishing Tips , Weekly Newsletter: 12-13-20

• Comments (66)

It’s boat docking time!

Nobody wants to look like a complete newbie in front of a crowded boat ramp…

But unless you know how to dock your boat by yourself when the wind is blowing and the current is ripping, then chances are it’ll happen to you.

But don’t worry — in this video, you’ll learn exactly how to dock your boat like a pro in these tough conditions.

I’ll show you which side of the dock is harder to pull your boat up to, which side is easier, and how to dock your boat on both sides in case you have no choice.

Plus, you’ll learn an easy trick to make sure your boat doesn’t float away when you’re trying to tie it off to the dock.

Docking Your Boat By Yourself In The Wind [VIDEO]

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How To Dock Your Boat On The Easy Side Of The Dock

The easy side to dock your boat on when it’s windy is the side that is upwind.

On days with calm winds and a light current, you can drive your boat right up to the side of the dock.

But on days when the wind and/or current is ripping, it’s a little tougher.

If you’re docking on the upwind side, you just need to make one small adjustment: drive your boat to an imaginary dock that’s 3-5 feet over.

When you get to that spot, the wind will gently take you into the dock and you can get out and tie off your boat.

Be sure to tie down whichever side the wind is pushing first.

In this video, the wind was pushing my boat from the back, so I tied down the back first.

How To Dock Your Boat On The Hard Side Of The Dock

On a busy day, the dock may be full and you’ll have no choice but to dock your boat on the downwind (more difficult) side.

This is more difficult because the wind gives you just a small window of opportunity to get your boat to the side of the dock, get out, and grab the ropes to control your boat.

But thankfully, there’s a trick to make this a lot easier.

Here it is: before you approach the dock, have two lines right next to you ready to grab before you step off of the boat onto the dock.

One line will be connected to the back of the boat, and one will be connected to the front.

Having control of both ends of the boat will make this process much easier.

Now, as you approach the dock, come in at about a 45-degree angle, keeping it in neutral for the most part.

Then, at the last second, do a sharp turn and put your motor in gear to bring the side of your boat right up to the dock.

Grab both of the lines, step onto the dock, and tie off your boat.

The reason you grab both lines before you step off the boat is because it’s way too easy for the front of your boat to swing out if you only have a rope controlling the back of the boat.

Docking your boat in the wind by yourself might seem difficult if you don’t know what you’re doing.

But if you plan ahead for the current and wind and use these tips, then it’s actually much easier than you think.

Have any questions about docking your boat?

Let me know down in the comments!

And if you know someone who needs to learn how to dock their boat better, please TAG or SHARE this with them!

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• Boating Tips , Fishing Tips , Weekly Newsletter: 12-13-20

My challenge is usually trying to dock on a blow-off (leeward side) finger dock when arriving from windward. I believe you should pass the finger from a wide sweep from leeward and come back upwind on 20-30deg angle? Any other techniques for this situation? Thanks!

Yes, you’ll definitely need to go past the dock so you can approach into the wind using the same angles/tips shown in this video.

I found this very helpful. Could you do another one, but where the boat ends up facing the other direction on the dock? I keep my boat at a marina where they pick it up with a big forklift, so if I go in bow first, they have to start the engine and flip it around so they can lift it. Since I like to flush out my engine after I come back to the marina, if they have to start it back up to turn it around, it would defeat the purupose of the flushing. My marina is fairly tight and there’s a pretty good current ripping through it most days.

Please dont say “rope”, its a “line” Landlubbers use rope sailors use line 🙂 Great video though I will defiantly follow your instructions next time out appreciate the video thanks!!!

Thanks for making time to leave the helpful comment Jeff!

I have been under the impression that the distinction of “rope” vs. “line” is just based on the utility. So I was saying “rope” when talking about it as basic unemployed cordage. And I said “line” when referring to it being used to secure the boat to the dock. Is that not correct?

Just messing with you. In the small boating world you are correct I would imagine. Aboard ship we would never call anything a rope, even if it was in a coil not being used, you would still addresses it a a line no matter where it was or how it was stored, again just playin!! But for real your videos are awesome, and have helped me learn so much more about inshore fishing then anything I have ever read or watched, you are the man and I appreciate the tutorials very much so thank you

Coming from having 2 engines and good control, this was very helpful and I will have 2 Lines ready when I dock. One on the Bow and one on the Stern ; or if you prefer forward and aft . Sorry, my father made me read Chapman Piloting : Seamanship & Small Boat Handling at a very young age. 🙂

That new Pathfinder is awesome!

Thanks Thomas! We are absolutely loving the new boat.

I fish alone most of the time and have found that tying off a 15 ft line to the grab rail of my center console I can easily get out and pull the center of the boat to the dock with just the single line.

Thanks for making time to leave the helpful comment Stephen!

Great video. I’m a weekend warrior and tense moments coming in to dock. I dry stow, so would love to see docking stern first versus bow first. Nail biter for me!

Thanks for making time to leave the nice comment Christy!

Fenders…they really help keep the side of the boat from getting beat up if you come in too hot, wind blows you against the dock or other boat wakes push you against the dock. Easy to loop around cleats through hawse pipes and deploy before you attempt to dock.

Practice…the thing most people neglect and the real key to the whole thing. Taking an hour and just simple practice maneuvering the boat on a quiet weekday with few or no people launching and loading. Then with a little practice you look like a pro on the weekend.

You should also probably do a video on showing how to prepare your boat while not blocking the ramp…ie preparing it in the launching loading area instead while sitting on the main ramp while everyone else gives you the stink eye.

Here’s a helpful tip about boat ramp mistakes/issues to keep in mind when launching: https://saltstrongdev.wpengine.com/articles/top-5-boat-ramp-mistakes/

Nice video being a trailer sailor till I moved to a Port Charlotte canal home. The only thing I do different is one long continuous line from front cleat to the rear one. That way one end of one of the ropes will not come out of your hand. Tight lines and stay healthy.

Thanks for making time to leave the helpful comment Thomas!

Would it really be so hard to use apprpriate nautical terminology (bow, stern, lines, etc.)?

I went with the more basic working assuming that a majority of the people who need this lesson most of all mostly likely don’t relate to those terms.

I just feel that if the basic terminology is ditched at the level of an elementary lesson like this, folks new to the sport may not learn the language of boating at all, or even come to think that it is unnecessary or elitist. Then they will be unprepared to gather information from standard sources such as boating magazines, the CFR, the NAVRULES or even ATON pamphlets. Fishermen should set the example as competent and safe boaters.

Great video Luke, I think back to the first time I let my (then) teen-age son park our bass boat on the hard side of our slip. I will remember his 35 years ago comment. “Where’s the brake,” he was coming in a little hot, so I told him it was in his right hand (throttle). Many years later fishing with two naval officers on their boat, the Warrant Officer had another comment I will never forget, he said, “It’s impossible to dock a boat too slow.” Thanx chief, looks like Luke pays attention, I know I do.

But, I do enjoy watching the antics at the ramp with the week-end warrior!

Thanks for making time to leave the nice comment!

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Check out Moscow’s NEW electric river trams (PHOTOS)

Water transportation has become another sector for the eco-friendly improvements the Moscow government is implementing. And it means business. On July 15, 2021, on the dock of Moscow’s ‘Zaryadye’ park, mayor Sergey Sobyanin was shown the first model of the upcoming river cruise boat.

The model of the electrical boat with panoramic windows measures 22 meters in length. The river tram - as Muscovites call them - has a passenger capacity of 42, including two disabled seats. The trams will also get cutting edge info panels, USB docking stations, Wi-Fi, spaces for scooters and bicycles, as well as chairs and desks for working on the go. The boats will be available all year round, according to ‘Mosgortrans’, the regional transport agency. 

Passengers will be able to pay with their ‘Troika’ public transport card, credit cards or bank cards. 

The main clientele targeted are people living in Moscow’s river districts - the upcoming trams will shorten their travel time in comparison to buses and other transportation by five times, Mosgortrans stated. 

As the river trams are being rolled out, Moscow docks will also see mini-stations, some of which will also be outfitted with charging docks for speed-charging the boats.  

Moscow is set to announce the start of the tender for construction and supply in September 2021. The first trams are scheduled to launch in June 2022 on two routes - from Kievskaya Station, through Moscow City, into Fili; and from ZIL to Pechatniki. 

“Two full-scale routes will be created in 2022-2023, serviced by 20 river trams and a number of river stations. We’ll continue to develop them further if they prove to be popular with the citizens,” the Moscow mayor said .

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Vacationing couple rescued from water in south carolina after following gps, driving off boat dock.

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A couple in their 60s is safe after a near disaster in Isle of Palms, South Carolina, thanks to the quick actions of strangers.

The vacationing couple accidentally drove their vehicle off a marina boat dock and into the water below due to GPS confusion, leading to a dramatic rescue.

Christopher Sollom, general manager of the Islander 71 restaurant, described the scene.

"One of our bartenders, Johnny, a former lifeguard down in Myrtle Beach, didn't even hesitate; he jumped right in and was able to pull two people out of the car before it submerged into the water," Sollom told WCIV-TV .

Another employee, known as "Cash," joined Johnny in the water while other staff members sprang into action.

"By the time that I got down here, it was completely submerged," Sollom said. "So, that was a matter of 60 seconds from when someone got me upstairs to when I ran downstairs."

After the initial rescue, Sollom helped the woman to safety.

"The lady was very frantic; you could tell she was trying to gather everything to get out, so that’s where we assisted her from there," he added.

Fortunately, the couple had left their windows open, making the rescue easier.

The couple is doing well and plans to thank their rescuers.

On Sunday, a dive team from the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office helped retrieve the submerged vehicle.

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'didn't even hesitate': lifeguard-turned-bartender rescues couple from sinking car in south carolina.

Police say confusion with the couple's GPS led them off the marina's boat dock and into the waters.

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A couple in their 60s vacationing in South Carolina narrowly escaped disaster thanks to the quick actions of strangers.

"Their quick actions are the reason those two are alive today," said Christopher Sollom, general manager of Islander 71.

Sollom helped rescue the couple in Isle of Palms.

"One of our bartenders Johnny, a former lifeguard down in Myrtle Beach, didn't even hesitate, he jumped right in and was able to pull two people out of the car before it submerged into the water," Sollom said.

Another employee named Cash joined Johnny Himmelsbach in the water while other workers at the Islander 71 restaurant sprang into action as well.

The Isle of Palms Police Department said confusion with the couple's GPS led them off the marina's boat dock and into the waters.

"By the time that I got down here, (it) was completely submerged underway, so that was a matter of 60 seconds from when someone got me upstairs to when I ran downstairs," Sollom said.

Sollom said he helped get the lady to safety after the initial rescue.

"The lady you know was very frantic, you could tell was trying to gather everything to kind of get out, so that's where we assisted her from there," Sollom said.

Sollom said fortunately the windows of the vehicle were open, making the rescue easier.

The couple is doing fine and plan on thanking their rescuers.

Sunday, a dive team from the Charleston County Sheriff's Office was able to help retrieve the submerged vehicle.

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