CHAPTER 6
Course steered
Stream
Tidal stream
Direction of boat over ground
Ready-use transit
Other factors Tide and current Where a current is running, it is essential to head into the berth up-stream unless, for some reason, you are obliged to come in stern first, in which case you will approach up-tide but making sternway. In either case, the same rules apply.
When berthing in strong currents, it is vital to bear in mind that the boat may not be going where she is pointing. Pick up a transit in the berth by lining up a bollard with something in the background, then keep the two objects in line as you approach. Adjust speed accordingly and don’t be afraid of placing the boat almost parallel with the berth, then ‘ferry-gliding’ in with plenty of way on through the water, but moving sideways over the bottom as the current tries to sweep you backwards. Blowing on When a strong wind is driving you onto a berth, a light boat – especially one with little inherent draught – will suddenly blow hard onto it when you reach the low-speed stalling point. Only by getting to know her can you predict with any certainty how violent this is likely
to be, but it will happen to any boat given enough breeze. In general, keep as much way on as you dare then blast it off with astern propulsion when almost on top of the berth. This demands serious confidence in the engine and gearbox. If you have doubts about them, either go slow and prepare for a messy arrival, or exercise the seaman’s option and go somewhere else. Blowing off The same rules hold good for blowing off as on, with plenty of way being the answer if you must come alongside. When the gale makes this impossible, a sailing boat can often ‘back up’ to the wall going astern, sending her most agile crew member ashore with a line. Once one rope is on, a second can be passed and the boat hove alongside. Coming ‘head-up’ to the wall is a better option for a motor vessel which may well have more power and less windage, but the sailing yacht’s natural tendency is to lie with her quarter or even her stern to the wind, so at slow speeds it is best not fight her.
MANUAL OF SEAMANSHIP | 73
Boat handling
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