I finally may get a slip for my C22...need some tips

[kito]

I have either been trailer sailing or had it in "mast up" storage at a marina. I am going to look at a few slips this weekend. They are the kind that just has a main walkway with no fingers for side entry. Only pilings in front for the dock lines. I never had this type before. I'm looking for tips on how to initially set this slip up, especially a good way to get my front lines tied to the pilings without damaging my boat or others. Is it best to use a spring line setup?........piling lines to aft and aft lines to bow? What do you do with the lines when you head out sailing so you are able to retrieve them easily when you come back in?

 

[Scott T-Bird]

Sounds like you will have to get used to backing her in. You'll want the stern close to the bulkhead. I would set it up to tie off at 4 corners. Where are the front pilings? Out in front of your boat or back toward amidships ... or right next to the bow?

If amidships or at the bow, spring lines off the stern to the piles may be needed to keep your stern off the bulkhead. If out in front, spring lines may be less necessary.

Spring lines could be configured to act as a cradle when entering. You'll need to figure out a way to hook the lines up on the pilings so that can be hooked with a boat hook when you come back.

 

[svPelican]

In addition, you could add fixed guide lines permanently tied from the piling to the dock on both the port and starboard side. You could drape the dock lines over them when you leave, making them easy to retrieve when you return. And if you sail singlehanded frequently like I do, they can make getting into and out of the slip very easy in almost any wind condition. Just grab onto a guideline and pull. And as always, slow is the word when entering / exiting the slip.

Bliz

 

[Joe]

How are your new neighbors' lines organized? I think a friendly approach to someone who looks like they know what their doing would be the best way.... You could also discuss this with the dock master or marina manager. There might be some conventions the locals use that are particular to your location. Tides, winds, traffic, wakes... etc.