Wisdom (?) from the Weather Channel:

[Ron20324]

http://www.weather.com/sports-rec/outdoor-beach-marine/docking-in-heavy-winds-20120328

weather.com/sports-rec/outdoor-beach-marine/docking-in-heavy-winds-20120328

 

[Rob2435]

I always wanted to try these methods but since I make it into the dock most times, I've never tried them.

 

[dlewis812]

"leaving when wind is pushing you towards dock"

read quickly however isn't their recommendation backwards (wouldn't you use spring off the bow, put in forward to bring the stern out and back out?)

 

[kappykaplan]

read quickly however isn't their recommendation backwards (wouldn't you use spring off the bow, put in forward to bring the stern out and back out?)

That's certainly what I'd do! Old adage: Keep clear astern.

 

[Gunni]

read quickly however isn't their recommendation backwards (wouldn't you use spring off the bow, put in forward to bring the stern out and back out?)

They describe springing the bow off using a stern line, which is a really great tool when singlehanding. You can pull this off from the wheel.

The other method of docking using a single spring line is a great tool also. Cleat off a line at the midship cleat (or primary winch), leave enough length to bring it back to a point near the wheel. Lead it fair outside the lifelines, and drape it where you can get it from the wheel. Make a slow approach on the dock and as you pass a dock cleat / pile drop it on. The line will pull tight, throw the wheel over away from the dock, leave in forward and the boat will snug to the dock and stay there while you rig you other dock lines.