PRACTICAL SEAMANSHIP32 http://www.yachtingmonthly.com JANUARY 2016step guide to
stress-free
In Mediterranean ports, more often than not stern-to mooring
you will find yourself mooring stern-to a quay, held off by your anchor and on by stern lines.
For many it’s an unfamiliar process, but set up correctly and it shouldn’t present any problems
Approach facing aft Look around youGive yourself spacePrepare the boatDangle the anchor10(^4) It’s easy to focus only on the quay but stay aware of what’s going on around you. Where are other boats’ anchors? Are there lines or obstructions in the water? How is the wind affecting your boat? 5
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Go round to the other side of the wheel so you are facing aft and steer ‘like a car’. It’s easy to get confused looking over your shoulder. Don’t forget where your bow is – take regular glances over your shoulder.
The more space you have, the better, so take a long run-up. Make sure the boat has fully stopped before going astern and give the boat time to pick up steerage way. Don’t worry about being lined up yet.
You won’t know what sort of berth awaits, so rig fenders on both sides before you get into harbour as it’s normal to rest against other boats. Switch the windlass on and remove the anchor retaining pin.
As you come into harbour, lower the anchor so it dangles just above the water. When the time comes to drop it, you want it to go down quickly. If not, you’ll lose your perfect placing before it hits the bottom.