Dipping The Line
The title says it all. If you have any more suggestions, post them in the comment box below.
1. When fueling-up or loading, move your boat from the fuel dock or loading float as soon as you are done. Do not exceed the time limits without the dock master’s permission.
2. Keep your speed down when entering. Not disturbing your new neighbors will keep them happy.
3. If you use the head, use your head: ensure that it goes into your holding tank, not overboard.
4. Stow your lines, cords and hoses neatly and don’t have them cross the dock if you can avoid it. They are tripping hazards, especially at night.
5. Don’t stow gear on the dock. It’s a tripping hazard and an obstruction to those trying to move carts, coolers and other supplies down the dock.
6. If possible, don’t let your bow extend out over the dock. It is a hazard, particularly if the anchor is protruding. Learn the use of spring lines.
7. Don’t leave food or garbage out in the cockpit or on the dock: it attracts cats, rats, roaches and flies.
8. Don’t board another boat without permission.
9. Many might not appreciate you cranking Led Zep or Jimmy Buffet (What’s wrong with some people?! :)) on the stereo, or the sound and exhaust smoke of your generator in an otherwise peaceful setting.
10. Shut off electronic equipment when you leave your boat. Nobody wants to hear a VHF radio squawking into the night.
Takeaway: Tie your boat up correctly for the situation. If you are unsure how, ask a dock boy, or one of the other boaters: they’ll be glad to help, since if it breezes-up, its their boat a poorly-secured boat will bang into.
