When mooring port side to, with a wind or current from astern, the approach should be made using an approximately ______º angle.

When mooring port side to, with a wind or current from astern, the approach should be made using an approximately ______º angle.

• A. 15
• B. 45
• C. 60
• D. 30

Answer: (B)

Approach at about a 45-degree angle to the dock. When you’re coming in to berth on the port side with wind or current coming from behind, this angle gives you the best balance between control and alignment. It lets you use the forward motion and the push from the wind/current to help bring the bow toward the dock, while you still have enough room to steer and maneuver the stern alongside smoothly. If you come in at too shallow an angle (much less than 45), the wind or current from astern can shove you directly into the pier, making it hard to arrest and line up. If you come in too steep (much more than 45), you’ll be far from parallel with the dock, requiring extra effort to swivel into position and you risk losing control. So about 45 degrees is the optimal compromise for a controlled, safe approach.

Approach at about a 45-degree angle to the dock. When you’re coming in to berth on the port side with wind or current coming from behind, this angle gives you the best balance between control and alignment. It lets you use the forward motion and the push from the wind/current to help bring the bow toward the dock, while you still have enough room to steer and maneuver the stern alongside smoothly. If you come in at too shallow an angle (much less than 45), the wind or current from astern can shove you directly into the pier, making it hard to arrest and line up. If you come in too steep (much more than 45), you’ll be far from parallel with the dock, requiring extra effort to swivel into position and you risk losing control. So about 45 degrees is the optimal compromise for a controlled, safe approach.