Boat Handling

The rules of the road apply to all vessels large and small, but handling your boat around large commercial vessels requires more attentiveness than just following the rules.

Inland waterway cruising often involves passages through multiple locks. Here’s how to handle them.

Inlets are a gateway to adventure, but without preparation and local knowledge, they can be downright scary.

Part II: Communicating with bridgetenders, understanding opening schedules and maneuvering in close quarters.

Bridges can be a bit intimidating, and judging from the number of scrapes or damaged timbers we see on fender systems, there is good reason for the concern.

If you’re trying to learn the basics as a new boater, or even if you just need a brushup, this is a good way to get started.

Disorientation is a real phenomenon in boating, especially during docking maneuvers.

Handling the lines while docking at a marina is a skill as important as handling the boat itself.

Far too often, marina accidents happen because boaters plan for wind while ignoring current.

If you address the dual challenges of communication and sightlines, docking becomes a whole lot easier.

Safely picking up a mooring will put you in the heart of harbor scenes that only boaters can enjoy.

Just because you’re out boating doesn’t mean you’re improving your skills on things like docking.

If you're having trouble with docking skills, the problem may be anxiety.

Moving from a monohull to a powercat requires some practice. A bareboat charter is a great way to get it.

Once you learn to make use of your boat’s sliding stern, close-quarters maneuvering will be far easier.