If you’re new to boating, tying up your boat for the first time can be intimidating. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! Our team is dedicated to educating you on proper tying-up procedures, gear, and more. Our friendly hosts are available to answer any questions you may have.
We understand that everyone starts somewhere, that’s why we’ve put together a short video to help you familiarize yourself with the process. By following our tips and tricks, you’ll be able to confidently tie up your boat in no time!
Anchoring Instructions
1) Prepare your boat: Before approaching the line, it is always best to go ahead and prepare your boat by securing the fenders to your approaching side and attaching throw lines to the front and rear cleats.
You should have at least 100 FEET of anchor line. The cove is about 35 feet deep, 100 FEET provides barely enough line to set your anchor properly and help to continue to hold down the line.
One fender on the back rear cleat and one fender towards the middle of the boat will usually provide a great starter placement if you are unsure where to place the fenders on your boat.
2) Find your spot: As you come into the cove, signal to us that you are wanting to tie up. If someone is already there, they will let you know which side of the tie-up we would prefer for you to go on!
3) Lower the anchor: Once you are about 3 boat lengths in front of the line, lower the anchor to the bottom of the water. Make sure the anchor reaches the bottom of the lake before proceeding.
4) Line up where you tie up: Slowly start to back up, approaching the other boat carefully, keeping a safe distance.
5) Have lines ready: As you get close to the line-up, have the lines we prepared in a previous step ready to throw to the other boat.
6) REAR CLEAT FIRST: Secure the Stern (REAR cleat FIRST)
Once tightened, inform the person up front that you are finished.
7) FRONT CLEAT SECOND: Secure the Bow (FRONT cleat SECOND)
8) Set the anchor: This is very crucial- Tug slowly on the anchor line, letting it back out a little bit each time you tug. Repeat 4-5 times. As you tug on the anchor line, it will help dig the anchor into the sand. Once the anchor is firmly set, tie off the anchor line to the boat’s bow cleat using a secure knot.
9) Check your position: Make sure your boat is in the desired position and not drifting or dragging.
If you do not have any of the necessary items to tie up when you get to the cove, let someone know and we will be happy to help accommodate any new guests!
A HANDY TIP FOR REMEMBERING WHICH SIDE IS PORT, IS TO REMEMBER THAT PORT AND LEFT HAVE THE SAME NUMBER OF LETTERS.
