60. Docking Preparation: When to Set Lines and Fenders
Preparation Starts Early
One of the biggest mistakes boaters make:
👉 waiting too long to prepare
Lines and fenders should be ready well before entering a marina or tight space.
Lines First
Before approach:
- assign lines
- coil and stage them
- ensure they are ready to deploy
What About Fenders?
Fenders should be:
👉 ready on both sides
👉 but NOT deployed too early
Why Not Put Fenders Out Too Soon?
If fenders are out during approach:
- they can bounce you off the dock
- reduce control
- create awkward angles
Best Practice
- approach clean
- enter slip
- once positioned → deploy fenders
Final Thought
Preparation is everything — but timing matters just as much.