Just an update today. I achieve some success doing the following:-
Start the engine at 1000rpm
Remove the lines in sequence: 1st, Spring line, 2nd bow line 3rd stern line
Put the wheel to Starboard 1/4 turn
Reverse at 1000rpm
Boat starts reversing
Straighten my wheel
Put in neutral (Theoretically, neutral reduces prop walk)
Let it coast - seems going slightly to port anyways
Once clear, I do forward and starboard
All the maneuver is done at 1000rpm
I do NOT back up all the way out of the fairway.
In my dock , as you can see in the photo, I back out to the my stern port (the shore), once the boat clears my finger pier, I turn starboard and go forward out in my fairway.
Well, today, there was no wind and so it was fairly easy. I need to practice more to get a hang of it.
Another Nonsuch owner recommended that I change to Flex-O-Fold made in Denmark. Will consider it next year. For now, I just have to live with my 3 fixed blade propeller.
Hi Shirley,
Great to hear of your success. Experience is a great teacher, and in the case of boating it’s also fun.
A couple thoughts for you or others following this thread :
If there is wind on your stern when you start, the turn to starboard will be more difficult. With Soave I back out further than I need to before starting the starboard turn to make sure I have plenty of room for the starboard turn. If the wind is blowing you back toward your slip, you could get pinned without ample room to maneuver.
Maybe try the maneuver at 800 rpm ? On Soave I find with lower the rpm initial prop walk is reduced.
Fixed props provide consistent propulsion when maneuvering. With practice you can master docking with any style prop. Folding and feathering props are great for reducing drag while sailing, but I’m not sure how they would help with docking. I’m actually a little afraid to switch now that I’ve learned to maneuver with my fixed prop.
After the basics, there are advanced level of docking skills that are very rewarding to pursue. Learning the basics gave me real appreciation for watching experienced skippers maneuver their boats. Have fun and never stop learning.
Smooth sailing,
Rob
s/v SOAVE
NS33 #009
Cedar Point YC
Westport, CT