How-to
Lesson: 1
95-45-20 docking technique
by Captain Paul Sullivan
American Sailing School
The following content was adapted from a post made by SeaPeople user Captain Paul Sullivan. Captain Paul is an American Sailing Master Instructor and co-founder of First Reef Sailing School in Boston, MA.
Today was all about docking drills with students at Charlestown Marina. We focused on the 90-45-20 docking method for monohull sailboats—designed to help sailors use momentum, prop walk, and line handling with confidence.
Whether you're new to docking or looking to refine your approach, this step-by-step breakdown has you covered.
STEP 1: 90° – Perpendicular setup
Approach the dock at a 90° angle, aiming the bow roughly where your stern should land.
Engage idle forward, keeping your speed slow and steady.
Shift into neutral when you feel confident you have enough momentum to glide in.
Adjust for wind or current drift as needed.
Pro tip:
Say out loud:
“I have enough momentum to get the rest of the way there.”
That’s your cue to shift into neutral. The goal is slow → controlled → steerable.
STEP 2: 45° – Mid-Approach & Reverse Setup
Turn the helm to close in at a 45° angle to the dock.
Aim for the forward half or midpoint of your slip.
Shift into idle reverse to slow forward motion.
Watch for prop walk—your stern will begin to swing in.
Hold the 45° angle until you're about half a boat length from the dock.
STEP 3: 20° – Final Glide & Alignment
Adjust your angle to around 20° as you get close.
Your bow should now aim just forward of your target slip.
Begin a gradual increase in reverse thrust to stop the boat while enhancing stern swing.
🎵 Think of it like a reverse crescendo—slow down smoothly and steer with control.
Crew tip:
Crew should step onto the dock — not jump! Brief them ahead of time on which cleats to lead lines to.
Most cruising monohulls: Stern line first → then bow → then spring line.
Captain tip:
Stop the boat with your engine, not your dock lines. Beware of well-meaning “dockside helpers” — If they grab or tie a line without knowing your plan, it can ruin a perfect landing.
⚠️ Especially dangerous: Tying the bow line forward of center while you're still moving
SeaPeople is proud to partner with American Sailing affiliates like First Reef Sailing School to offer this series of educational tips. If you're interested in learning more, visit SeaPeopleApp.com/ASA or locate your nearest ASA school on the Explore map in the app.
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