Which docking approach involves sailing within several boat lengths, steering into the wind, dropping the mainsail, and then drifting down to the dock?

• A. Windward side approach
• B. Leeward approach
• C. Head-on approach
• D. Side-on approach

Answer: (A)

Approaching from the windward side is the technique that gives you the most control as you come in to dock. When you’re on the windward side, the wind hits the boat from the side, so you can use steering to place the bow into the wind as you get close. Dropping the mainsail removes the sail power, which lets the wind and current gently push the boat toward the dock rather than driving it forward. This controlled drift lets you line up and ease the boat in without loud or abrupt contacts.

In contrast, other approaches are less forgiving: a leeward approach puts you on the downwind side where the wind can push you away from the dock; a head-on approach sends you straight toward the dock with sails full, making it hard to slow or steer; a side-on approach leaves you parallel to the dock with limited ability to control forward motion. The windward approach described—sail power reduced, steering into the wind, and letting drift do the rest—offers the smoothest, safest path to a gentle docking.