Limited spaces, wind affecting the slow movement of the boat, the fear of touching other vessels. The “performance anxiety” related to mooring is one of the most common feelings for boat owners, especially for the less experienced. The belief that a good sailor is judged by their harbor maneuvers plays its part, throwing the skipper (naturally endowed with a good dose of self-esteem) into a partially unjustified state of anxiety. The result of these combined factors is often a boat going sideways, complete with shouting and insults between boat owners.

The mooring techniques for Mediterranean-style berthing are diverse and require considerable experience. The wind direction is a fundamental factor that affects the maneuvers to be executed. The same boat in the same port requires different operations depending on the mooring situation.

In this case, however, we’re not dealing with the technical aspects of mooring, focusing instead on the psychological aspect of the matter. How can we reduce stress during such a delicate moment?

The first indication, obvious but always useful, is that you must arrive prepared for mooring. Equipment must be ready, as well as the crew. Knowledge of the boat and the location are two additional elements that can help manage the maneuver with less emotional strain. Carrying out all preliminary operations correctly is the best way to have a calmer approach, knowing you won’t have to improvise anything.

Before even thinking about mooring, it’s important to get information about the port or anchorage where we’ll be performing the maneuver. If we’re going to a familiar place, there’s no problem. Otherwise, we should consult pilot books and online photos. Considering the weather conditions, when we can choose, it’s better to opt for a windward berth, with the wind blowing as little as possible on our beam.

Let’s now consider the boat we’re steering. If it’s not our usual one, it’s necessary to test how it responds to maneuvers while we can still afford small mistakes. Let’s evaluate how it loses way and what effect the propeller creates in reverse. It’s advisable to perform these small tests in confined waters, or at least in an area with some reference points. Let’s do a 180-degree turn to verify how it turns at slow speed and how it responds to forward and reverse thrust trying to make it rotate on its axis. Returning to the wind discussion, let’s evaluate its effect on the topsides when beam on.

Prepare mooring lines and fenders, and get the vessel ready. It’s important that the deck is clear of any sharp objects or potential hazards like towels and cream containers. If we have a handheld VHF, it’s time to bring it to the cockpit to communicate with the marina when assistance is needed. Before starting maneuvers, remember to remove anything hanging from the lifelines, both to avoid getting it dirty with dock lines and because it increases wind resistance, leading to unwanted boat responses. In case of strong gusts, it’s better to close the bimini and spray hood.

When the boat is set up, prepare the crew. A skipper with clear ideas knows the maneuvers to perform and instructs their crew with clear and precise orders. Shouting, suddenly changing plans, and creating confusion is the best way to mess up the entire maneuver.

Each crew member must be instructed with detailed directions. The positions to take and the role to occupy must be clear to everyone, even demonstrating movements with gestures. We then inform guests on board that during mooring they must not walk around the deck or risk interfering with maneuvers in any way, even by just blocking the view. Their place is in the cockpit or below deck, at least for the few minutes needed to complete all operations.

Finally, the skipper must be ready to not make mistakes and overturn the initial plan, unless necessary. The maneuver should be completed according to what was planned, and sudden changes in command can only create tension, with negative results for everyone. The moves to follow must be well imprinted in our mind, from the approach to propeller use, including the wind challenges.

Only at this point can we proceed calmly with mooring, aware of having done everything possible to face it without anxiety. Additional help can come from the dock hands ashore, professionals in this type of maneuver. Although, it’s worth remembering, the final decision always rests with the skipper. With all the responsibilities that entails.