Mary recently asked:
“Is it safe to use the swim platform to stand on while backing into a slip?”
“There’s a sign on our boat that warns not to stand on the swim platform while the motors are operating.”
Great question, Mary—and one that deserves more than a simple yes or no. What’s obvious to seasoned boaters isn’t always obvious to those just getting their sea legs, and we love that you asked. In fact, we’ve decided to expand our FLIPP Line docking procedure (see pages 17 and 37 in our docking lessons) to help others who might be wondering the same thing.
Safety First, Always
When docking, the Captain’s first job is to assess the situation and choose the safest place for the First Mate to be—and the safest method for them to use. That decision depends on:
- Weather and water conditions
- Type and size of swim platform
- Height difference between boat and dock
- Agility of the First Mate
- Ability of the Captain, First Mate, and crew
And let’s not forget: the Captain must always be gentle with the throttle—forward or reverse—especially when the First Mate is on the swim platform. Keeping the crew safe is priority number one.
The Goal of Docking
A successful boat docking means bringing the boat in smoothly and securing it without:
- Yelling
- Swearing
- Jumping
- Boat hooks
- Bionics
- Dock helpers
- Guesswork
- Or public embarrassment
And most importantly—without putting the First Mate at risk.
Where Should the First Mate Be?
In most cases, the safest spot is in the cockpit, using our FLIPP Line Stay-Aboard Procedure. But depending on your boat and whether the dock is fixed or floating, you might need to adjust. That’s where our FLIPP Line Step-Off Procedure comes in.
What about the bow? On many mini-cruisers, the side decks are too narrow to even get there. And if you do have bow access, the deck is often sloped and slippery when wet. Add low rails and awkward angles, and you’ve got a recipe for a First Mate doing a not-so-graceful swan dive.
Power Boats are shaped like a triangle; so, when the Captain brings the bow of a smaller boat in close enough to the dock to tie the line, it is difficult to judge how much slack to leave, so that when pulling the stern to the dock, it doesn’t bind in the middle—holding the stern several feet from the dock. On a larger cruiser, the bow is so much higher than a floating dock, that the First Mate can’t reach the 3’ – 6’ distance to tie to the dock.
And jumping? Just don’t! We never recommend jumping from the boat with a line. Too many things can go wrong—and suddenly you’re not docking, you’re rescuing.
The Swim Platform: Friend or Foe?
Swim platforms vary wildly:
- Narrow and awkward
- Wide and spacious (some up to 6 feet!)
- Split with outboard motors
- With or without
- Some with handholds transom gates that make sitting easier
In calm conditions, a wide platform with good handholds might be usable. But in wind or rough water? It’s a no-go. The platform becomes narrower with the extra gear and movement required, Sometimes, on some boats, visibility drops, and your footing can become slick.
If the Captain determines the swim platform is the best option, here’s what we recommend:
- One hand for safety, one for the job
- Use a handrail, cleat, or something solid to hang on
- If both hands are needed, use a safety tether around the waist secured to the stern rail or stanchion
- Stand with feet apart and knees bent for better balance
- Use hand signals, voice-activated headsets, or another communication method so the Captain knows the First Mate is safe
Every Boat Is Different
Our FLIPP Line Docking Procedure works effectively across almost all boat types, but docking is never one-size-fits-all. The Captain and First Mate must make decisions based on:
- Their boat’s layout
- The docking situation
- Weather and water conditions
- Marina design
- Their own abilities
So, Mary, thank you for asking a question that helps all boaters dock smarter and safer. We’re here to put the “ing” into boating—and take the guesswork out of docking.
Ready to Dock Like a Pro?
If this post helped you rethink your docking strategy—or saved your First Mate from an unexpected swim—pass it on! Share it with your boating crew, dock neighbors, or that friend who still thinks yelling is part of the docking process.
Want more tips that make boating
- smoother,
- safer,
- and lots more fun?
Check out our FLIPP Line Docking Lessons
Explore our collection of 30 boating books designed to put the “ING” into boating without the Drama
Stay aboard. Stay safe. And keep enjoying boating.
Check out Dawsons Docking Lessons.
- Click on the following links.
- Choose your boat type or drive system
- Then, click on the book covers for detailed information for each.
Power Boat Docking
Sailboat Docking
Pontoon Docking
Houseboat Docking
