Handling the vessel
The Master balances propeller thrust and its transverse effect going astern, the rudder, and the wind and current on the hull to berth, unberth and manoeuvre, using springs and lines to pivot the vessel rather than fighting the elements with engine alone. In shallow or narrow water, squat and interaction demand reduced speed. Twin screws, bow thrusters and modern stern gear give more control, but the Master must know how to handle the vessel if one of them fails, because a berthing plan that depends on the thruster is a plan waiting to go wrong.
Coming to anchor
- Approach slowly, head to wind or tide, and stop the vessel over the chosen position.
- Let go with slight sternway so the cable runs out clear ahead of the anchor.
- Pay out a scope of at least 4-6 times the depth at high water; snub, and confirm she is holding.
- Set an anchor watch with dragging criteria and an escape plan; log the position and take clearing bearings.
WARNING — Have a plan for a thruster failure Modern aids make handling easy until they fail at the worst moment. Always have a way to berth or manoeuvre the vessel on her engine and rudder alone, and reduce speed for squat and interaction in confined water.
TIP — Slow, with an escape route A berthing approach made slowly, with an abort planned, beats a fast one that cannot be undone. Speed can always be added; it cannot always be taken off in time.