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What NOT to do when approaching a Mooring Ball

Avoid these mooring mistakes – and learn the correct mooring technique in this situation.

Mooring a boat should be a routine maneuver, but as this video shows, things can go wrong—sometimes with expensive and embarrassing results. In this clip, we see a power catamaran struggle to retrieve a mooring ball, ultimately colliding with another boat. While it’s easy to cringe at the mishap, it’s also a valuable learning opportunity.

The good news? Proper mooring techniques can prevent these situations entirely.

In this video, we’ll break down what went wrong and explain the correct steps for approaching and securing a mooring ball. Whether you’re a first-time skipper or an experienced boater, this quick refresher can save you from making the same costly error.

Let’s start by analyzing the mishap—and then dive into the steps to do it right. Watch the YouTube video below:

Key Points for What NOT to Do When Approaching a Mooring Ball

Introduction:

  • Highlight that the video reviews common mistakes made by boaters while picking up a mooring ball, using an example from the BVI.
  • Emphasize the importance of proper technique and situational awareness to avoid accidents.

Key Mistakes to Avoid:

Lack of Situational Awareness:

  • Always monitor the surroundings, boat movement, and conditions while maneuvering near a mooring ball.

Leaving the Helm with the Engine in Gear:

  • Never leave the helm with the engine in forward gear, even if you think it’s in neutral.
  • Check water movement relative to the boat before stepping away to confirm the boat is stationary.

Failing to Observe Before Taking Action:

  • Continuously assess the boat’s position and movement, especially when moving away from the helm.
  • Avoid distractions and focus on other boats and potential obstacles.

Attempting to Pick Up a Mooring Ball While Moving:

  • A moving boat makes it nearly impossible to accurately pick up a mooring ball.
  • From the bow, visibility is limited, making solo maneuvers highly challenging.

Ignoring Better Maneuvering Techniques:

  • A solo skipper should back up to the mooring ball from a downwind position for better visibility and control.
  • Use a pre-prepared line from a front cleat to secure the mooring pendant at the swim platform.

Unsecured Swim Ladder and Dinghy:

  • Ensure the swim ladder is stowed properly and the dinghy is secured to prevent it from swinging freely.

Conclusion:

  • These mistakes could have been avoided with proper training.
  • Recommend taking the Skipper Large Powerboat and other relevant courses to build skills and confidence in mooring techniques.
  • Reinforce that proper preparation and situational awareness are key to safe and successful mooring.

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Get started with powerboating with NauticEd’s FREE online Navigation Rules for Powerboats, or become a competent powerboater with the Skipper Large Powerboat Course – a comprehensive online powerboating course for beginner to intermediate powerboaters wanting to learn how to operate larger powerboats greater than 26ft. Or upgrade to the Bareboat Charter Master for Powerboats Bundle of online courses to also master multiday and near-coastal powerboating as well as charter powerboats on vacations.

Author

  • Grant Headifen

    My vision for NauticEd is to provide the highest quality sailing and boating education available - and deliver competence wherever sailors live and go.

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Last updated on January 9th, 2025