45 Degrees Sailingvideo
How to Spring Off with a Bow Spring - Sharpen Up Ep 21
13 April 2025 · 4 min · 10K views
What this video covers
Springing off a dock requires a long bow spring line to pivot the boat away from the pier when wind pins the vessel against the dock.0:17 Run the spring line from the bow cleat, outside all stanchions and fenders, to a bollard or cleat positioned near the aft quarter of the boat.0:29 With the stern line attached and the engine in forward gear, turn the helm toward the dock to push the stern in and pivot the bow out.1:01 A crew member must monitor a fender placed at the bow to prevent contact with the dock or nearby vessels.1:46 Once the stern clears the dock, shift the engine to neutral, centre the rudder, and engage reverse to pull the boat away from the pier.2:53 The length of the spring line provides sufficient time for a single-handed sailor to release the line from the dock and return to the helm before the boat loses momentum.3:13 Using two separate loops over the cleat allows for a quick release if a line jams.4:20
More from 45 Degrees Sailing
From 45 Degrees Sailing — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analysed video.
The Sailing Directory Newsletter
One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.