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Mooring to a Buoy from a Catamaran | The skill you need for the Dodecanese Islands
March 8, 2026 · 10 min · 7K views · D
Catamaran approaches mooring buoy in Dodecanese waters
What this video covers
Alexandros Retsinas demonstrates a technique for securing a catamaran to a mooring buoy, emphasizing a diagonal line configuration to ensure stability and safety.9:11 When approaching the buoy, the crew prepares two mooring lines on the bow cleats, avoiding the use of a bridle or the buoy's own light-duty pickup line for primary attachment.0:53 The crew maneuvers the vessel to bring the buoy’s heavy-duty eye or ring within reach, then secures the primary lines directly to the boat's bow cleats.5:38 By running the lines diagonally from the cleats to the buoy, the load is distributed evenly, preventing the lines from chafing against the hull or each other.9:11 This method allows for a quick departure by simply releasing the lines from the cleats.3:43 Fenders remain deployed during the process to protect the hull from potential contact with the buoy or other vessels.8:03 Proper line management and clear communication between the helm and the bow are essential for a controlled, single-handed or crewed approach.4:10
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