How should you approach a dock when the wind or current is pushing you away from the dock?

Approaching a dock when wind or current is pushing you away requires a technique that allows you to maintain control of your boat while minimizing the impact of external forces. Approaching at a sharp angle, around 40 degrees, is an effective strategy; it helps to manage the effects of wind or current on your vessel. By securing the bow line first, you can effectively align the boat parallel to the dock upon securing the bow, making it easier to subsequently tie off the stern line and stabilize the boat. This method proportionally distributes the force applied by the wind or current across the boat's hull, reducing the chance of a collision.

This approach also allows for more maneuverability, enabling you to navigate away from any potential obstacles or other boats that might be present near the dock. Other methods, such as approaching head-on could make it difficult to react to the wind or current, while slow approaches from the side may not provide enough control, and anchoring the boat may not be practical in the moment when you need to secure your vessel. Consequently, the angled approach is the best practice in this scenario, as it offers a blend of control, speed, and safety in docking conditions affected by wind or current.