Docking and Anchoring Basics

with

Ben & Teresa Carey

Morse Alpha Expeditions

Learn practical techniques for docking and anchoring confidently in a variety of conditions

90-Minute Live Session

On Demand Replay Available

Live Q&A

Learn techniques for anchoring, including setting multiple anchors, finding a safe hurricane hole, and handling stuck anchors. We’ll discuss how to select the right anchor for varying seabeds, identify a secure anchorage, and manage scope, fetch, and holding ground—so you can get a good night’s sleep wherever you drop anchor. Learn fundamental docking techniques to help you navigate any busy fuel dock or tight marina space with ease. By understanding key principles like prop walk, steering in reverse, and holding position, you’ll gain the confidence to dock smoothly, even with a crowd watching.

FREE

Docking and Anchoring Basics

Online class overview

This online class is ideal for beginner to intermediate sailors, especially those who sail with a partner and are committed to a no-shouting docking experience! You’ll learn all the necessary techniques, plus proven methods for clear communication to ensure a smooth and confident docking and anchoring experience. We’ll also cover strategies for docking and anchoring when sailing solo or short-handed.

List of topics:

Selecting the right anchor for varying bottom substrates and conditions
Finding a secure anchorage and assessing for scope, fetch, and holding ground
Setting and adjusting anchor scope effectively
When to use chain versus rope rode
Advanced anchoring techniques: kedging, bow-and-stern anchoring, two off the bow, and clothesline anchoring
Finding a hurricane hole and planning for severe weather
Anchoring etiquette and standing anchor watch
What to do when your anchor is stuck
Docking fundamentals: understanding prop walk, using momentum, and steering in reverse
Holding position and maintaining control in adverse conditions
Using spring lines and breast lines effectively
Roving fender techniques for additional protection during docking
Rafting up to another boat safely and securely
Warping and springing on and off the dock
Clear, no-shouting communication techniques for docking and anchoring
Tips for shorthanded or solo docking and anchoring

Your Host

Ben & Teresa Carey

Teresa Carey and Ben Eriksen Carey are seasoned maritime professionals and co-owners of Morse Alpha Expeditions, a renowned coastal and offshore sail-training program. Teresa is a US Coast Guard licensed captain, educator, and accomplished media producer. Her experience includes captaining diverse vessels—schooners, motor yachts, sailing yachts, and even a lobster boat—and teaching for sea programs like Outward Bound. Teresa’s solo offshore sailing and her work as a science journalist, and experience teaching high school, college, and on-the-water enrich her teaching with practical and scientific insights. Ben holds a 200 Ton US Coast Guard Master's License and a 500 Ton Mate of Towing credential. His extensive maritime career spans schooners, tugboats, sailing and motor yachts, with expertise as captain, mate, and beyond. A lifelong waterman and marine biology graduate, Ben brings a deep understanding of seamanship and safety to his instruction. Together, Ben and Teresa have sailed thousands of nautical miles, co-founded Morse Alpha Expeditions, and produced engaging sailing media including podcasts, like the Morning Muster Sailing Podcast, and documentaries. Their combined hands-on experience and passion for education make them exceptional instructors for this navigation rules online class.

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Online Class Registration

@ 4:30 PM PT / 7:30 PM ET (90 min)

Regular Price

ASA Member Price

On-Demand Access

All registrations include unlimited on-demand access to the recordings of the live online class. So if you are unable to attend live you can still register and watch at your leisure.

ASA MEMBER DISCOUNT

American Sailing Members can claim their discount in the Member Portal. If you’re not a current member then for only $59/year you can join or renew today!