|
Our
particular system of bow berthing with port and starboard ¾” mooring
lines, creates some challenges when arriving and departing the berth.
During those times in a crosswind, it is possible for the boat to fall off
on the adjacent boat or its associated mooring lines (even a bigger
problem if it catches on the propeller!).
To
that end, I came up with this device which I manufactured in my basement
workshop to address the problem. Approximate cost: $30.00
The
unit is attached to the starboard stanchion. (I only have need of the one
unit, as winds on the port side are unfavourable in our conditions, so I
am probably not on the boat during these periods.)
When
entering the berth (Figure A), it is simply a matter of picking up the
starboard mooring line and dropping it immediately behind the roller. You
are then free to move aft, and pick up the mooring loop for attachment to
the starboard stern cleat. This permits a fore and aft securing of the
boat in a crosswind and prevents it falling off into the adjacent
berth/lines.
Before
departure, the starboard mooring line is put behind the roller as in
Figure A, and all bow lines are released. Once all stern lines are clear
and the boat is moving aft, the starboard mooring line is running freely
forward, up and around the roller. When the bow reaches the triggering
buoy (Figure B - attached to the mooring line near the stern of the boat
when it is tied up), the triggering buoy activates the release plunger,
dropping the roller 110 degrees, and causing the mooring line to be thrown
overboard, leaving you free and clear to depart.
Because
of being attached to the bottom of the inboard angled bow stanchion, it is
well inside the top rail, and consequently does not represent a snag
problem when docking next to a wharf.
John
Pike
"II Chez" |
