Hi Rob,
I have been docking boats, some small, some large, since I was 8 years
old and am 51 now. I always get the butterflies. I just shows that you
are very careful.

If your 32 footer is giving you trouble, try some practice. Anchor the
boat, and when stable, drop a couple of buoys with a rope between then
to simulate the dock. And try docking on that. Once you get that one
"down" move the setup so current and winds affect you.

I almost never use more then idle throttle in docking. The exception is
docking perpendicular with the current. I may have to throttle to get or
maintain headway. Always dock bow-into current.

In still waters, use a lot of "neutral". Thrust only if you need a nudge
in a different direction. Setup your drives in the correct position
before applying a ~small~ burst of thrust.

A good boat hook and springer line will help too. Use the boat hook to
drop a springer with a bowline loop over a dock cleat or piling.

If you must back into a slip, always have a person at the stern as a
lookout. You cannot see the "swing" or "distance to" of your transom
from a the pilot's wheel! Call on the radio and try to have a dockworker
assist you.

I hope these hints help,

Capt. Frank

Rob wrote:
Is it just me or does everybody get knots in there gut every time they have
to dock?

I Have had boats up to 22 feet for a long time, but end of August I bought a
32 footer, with twin inboard outboard engines. WOW it sure a lot tougher
than I expected.

I dock in a boat house, which you would think would be relatively
easy..Wrong trying to keep it straight and steady I find quite difficult.

I've heard some people say "don't touch the wheel"
others say "idle speed only"

any pointers to help regain my confidence would be very much appreciated,
please remember I have an I/O twins.

Thanks