On Sun, 18 Dec 2005 18:03:41 -0000, "News f2s"
wrote:

The
common mooring there is bows or stern to, when the rode is usually
stretched off the ground already. I've had many a quayside
discussion (complete with bits of string and jugs of beer)
explaining why the surge from a ferry caused an anchor to snatch
out.

When you are bow (or stern) to the quay you really don't want a lot of
stretch in the system however. Better to use more scope if needed to
get the required holding power, or a better anchor.