with the bowsprit protruding half way over the pier.

Another good reason to back into a slip.. The dock master is less likely to
object to the "undeclared" length of the bow sprit, if it is poking out into
the fairway than over the dock.

However, one disadvantages to backing into a slip that hasn't been
mentioned, is privacy..

When you stern to the dock, you can't leave your companionway open without
dock walkers peering in.

Steve
s/v Good Intentions