On a related page,
http://www.videos.sailingcourse.com/...pring_line.htm

"A forward spring line is placed from the stern of the sailboat to the dock. In
reverse gear, the sailboat is slowly backed. The spring line prevents the
backward motion of the boat and swings the bow away from the dock. One may also
use the rudder to vary the direction of boat thrust, to aid in holding the boat
to or in swinging the boat away from the pier. "



"Rich Hampel" wrote in message
...
Go to http://www.videos.sailingcourse.com/pivot_turn.htm