All you have to do is take your time & let the wind & current help you,

and that does require coming in on the proper side for the conditions.


Rob


**************

Not sure about you, but I usually prefer to go upwind and upstream. I
find it easier to maintain control when applying a bit of power to
overcome moderate wind or current
than to hope the wind or current doesn't slam me into the dock. My
personal version of "help" from the wind and current is a steadying
force rather than unwanted pushing and dragging beyond the point where
I hope to stop the boat.

One exception: And this may be where Jim H thinks he observed somebody
"walking" a single screw beam-to. If I can catch a moderate wind
blowing directly onto the dock in a side tie situation it's always fun
to stop a few feet away and simply let Mama Nature
plant the fenders against the bull rail in a flawlessly orchestrated,
simultaneous kiss. Ther bow blows in slightly faster than the stern- so
there's a slight angle required at the stop for perfect execution. It
does impress the dock gawkers. :-) Downside to this, of course, is
that it is then tougher to get off the dock unless the wind changes. By
coming in upwind to the other side of the dock, (when that option is
available) it is a lot easier to clear the dock on departure since,
(unless it changes), the wind will help blow you clear of nearby boats
until you have sufficient room to manuever.

Lots of variables. Every docking is a new puzzle to solve.