Mastering Docking Made Simple: The 90-45-22 Approach Explained

Graham Sharp
Jul 28
2 min read

sail satori marblehead docking a sailboat with the 90-45-22 approach

Docking a sailboat can be one of the most intimidating parts of boating, but it doesn’t have to be. At Satori Sailing School in Marblehead, we teach sailors how to handle their boats with confidence in every situation, including docking. One of our favorite techniques, the 90-45-22 approach, uses your boat’s prop walk to your advantage, making docking smoother and more controlled.

Why Docking Feels Difficult for Many Sailors

Many sailors feel stressed when approaching a dock, especially in tight spaces or windy conditions. That’s why we teach practical skills that build confidence. One key factor is understanding prop walk, how your propeller naturally pulls the stern one way or another when in reverse. Instead of fighting against it, we teach you how to work with it.

The 90-45-22 Docking Method

The concept is simple:

Approach at 90 degrees to the dock while maintaining slow, controlled speed.
As you close the gap to just under one boat length, adjust your angle to 45 degrees, shifting into neutral.
Finally, when it’s time to align, use reverse gear and your boat’s natural prop walk to “walk” the stern in and settle cleanly alongside the dock — that’s the 22-degree finish.

This method allows you to dock with control and confidence, even in unfamiliar boats.

Watch the Video

Check out this short instructional video featuring Satori Sailing instructor Graham Sharp demonstrating the approach. You’ll see how understanding prop walk and using these simple angles can make docking stress-free.