If you've just bought a new boat, it may take some time to learn to handle it smoothly. One area where new owners often run into trouble is with docking. It's easy to cause damage that will need expensive boat repairs, so to prevent this, follow these five tips.

How to Dock Your New Boat

1. Go Slow

Take the time to do the job right. Being in a hurry will cause accidents. In particular, you should move your boat with small, short bursts on the throttle — running it continuously may cause your boat to accelerate faster than you expect.

2. Use the Wind & Currents

Out on the water, you can't avoid having your boat pushed around by the wind and current, so instead learn to use them. Take note of the prevailing wind and currents at your home dock, and plan your approach so the current will help carry you rather than interfering.

3. Know How to Tie Up

You can save yourself a world of frustration by practicing throwing your lines, a skill you'll use each time you tie up at the dock. Also, practice the type of knot you'll use — for example, a bowline knot, which is sturdy but easy to untie.

4. Keep It Running

Keep your engine on while you secure your boat; if you start to drift, you'll be able to correct it more easily. Restarting your engine wastes seconds, during which your boat may drift and hit obstacles.

5. Don't Tie Your Boat Too Tight

You shouldn't expect your new boat to stay snugly against the dock. Water rises and falls, and if your lines are too short, the vessel can end up dangling from them, potentially causing major damage. Leave some slack in your line for the boat to move. If you need to bring it in closer, step on the line to use your body weight instead of pulling.

If you'd like to buy a boat, visit Petzold's Marine Center in Portland, CT. Since 1945, they have sold used and new boats and made repairs for owners across the Middlesex County coastline. Their experienced staff offers Sabre, Back Cove, Regal, and EdgeWater craft, among others. To see their inventory, visit their website, or call (860) 342-1196 with any questions. You can also reach their Norwalk location at (203) 838-4523 or the Wakefield, RI, location at (401) 846-8484.