Boat Docking Question - Stern Lines?

Question

When docking in a shore slip, what are pros/cons of cross-tying your stern lines versus attaching them perpendicular to dock? I have a 37' trojan power boat with about 28,000 pound displacement. I was shown to cross tie the lines, but I notice the other boats in the marina tie their stern lines without crossing them.

Answer 1

I have a 48 Sportfish Cross tie allows you to bring the boat closer to the sea wall or dock for boarding> Also acts as a spring line when the tide rises & falls> And keeps it centered in the slip>If there are rear pileing then you can tie off on the side> My beam is 15' 9" so i cross tie>

Answer 2

the stern lines can be tied straight the bow lines can also be straight

i dont know the differance  big party boats dont cross there lines

Answer 3

This is an age-old question.  For floating docks there is an advantage to crossing lines, as it allows the boat to settle into the center of the slip, and giving maximum flexibility and strength for the dock-line.  However in some slips, where the boat is tied to pilings both fore and aft, you might have problems with shifts in tide and wind.  As an old hand at marinas I'd suggest you experiment with how you like to tie your boat up.  Sometimes moving one dock line makes s world of difference.  Not only when the boat is docked, but when your leaving or returning to the slip, especially on a windy day.