When docking with no wind or current, at what angle should you approach the dock?

Approaching the dock at a 20-degree angle is considered optimal for several reasons. This angle allows for better control of the vessel as you approach the dock, facilitating a smoother maneuver. A narrower approach angle, like 20 degrees, helps to maintain energy and momentum, allowing the operator to react quickly to any adjustments needed for safe docking.

Furthermore, at a 20-degree approach, you are positioned to effectively use your boat's steering and propulsion systems to guide the vessel into the docking area. This helps minimize the risk of overshooting the dock and allows for more precise handling when it's time to align the boat parallel with the dock.

In contrast, steeper angles such as 30 or 45 degrees may lead to increased difficulty in controlling the boat's trajectory, making it harder to judge the exact distance to the dock and potentially causing unwanted collisions or misalignment during the docking process. Therefore, the 20-degree approach is optimal for ensuring safety and efficiency during docking.