Maneuvering a Motor Boat Laterally Through Sideways Ferrying Techniques
Mastering the Art of Ferry-Gliding: A Guided Approach to Sideways Boat Maneuvering
In the realm of boating, a fascinating technique called ferry-gliding has risen to prominence. Jon Mendez, Motor Boat & Yachting's in-house expert, elucidates this method in his latest guide.
Ferry-gliding essentially utilizes the power of tidal currents or river flow to propel a vessel sideways, often without the necessity of oars or engines. The term "ferry-gliding" originates from an age-old river ferry practice, where boats were guided sideways by harnessing the flow of water.
To implement ferry-gliding, first, align the boat with the flow (bow-first is usually preferred due to its pointed shape), and angle it across the flow. One side of the boat will receive more flow than the other, creating an imbalance that propels the boat sideways. The steeper the angle, the greater the sideways force, but be mindful of the flow also pushing the boat backwards. Counter this backward movement with small nudges of ahead or astern to maintain a purely sideways motion.
Smaller rudders may require a more delicate touch when controlling the angle, while larger rudders allow for finer adjustments. Most boats retain control via the helm and clicks of gear, either ahead or astern to manage the angle of attack.
Our Duchy 27, with a long, shallow keel, a single prop, and a moderate-sized rudder, demonstrates controlled ferry-gliding at slow speeds in "ahead." In "astern," the rudder offers some control, but the single shaft-drive boat tends to push the stern to port, making the technique somewhat unpredictable. Therefore, Mendez suggests ferry-gliding primarily when the bow faces into the wind and/or tide to minimize unintended maneuvers.
To initiate ferry-gliding, position the boat facing into the tidal flow, as indicated by the back eddies and smoother water at the stern of moored boats. Turn the wheel to starboard, causing the port side to face the flow more, resulting in a crab-like sideways motion to starboard. The flow will also push the boat astern, so apply a click of ahead to maintain a stationary fore and aft position while continuing to glide sideways.
Increase the angle for more sideways force, but be cautious as the boat may move quickly. To slow down, simply turn the wheel to port to reduce the angle of attack. When ready to exit, turn the wheel to port again, facing the starboard side into the flow, and maintain the fore and aft transit using clicks of ahead.
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A sports yacht, with its long, shallow keel, single prop, and moderate-sized rudder, can perform an artful form of sideways maneuvering called ferry-gliding at slow speeds, demonstrating the power of tidal currents and river flow in propelling it sideways with incredible precision. Enthusiasts of luxury speedboats will appreciate the intricate details of ferry-gliding as a unique skill to master and an exhilarating way to explore various waterways, as taught by Jon Mendez in Motor Boat & Yachting magazine.
