Approach the dock slowly and control the boat with short throttle bursts
Assign one person to handle bow lines and one to handle stern lines if possible
Place fenders between the boat and dock before contact
Stop the boat parallel to the dock and secure it with a temporary line if needed
Tie the bow line from the front cleat to the dock cleat or piling
Tie the stern line from the rear cleat to the dock cleat or piling
Tie a spring line to prevent the boat from moving forward or backward
Adjust the lines so the boat sits centered and does not rub the dock
Leave enough slack for tide, wake, and water level changes
Use a cleat hitch or other secure knot on each cleat
Double-check that all lines are snug and properly fastened
Recheck the lines after the boat settles against the dock