What should you do if you are docking and wind or current is pushing you toward the dock?

Approaching slowly parallel to the dock is the best option when wind or current is pushing the boat toward the dock. This method allows for better control and maneuverability. By maintaining a slow speed, you can make adjustments to your course more easily, using the rudder and engine to keep the boat aligned as you prepare to dock. This technique also helps reduce the impact with the dock, allowing for a smoother and safer docking process.

If you were to stop the boat completely and wait, you risk losing control, especially if the wind or current continues to push you toward the dock. Turning the engine off before docking could lead to a loss of steering control and can make it challenging to navigate and adjust your position at a critical moment. Accelerating quickly toward the dock would likely lead to a crash or significant damage, as high speed makes it harder to steer and stop on time, especially with the external forces acting against you. Therefore, approaching slowly and parallel provides the best approach to safely docking under such conditions.