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Regarding Jared Sherman's comment, I believe some of the old
(1960s-era) British sub-chasers (called frigates?) could almost pivot
about themselves, fairly rapidly, by reversing one screw and keeping
the other going forward, perhaps also with way on.  Speculating,
perhaps they had independently steerable twin rudders, or even extras
forward of the screws.  Perhaps some of the fellows with shipboard or
engineering (physics) experience can enlighten us.

This whole topic of marina navigation is a new one for me.  It very
clearly needs careful contemplation!  In the old days (1960s!), many
harbors were less crowded and boats on single moorings.  Much easier to
slip on or off than a pier, especially one that is approached head on
or stern first after a 90-degree turn.  No effect of the pier and
neighboring boats blocking the current.  I think life also was easier
then because many boats had no motors, so no prop walk in reverse.
Although I remember one fellow, for some odd reason, hoisting all sail
on a 72' ketch when pointed out harbor with a nice 15-20 knot breeze
also blowing that way, and a bit away from the dock.  About ripped the
dock off.  Now that 72 footer did have a motor.

Fred Hebard

   

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