Docking Question for Chaparral 240 Signature (or 215 SSi)

[Seadoggy2415]

I am considering buying a 2006 Chap 240 Signature for my retired father who is 72 years old. This boat seems to fit the bill of being able to hold some of his grandkids for cruising/fishing on the river plus the roomy cabin will be a nice spot for an afternoon nap. I was all set to pull the trigger on the sale when the marina manager mentioned that this boat (as well as the 215ssi I had also looked at) would be almost impossible for my father to dock by himself. He explained that it was quite tricky to climb out onto the bow through the windshield to tie up the front of the boat at the dock. I am looked at every boat manufacturer imaginable trying to find the right combination of deck space and cabin space without getting into a 30'+ boat. Can anyone weigh in on this issue - preferrably someone that might not be a youngster anymore ? Is it really that dangerous to climb up the cockpit stairs and stabilize themselves on the bow without going over the railing ? I really appreciate any input people can give me - as I said, I've never owned a boat so this is not something I would have even thought to be an issue. Much thanks

 

[crabby captain john]

Re: Docking Question for Chaparral 240 Signature (or 215 SSi)

I'm a 65 year old disabled vet. I also have a cuddy. I keep a 160 qt cooler at the gunnel to use as a step. When I arrive at the dock I get the stern line on snug. Then a little gas will force the bow to the dock. The 25' bow line is stretched back -- I get up on the cooler, then dock and tie the bow down. If wind is working against me I may put a boat hook on the dock to grab the boat or dockline if needed. have done it that way for years. Try it yourself and if you think it works for your dad,, give hime a few practice trys and you may be surprised

 

[Silverbullet555]

Re: Docking Question for Chaparral 240 Signature (or 215 SSi)

I'm not a youngster and I don't have a cuddy, but there are other ways to dock a boat. Get a stern line on and give it some gas with the wheel pointed straight or turned to the dock and it will suck into the dock. Spring lines can help tremendously as well.

Is dad experienced in docking boats? If so, take him with and see how he feels.

 

[Seadoggy2415]

Re: Docking Question for Chaparral 240 Signature (or 215 SSi)

Thanks for the input. It sounds like it is possible to dock the boat without climbing onto the bow. My father is experienced with boats (sailboats at least) so I'm sure he could figure out a way using your suggestions.

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Docking Question for Chaparral 240 Signature (or 215 SSi)

I don't EVER go onto the bow of my boat to dock it....
As mentioned get the stern hooked and tie the rest from the dock....

Another great solution would be a floating boat lift... drive it on and flip a switch

 

[MH Hawker]

Re: Docking Question for Chaparral 240 Signature (or 215 SSi)

Its called a pontoon boat,