SINGLING UP
Singling up is usually a routine operation until the night when from a warm, quiet wheelhouse you underestimate the force of the wind or current. It took several lines to hold the ship alongside. Walk out on the wing, feel and see the conditions, and really think about how many and which lines should be taken in.
Ideally the lines are taken in systematically while the ship is held in position without overloading the remaining parts. Which lines should be left until last? This depends on conditions, no rule of thumb. Basically, it is preferable to leave short lines until last, a short headline and spring forward, a short stern line and breast line aft. Run a bight or two in place of a single line if the wind and or current are strong.
Short lines hold the ship alongside more and still keep her from moving forward or aft, and they can also be brought aboard quickly especially important aft since the propeller should be cleared as soon as possible so the engine can be used.
As ships get larger, winches are geared down to handle the higher loads and are slower. It is important that the crew be informed if the last lines must come aboard fast. The mate can leave the shortest line until last, and lead it to the winch before letting go to get the propeller clear quickly.
