Mediterranean episode today: let’s demystify mooring with a stern line!
It is a weighted line attached at one end to the quay and at the other to a mooring line, which is itself secured to a ground chain running along the seabed perpendicular to the berths.
It is used to retrieve the mooring line, which will then be secured to the bow cleat of the boat. There is one on each side of the vessel. When under tension, these lines prevent the boat from pivoting on its axis or drifting backward. Note that it is also possible to moor your boat bow-first.
Stern lines eliminate the need for finger piers, thereby saving space. This is undoubtedly why they are found in almost every Mediterranean port, where the demand for berths is highest.
Conversely, it would be impossible to install them in areas with a high tidal range.
As always, prepare your maneuver well in advance by anticipating potential issues: wind direction, the presence of other boats nearby, etc. Also, prepare the crew by having them wear gloves to avoid injury from mussels (which love stern lines) and using portable fenders.
Next, execute the maneuver itself properly, and finally, secure your mooring well so that your time in port is truly relaxing.
