Slipped Lines

The act of releasing a vessel’s mooring lines in a controlled manner, allowing it to depart from a berth or dock without assistance from shore personnel.

Slipped lines describe both the action and the result of releasing a vessel from its moorings. When a vessel is ready to depart from a dock, quay, or pontoon, the mooring lines that secure it to the shore are either cast off by crew on land or, in the case of slipping, released from the vessel itself. Slipping lines is a method often used when no shore assistance is available or when a quick departure is required. Slip lines are typically led through bollards or cleats on the dock and back to the vessel, allowing the crew to retrieve them on board as they are released. This ensures that no lines are left behind and the vessel remains self-sufficient. The process must be carried out carefully to maintain control of the vessel and avoid sudden movement due to wind, tide, or current. Slipping lines is a standard procedure in both leisure and commercial marine operations, and it requires coordination among the crew to ensure all lines are released in the correct order to prevent fouling or damage.