Southport Harbor is beautiful, but also crowded. To maximize space all boats are moored at the bow and the stern. This is also true of our Ideal 18 docks in that they are anchored at both ends. As a result they do not swing with the wind and/or current, and therefore the dock is rarely pointed into the wind as your leave and return from sailing. This poses a problem for sailors because a boat is most easily rigged when facing "head to wind" (bow directly into the wind) and a boat makes its safest approach back to a dock when gliding "head to wind" so one can slow down during the approach to the dock.
We solve this dilemma at PYC by trying to approach the dock head to wind just like you would a mooring. This is possible when sailing in any wind direction other than a northerly. Position yourself a few boat-lengths to leeward of the dock, and then point the boat head to wind upon approach. Furl the jib and luff the main by easing mainsheet and uncleating the vang. Keep the boat head to wind throughout your approach. Have the crew step onto the dock and clip a dock line to the bow. Do NOT clip on the stern until after the sails are furled. It is much easier to lower and furl sails while the boat is head to wind.
When sailing in a northerly it is more complicated. You can't approach from the leeward side of the dock because the golf course is where you'd want your boat to be. So, a recommended approach is as follows:
Get your boom topping lift clipped on as you sail up the harbor.
Sail to weather of the docks, go head to wind, and drop your mainsail. Then, sail a downwind course for your dock under jib only.
Roll the jib up when it is clear you have enough power to get to the dock.
Clip the bow on. Since the sails are already down you can clip your stern as well.
In a northerly some sailors actually do sail to the leeward side of the dock, do a tight turn, and approach head to wind, but you have to have strong confidence in your boat-handling for maneuvering in such tight quarters. Also, remember you cannot sail between a dock and the golf course because the anchor line will catch on your keel and rudder.