my boat came from factory with a bow thruster, but installing one would be scary. Maybe not worth it, but it would change your life for the better at the dock.

Gene, are moorings available where you are? I find it much more pleasant to keep the boat on a mooring. If you're short on time you don't even need to go anywhere to enjoy your private island. This is the SE view from my mooring. Long Island is in the distance. Great spot to crack open a cold one and "chill".

Talking about chill, the boat's on the hard now -- just in time. A northeaster is predicted for tomorrow with 4+ inches of snow (about a month early for that). Normally this time of year I'd be in no rush to winterize but I left work early today to protect the fresh water system and heads. Did the engine too while at it, although it would take prolonged sub-freezing weather for that much mass to freeze (and this weather is an anomaly).