When leaving the dock under the influence of wind or current towards the dock, which line should you cast off first?

When leaving the dock while being influenced by wind or current, it is essential to first cast off the stern line. This is because it allows the boat to pivot away from the dock, enabling it to gain better control as it moves away. By releasing the stern line first, the boat's stern will swing out into the open water, making it easier to maneuver away from the docking area and avoiding any potential collisions with the dock or other vessels.

If the bow line were released first, the wind or current could push the bow toward the dock, making it harder to leave smoothly and potentially causing damage. Similarly, freeing the midship line would not effectively control the angle of the boat's departure and could lead to an awkward exit. Therefore, releasing the stern line first is the best practice for safely departing from the dock under these conditions.