How can you compensate for bank suction or cushion?

To effectively compensate for bank suction or cushion, applying increased throttle while simultaneously using right rudder is advantageous. Bank suction occurs when a vessel experiences a vertical component of flow caused by the bank or shore pulling water towards it as the boat moves forward. This can create an unbalanced force on the vessel, generally causing it to want to turn towards the bank.

By increasing throttle, you enhance your vessel's speed and ability to effectively counteract the centrifugal forces at play, which can help maintain a stable position in the water. Applying right rudder works to counter the effect of the bank's suction; it turns the stern of the boat away from the bank and helps neutralize the tendency to be pulled in. The combination of these actions creates a balanced maneuver that allows the captain to safely navigate alongside the bank while minimizing the risk of drifting into it.

Other strategies, such as decreasing speed, may lead to a loss of control and increase the effect of bank suction, while simply changing course may not necessarily address the specific forces acting on the vessel while near the bank. Thus, the combination of throttle increase and right rudder is the most effective way to mitigate these forces and maintain safe navigation.