Docking is the most stressful part of the day. Wind, current, and a crowded marina can turn a relaxing trip into a gelcoat-crunching disaster.
The right protection acts as your insurance policy. Here is how to armor your boat and your slip.
1. Fenders: The "1-Inch Rule"
A common mistake is buying fenders that are too small. The general rule of thumb is: 1 inch of fender diameter for every 4-5 feet of boat length.
- Standard Cylindrical: The workhorse. Hang them vertically from the rail.
- Round Buoys (Polyform): Great for boats with large flared bows or for rafting up against other vessels. They create maximum separation.
2. Dock Defense: Edging and Wheels
Your boat has protection, but what about the dock? Sharp wood corners are fiberglass killers.
- Dock Edging: PVC strips that screw into the side of the dock.
- Corner Wheels: These rolling wheels mount on the corner of the slip. If you catch the corner while backing in, the wheel "rolls" the boat into the slip rather than scraping the hull.
Browse Dock Edging & Corner Bumpers
3. The Tie Down: Cleats
Are your dock lines too big for your cleats? A cleat should be large enough to handle "locking" the line (a round turn and figure eights). If you are struggling to fit the rope, upgrade to a larger Stainless Steel or Galvanized Cleat.
