How to Tie a Boat Fender

Last Updated on January 12, 2022

It is always important to use a boat fender when you are near any fluid surface or construction site. The boat fenders protect the boat’s hull from damage from other boats, submerged pipes, docks, and other structures.  In this article, we’ll explore the different steps on how to tie a boat fender.

It is crucial that the boat fender is properly attached to the back of the boat so it can support the weight of the boat as well as absorb any shock in order to avoid damage.

What is a Boat Fender And Why it it is Important?

A boat fender is a protective layer between your boat and another surface such as a dock or pier when tied up at a marina or resting on land. It is also great at preventing damage to your boat’s hull as it slaps against other boats while traveling down the waterway. 

The main purpose of this device is to protect your boat by absorbing shock caused by jolting impacts with structures protruding from the water surface or ground as well as physical contact with other vessels.

The fender’s ability to absorb shock is what makes it an integral part of safety precautions during docking and undocking. It prevents damage caused by collision which may result in holes, dents, scratches, or scrapes that could compromise the overall structural integrity of a vessel and its systems.

What to Look for in a Boat Fender?

When choosing a fender for your boat, there are many factors to consider in order to ensure total satisfaction. Some of these considerations include: how often the boat is used, where it is docked, how far it will travel while on water, and so on. 

The size of your boat should also play a big role in determining the correct fender to purchase. For instance, when you have giant boats that are going to go long distances, there would be a need for bigger and heavier fenders compared to smaller boats that travel shorter distances.

One last factor that could affect your decision of choosing a fender is price versus quality. The higher-priced models are generally considered better than those lower in cost due to their superior design and construction as well as more durable material used in manufacturing. 

We suggest investing in a high-quality fender because it may end up saving you money down the line by not having to purchase a lower-level fender that ends up getting torn or damaged.

While most boaters would rather focus on larger aspects of boat ownership such as the engine, flotation devices, and seating arrangements, it is also crucial to consider investing in some high-quality fenders because their ability to protect your boat from damage can directly increase the value of your vessel. 

Do not disregard this part of boat ownership just because it does not seem as significant as other parts of the craft; it could potentially save you money on repairs and replacements while ensuring that your vessel stays in top condition for years to come. 

Boat fenders are designed specifically to absorb impact along with shock so no matter what happens during docking and undocking procedures, there will be no possible way of your boat sustaining any damage.

How to Tie a Boat Fender

Follow these 7 steps to know how to tie a boat fender effectively:

Step 1:

The first step you should do is to place the fender in a proper position, usually on the starboard side of your boat. Then, make sure the boat fender is secured by lashing it tightly with a rope.

Step 2:

While holding onto the port side of your boat, grab onto one end of the cord and wrap around three times at least but four or five times would even be better before tying off to a cleat on deck. Make sure that both sides are evenly distributed so as not to cause a tilt balance.

Step 3:

Take another line and tie it directly from your bow (front) to an object behind you as well as an object near you which can include either another boat cleat or a piling. This is to make sure the fender does not shift around once you start moving.

Step 4:

The last step of tying a boat fender is to ensure that it is able to keep the boat away from other objects including but not limited to docks, rocks, and other boats. It should be able to stop at least 2 feet short of any structures in order for your vessel to have enough clearance.

Step 5:

If you want more versatility when using a boat fender, then keeping straps ready can help out significantly as these straps allow you to stretch them out further so they cover even more area on the surface of the water while resting or docked. Storing them over your gunwale or coaming (top of the boat) will ensure that they stay out of your way when you are not using them.

Step 6:

One important thing to note is that most people tend to secure the fender only at one part of their boat therefore it can cause an imbalance which in turn could lead to damages and injury. Make sure you follow this step thoroughly so as to prevent such accidents from happening.

Step 7:

The final step is to make sure your ropes do not become undone after securing a boat fender. When checking on them, always try pulling lightly first just in case your knots untie themselves unexpectedly before tightening more with other pieces of twine or rope. Also, use soft cotton rope as opposed to nylon or any other material that might be difficult to untangle.

Step 8:

If you want additional safety for your boat, then also consider installing a fender board or pads behind your boat fender line so that the force of impact is lessened even further. By doing this, it will allow you to tie off along a greater length from your bow all the way back to the stern depending on how far out you are planning on placing the pads themselves.

Keep this device away from sources of heat and direct contact with sunlight so check its condition periodically to ensure there are no signs of damage. If you see any hiccups in its structural integrity, then immediately take action before anything else happens since one small mistake at sea can end up costing you more than necessary in repairs for your boat.

How to Tie a Boat Fender – Conclusion

The bottom line is, if you own a recreational boat of any kind, it’s always important to protect it from bumps and scrapes while keeping it safely tied up when not in use. The protection offered by a well-made boat fender ensures both your comfort and allows for continued use of your watercraft.

It is also important to note that fenders come in different shapes, sizes, colors, and styles to suit the specific needs of each user. For example, some fenders may be designed for heavy use in waters that may contain debris or floating objects. Other fenders are made from materials that are more resistant to harsher weather conditions like saltwater and UV rays