One of the most important pieces of onboard equipment are boat fenders. Fenders are instrumental in preventing damage to the hull of your boat. The fenders act as a barrier between the hull and the dock when approaching and when secured. As a new boater, it is important to know the facts on fenders and how to use them to your advantage. 

What Is The Purpose Of A Boat Fender

One of the most important pieces of equipment on a vessel is fenders because they help protect against damage. Boats, when coming alongside a dock or secured to a dock, are prone to scratches and chips. For this reason, the fender acts as a cushion to prevent the hull from making direct contact with the dock. Here is a more in depth details on the two purposes of fenders. 

Reduce Impact When Docking

Look I am not saying to drive full speed ahead as a method of approach when docking a boat. Fenders or not, in this situation, your boat will sustain damage. 

The fenders should be secured to the side of the boat before approaching the dock. Deployed fenders reduce the likelihood of the hull becoming scratched as you maneuver along the dock. 

Without a doubt, the fenders create a barrier so as the vessel moves forward or back, the dock structure is not making direct contact with the boat. 

I have seen a significant number of boats with dock rash, as it’s called from failing to utilize fenders when docking. Trust me; you’re going to want to save yourself time and money. The repairs are time consuming and expensive to fix. Instead, use fenders as they are designed to prevent this from occurring in the first place. 

Preventing Hull Damage While Docked

Don’t assume that the hull is at risk of damage only when approaching the dock. The hull’s of boats become nicked up even after the vessel is secured to a floating or fixed dock. 

For this reason, it is important to position the fenders at the height where the hull makes contact with the dock. 

Take into consideration wakes from passing boats, wind, and other factors that cause a vessel to while secured. The motion of the boat without fenders will dig deep scratches or marks into the hull. For this reason, remember to measure and secure the fenders in the proper position before departing the vessel.  

How Many Boat Fenders Are Needed 

Without a doubt, you don’t want to run short on fenders. However, the general rule of thumb is 1 fender for every 10 feet of boat that is at the waterline. 

However, it isn’t a bad idea to have an extra boat fender on hand. In some situations, you may need to position a fender in an uncommon place, depending on the docking scenario. On my 17 foot boat, I kept 3 fenders onboard at all times. 

In addition to needing extra boat fenders for unusual docking scenarios is the risk of losing a fender. I see fenders floating about on a regular basis. For this reason, I know that fellow boaters lost them along the way. Keep an extra on hand in the event you lose one while underway. 

Why Storing Fenders Is Important

Without question, if you don’t want to appear as though you are new to boating, stow the fenders shortly after departing the dock. 

Undoubtedly, leaving your fenders slung over the side of the boat makes you appear as though you are a rookie boater.

When you pull away from the dock, lift the fenders from the side of the boat. In addition to lifting them up and away from the hull, remove the line connected to the vessel. 

After the fenders are free from any connection point, I recommend placing them in an onboard hatch. Stowing the fenders in a hatch prevents the fenders from blowing out of the watercraft when traveling at high rates of speed. 

Importantly, bringing the fenders along with you is critical because they can be utilized at other docks. For example, if you’re going to a waterfront restaurant, in addition to the lines, have the fenders on hand. For this reason, you can deploy the fenders when docking elsewhere. 

New Boaters Make Sure To Use Fenders

As a new boater, it is critical to know the importance of boat fenders. The fenders are essential to protecting the shiny outer coating of the hull. I recommend doing everything you can to prevent nicks and scratches, not only for appearance but the cost associated with making repairs. Lastly, ensure to keep an extra on hand in the event a fender goes overboard while operating.