What Is a Boat Fender?
Boat fenders are cushioning materials used to protect a boat when it is laid up against a quay.
Also called fenders, they are installed on either the quay or the boat. There are a variety of types available, so it is important to select one that matches the size of the boat and the shape of the quay.
The materials used are tires, rubber, and urethane for boats with thick exterior panels. Marine grade PVC is suitable for pleasure boats with thin exterior panels. There are types that can be attached with anchor bolts or suspended with strings, and all types can be easily installed or relocated.
Uses for Boat Fenders
Boat fenders are selected to protect the hull from scratches and to match the hull and the location where the boat is to be berthed.
- Twin-eye fenders
This type of fender is used by attaching ropes to both ends of the boat. They are low cost and available in sizes M to 3L. - Center Eye Fender
Used with a rope through the boat. Can also be attached vertically. - Drop eye fender
Used by hanging it up. Easily used on both shore and boat. - Air dock bumper
This type of bumper can be installed on a private pier or the like. Can be landed on shore without fenders. - Dock Wheel
Attached to the corner of a pier, the wheel rotates to soften the impact. - Inflatable fender
This type of fender was developed to withstand the impact of large vessels. - Styrofoam Barrel
Styrofoam floats used for cruising where there is no floating pier or when berthing in a fishing port.