FAQ | Dock Line & Fender Lines | Line Selection

Dock Lines & Fender Lines

Nice dock lines make a difference. Having the right sizes on hand will keep you sane while tying up your boat. Use the chart and the information below to determine exactly what you need.

Ideally, you will have at least two (2) bow/stern lines and two (2) spring lines on board. Reference the diagram below to learn the difference.

The cleats on your boat are designed to work with appropriately sized lines. Lines that are too big for your cleats can cause problems and make tying up difficult.

You choose length/size based on your boat size and the application. You want a length that will give you maximum flexibility without creating unnecessary or cumbersome extra line.

Step One: Choose the Right Diameter

Boat Length

< 27'

28'-35'

36'-45'

Line Diameter

3/8"

1/2"

5/8"

Step Two: Choose the Right Length

Boat Length

< 27'

28'-35'

36'-45'

Bow/Stern Line

10 ft

20 ft

25 ft

Spring Lines

15 ft

25 ft

30 ft

Bow / Stern Lines vs Spring Lines

Bow / Stern Lines

These lines firmly secure and hold the boat in place at the dock. They attach at both the bow and stern of the boat the adjacent dock cleats.

Spring Lines

These lines keep the boat parallel with the dock. They attach diagonally from a cleat at the boat’s center to dock cleats located near both ends (bow/stern) of the boat.