Choosing The Right Dock Line Size For Your 16-Foot Boat

Dock lines are essential items for boats, but they are often overlooked. When choosing the right size dock line for your 16-foot boat, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the duration of its use – will it be used on a permanent dock or temporarily when tying up at a restaurant or another brief stop? Secondly, the type of dock line – three-strand or double-braid? Three-strand dock lines are the most basic and affordable choice, ideal for temporary use, while double-braid dock lines are stronger and available in various colours. Thirdly, the diameter of the dock line – a rule of thumb is to have 1/8 of diameter for every 9' of boat length, with a minimum size of 3/8. For a 16-foot boat, this would mean using 3/8 lines. Finally, the length of the dock line – transient dock lines should be about 2/3 of the boat's length, so for a 16-foot boat, you would need lines that are about 10-11 feet long.

Dock line length depends on how and where you moor your boat

Dock lines are essential for mooring your boat safely. The length of the dock line depends on how and where you moor your boat.

Firstly, it's important to know that a properly outfitted boat should have at least six dock lines: two bow lines, two stern lines, and two spring lines.

The length of the lines depends on the size of your boat and the location of the dock. Bow and stern lines should be about two-thirds of the boat's length, while spring lines should equal the boat's length. For example, a 20-foot boat should have 13-14 foot bow and stern lines, and 20-foot spring lines.

It's also important to consider the distance between the boat and the dock. Docking lines need to be long enough to reach the dock with enough slack to allow for movement caused by tides, wind, and waves. The lines should be long enough to prevent the boat from hanging on the dock during low tide but not so long that the boat is allowed to sway and acquire damage.

In addition, the type of dock line you choose is important. Nylon lines are best for docking because they are lightweight, strong, easy to handle, and offer superior stretch. They also absorb shocks when wind and waves cause abrupt movements of the boat.

When choosing the diameter of your dock line, a good rule of thumb is to have one-eighth of an inch of line diameter for every nine feet of boat length. For example, a 20-foot boat should use a 3/8-inch line, while a 40-foot boat should use a 5/8-inch line.

Dock lines should be made from nylon

Dock lines are an essential item on board your boat and need to be strong and elastic to absorb shock loads. They also need to be resistant to abrasion, UV rays, and rot. This makes nylon, which has a good combination of all these qualities, an ideal choice.

Nylon has several characteristics that make it ideal for dock lines. Firstly, it is incredibly strong and very stretchy, which is important for absorbing shock when your boat moves at the dock. The elasticity of nylon means that when your boat surges against the dock line, the load is dissipated by the stretch of the line, rather than causing the line to snap or damage your boat.

Nylon also has excellent resistance to UV damage, which is important as dock lines are exposed to sunlight. In addition, nylon is resistant to rot and mildew, meaning it can be stored when wet if necessary. It also stands up to fuels and chemicals that are commonly used on or around boats.

Nylon dock lines are available in both braided and three-strand twist construction, each with its advantages. Braided nylon is stronger, easy to handle, looks good, and has better abrasion resistance than three-strand nylon. On the other hand, three-strand nylon is more economical, has more stretch, is easier to splice, and is less prone to snagging.

When choosing dock lines for your boat, it is important to consider the duration of their use and the conditions they will be exposed to. Permanent dock lines should be the strongest and highest-quality lines that will fit your cleats, as they will provide maximum peace of mind during storms. They should also be protected against chafe, which occurs when the lines rub against surfaces and cause wear and deterioration.

In summary, nylon is the best choice for dock lines due to its strength, elasticity, and resistance to UV damage and rot. Both braided and three-strand nylon dock lines have their advantages, and by choosing the right type of nylon dock line, you can ensure your boat is securely and safely moored.

Dock lines should have 1/8 of diameter for every 9' of boat length

Dock lines are essential for keeping your boat safe and secure. When choosing the right size, it's recommended that your dock line should have 1/8" of diameter for every 9' of boat length, with a minimum size of 3/8". This means that for a 16-foot boat, a 3/8" line would be the best choice.

For larger boats, it's a good idea to increase the line diameter by 1/8" for every additional 9 feet of length. So, for boats ranging from 20 to 29 feet, a 1/2" diameter line is recommended. If you have a 30 to 40-foot boat, a 5/8" line would be more suitable.

It's worth noting that some boaters prefer to use 1/2" lines even for boats under 20 feet, as stronger lines can provide added security. However, keep in mind that thicker lines might not fit properly on smaller cleats.

When it comes to line length, transient dock lines should be close to 2/3 of your boat's length when used on the stern or bow. For spring lines, the ideal length is equal to the length of your boat.

In addition to diameter and length, it's crucial to consider the type of dock line. The most common types are three-strand, braided, and double-braided nylon lines. Three-strand lines are more affordable, abrasion-resistant, and easier to splice, while braided and double-braided lines offer increased strength, better handling, and improved aesthetics.

Remember, nylon is the recommended material for dock lines due to its strength, stretch, and durability.

Dock lines should be colour-coded for easy identification

For a 16-foot boat, you will need a dock line with a diameter of 3/8". The length of the dock line will depend on whether you are mooring it at the stern or bow, or using it as a spring line. Transient dock lines for the stern or bow should be close to 2/3 the length of the boat, so around 11 feet for a 16-foot boat. Spring lines should be equal to the boat's length, so 16 feet for a 16-foot boat.

Now, onto colour-coding. While colour-coding your dock lines may seem unnecessary, it can be extremely useful, especially if you sail with inexperienced people. Colour-coding your dock lines can make it easier to identify and distinguish them from your neighbour's dock lines. It can also help you to identify the function and length of each line. For example, you could have one colour for the bow and stern lines, and another colour for the spring lines. Or, you could colour-code by length, having one colour for your 11-foot lines and another for your 16-foot lines.

Some companies that offer colour-coded dock lines include:

• Knot & Rope Supply: offers colour-coded end whipping for easy length identification.
• Denver Rope: offers a range of custom-coloured dock lines, including solid colours and combinations.
• World of Watersports: offers a 60-foot rope in various colours, including red, blue, and green.

So, if you're looking to make your docking experience a little easier, consider investing in some colour-coded dock lines. It might just be the splash of colour your boat needs!

Dock lines should be protected from chafe

While chafing cannot be completely prevented, it can be reduced by using chafe guards in critical positions. Chafe guards are placed wherever the dock line will rub against chocks, cleats, docks, pilings, or other dock lines. Chafe guards are made from abrasion-resistant materials such as nylon, leather, or rubber. They provide a protective surface that can withstand abrasion damage while safeguarding dock lines.

There are several commercial chafe guards available, such as the Fjord Chafe-Pro, which is a heavy-duty nylon webbing and Velcro system that has gained wide acceptance among professional mariners. Another option is the Davis Chafe Guard, which is made from single-skin polyester webbing with strips of Velcro. It is easy to install and suitable for situations where very light-duty chafe protection is desired.

In addition to commercial products, you can also construct your own chafe guards out of a pair of old jeans. It is important to ensure that the chafe guard fits your chocks and extends far enough to prevent rails and other hardware from becoming a secondary source of abrasion.

Frequently asked questions