What Size Boat Fender Does A 26 Foot Boat Need

What size fender do I need for my boat? And other fender facts

3 years ago
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A fender (not to be mistaken for a bumper) is a padded or inflatable absorber, which stops a boat from bumping into another boat, or a mooring or a dock, or anything else.

They work by absorbing stupor on bear upon, which prevents the hull from being damaged. Here's what else you should know.

In that location are different kinds of fenders

In that location are many different kinds of fenders , so nosotros've listed some of the more popular ones:

Cylindrical fender – these tend to have an 'eye' on both ends (or simply one). It hangs downward vertically, with a rope, which is secured by a bowline knot through one of the optics (or if the fender is horizontal, a figure 8 stopper knot goes through both eyes).
Round fender – a soft vinyl fender ofttimes used on larger boats that have flared (concave) bows, and where the dock is a great distance abroad. Fishing boats and other commercial vessels oft use them. (Also good for raft ups and for mooring buoys.)
Centre rope cylindrical fender – this fender can hang down vertically or information technology tin can be positioned horizontally. It has a hole in the eye, which is threaded through with a rope.
Flat fenders – are foam buffers (which means they're not inflatable) typically used on smaller vessels. Simply secure the flat fender to the gunwales, and it will protect your gunkhole from impact.

What size fender practice I need?

Hither are some tips for finding the right fender size for your boat.

Forget buying a heap of small fenders, become the size correct and have less – they'll be more effective and easier to ready.
As a general rule of thumb, for every v feet of a boat'south length y'all'll need one fender an inch thick (in bore).
Small vessels may require just ii fenders, while boats over 40-feet may need over six.
When inflated correctly (you can use a basic needle pump to do and so), a fender should feel like a footy when it is squeezed.

How to dock and raft with a fender

Exercise no adhere the fender untilrafting or docking.
Why? Because the fenders may get stuck on other boats or pilings, which could cause the Captain to lose control.
Make sure the coiffure is holding the line of the fender. Inquire them to move the fenders around, when necessary.
One time your gunkhole has docked (or rafted), secure the fenders. Practice this using a clove or skid hitch knot.
E'er hang your fenders at the lowest attachment spot, most the widest point of your beam.
Only secure them to lifelines if a low spot, such equally a cleat, is not handy.
If you're unsure how many fenders to hang, always hang them so your gunkhole does not clash or rub bulkheads or difficult pilings.

Other fender facts

If your vessel is going to exist in one spot for a long time, make sure your fenders (and any extra rope) is non in the water. This will stop barnacles and algae from building upwardly.
Docking nigh a piling? Hang fenders in a horizontal position to stop them from rolling. Or, lay a fender board across a pair of cylindrical fenders and so put that across the boat.
If you're hanging a cylindrical fender with a centre rope, use a one-half hitch or figure 8 knot on either side of information technology. That fashion the fender won't slide out of information technology'southward position.
E'er cheque the tidal range when yous dock. This will prevent harm to the hull or lifeline stanchions, should the tide get out.

Need cover, but in case?

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