What size dock lines do you use?

[Im Lon 2]

I'm still in the process of getting my Q6 and was gathering a list of things needed while I'm waiting. I was looking at 1/2" double braid nylon for my dock line, and was told 1/2" my not work well with my cleats, and should have no issues using 3/8 line. My boat will mainly be trailered and only docked over not on rare occasions (vacation or possible a weekend here and there). The Q6 I believe is the same length as the Q7 (20'6"). Most sites state up to 20' use 3/8" and over 20' use 1/2". However, I do recall the cleats being some what small and want to make sure I have room for the fenders that will be on a 3/8" line.

One more question while your here.

What size bumpers do you use?

Thanks Lonnie

 

[Outsider]

Re: What size dock lines do you use?

I have a 22' Grady, 3/8" dock lines (and anchor rode), 5.5" fenders, many days and nights at the dock without problems. 1/2" stuff would certainly work, but overkill in my application. BTW, what's a bumper ... :facepalm:

 

[Im Lon 2]

Re: What size dock lines do you use?

:der: fenders. Lol.

 

[fishrdan]

Re: What size dock lines do you use?

However, I do recall the cleats being some what small and want to make sure I have room for the fenders that will be on a 3/8" line.

Are the fenders going to hang off the same cleat as the dock lines?

I got tired of messing with untying the fenders and just slipped the fenders onto my dock lines, with an overhand knot in the dock line to hold the fenders at the proper height. (Fenders are now permanently attached to the dock lines.) Works great on my boat as it holds the fenders at the correct height, whereas before the fenders hung too low.

Might not work well on your boat and dock situation, but thought I'd throw it out there...

I'm using 1/2" dock lines, hand-me-down from the first boat I bought 20 years...

 

[Im Lon 2]

Re: What size dock lines do you use?

Yes the fenders would be connected to the same cleat. I do wish there was a middle cleat as well. I have thought about getting fender clips (3 on each side), with the plastic clips (so I don't have to worry about this stainless steel ball flying around when trying to put them out and it hitting windshield and cracking it). I need to look at them because I don't know how durable they are.

As far tying the fender and the dock line together, I'm not sure how well that will work. I know where I can store my fenders at would be a huge mess also having the line in the same compartment..

 

[spdracr39]

Re: What size dock lines do you use?

I use 3/8 dock line and my fenders tie on to the rails not the cleats.

 

[Im Lon 2]

Re: What size dock lines do you use?

Hey spdracr.. Do you ever get to Greers Ferry? Beautiful lake. We try and vacation there once a year.

The Q6 I'm looking at does not have the rails.

 

[BoatDrinksQ5]

Re: What size dock lines do you use?

I have lines and fenders on the same cleat - no prob. typically just slip the little rope loop from the fender over the cleat, then put my premade loop on my dock line on the cleat.... then tie off on dock.

Seems most people like a loop on dock post...and twisteroo on the cleat, but I havn't been around many boats or docks with cleats (until I got my Q5). So I like just jumping on the dock with my line (already attached to cleat) and then tie off.

 

[Hashi]

Re: What size dock lines do you use?

I use 3/8 dock line and my fenders tie on to the rails not the cleats.

Same here. I use a small carabiner to clip on the fender around my rail. Makes it easier to install and remove.

 

[AgentJ]

Re: What size dock lines do you use?

I have the Q7, I use 1/4 inch for my fenders. It works well leaving plenty of room to tie off with 3/8 dock line. I have never had any issue with the lines coming off or not cinching down onto the cleat.