Dock Lines

Ross · May 2, 2010

SWL is an objective value based on breaking strength and a safety factor and the type of loading. Tying you boat to a piling doesn't require as large a safety factor as lifting. You have several dock lines and one anchot line.
The advertized numbers are just different ways to say the same thing.

higgs · May 2, 2010

i think under normal circumstance, half inch is more than sufficient for a 30 footer. If you feel conditions dictate more, then you do need to go to 5/8. Three strand is easier to splice into loops, If you are worried that 5/8 three strand won't hold your boat, you need to find a new marina.

Prime Time · May 2, 2010

Cheap option

I bought some Samson 3 strand line on ebay and cut to length my lines.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Anch...oatQ5fPartsQ5fAccessoriesQ5fGear#ht_500wt_940

Take a look at this. Very cheap and plenty strong for your boat.
I've bought from this guy before and he is very reliable.

gfrazzle · May 2, 2010

If you want double braid, try here: http://www.cajunrope.com/

Excellent quality and great pricing.

Stu Jackson · May 2, 2010

What do the other guys around you do?

Prime Time · May 2, 2010

Basic stuff

I see no reason to use a braided line if $ is an issue.
My dad never throws anything away and has 20 yr old nylon 3 strand docking lines (they are not used frequently).
The 3 strand have more stretch and are better for dock lines from that perspective, with less shock loading on your boat.

catsailor · May 2, 2010

Prime Time said:
I see no reason to use a braided line if $ is an issue.
My dad never throws anything away and has 20 yr old nylon 3 strand docking lines (they are not used frequently).
The 3 strand have more stretch and are better for dock lines from that perspective, with less shock loading on your boat.

There is really ZERO risk that any line over 1/2" is going to fail due to strain, so all of the suggestions are valid. They will only fail due to chafe. You can lose a line in a few days if routed poorly, or they can last for > 10 years.

There are many choices:
http://sail-delmarva.blogspot.com/p/chafe-gear.html
http://www.boatus.com/seaworthy/hurricane/selectchafe.asp
http://www.westmarine.com/1/1/19841-chafe-guard-3-8-5-8-line-size.html
...and every catalog.

Also, after you place the new lines, look very closely the next few weeks to see where there is wear. Then either reduce the movement or guard it.

How you tie also matters; spring lines really help reduce motion and wear.

Stu Jackson · May 2, 2010

Nereussailor said:
How long can I expect lines to last?

I've had 1/2 inch breast lines last over 15 years, and counting. I installed snubbers, those rubber black things, on the bow lines. I replaced the stern lines 10 years ago. 1/2 inch line is fine for my boat (34 feet), but we have a pretty sheltered marina.

YOU have to make these choices with the help you've been given, but I think 5/8 inch is overkill for my size boat. 3 strand's just fine, why pay more for "looks?"

zeehag · May 2, 2010

i prefer 3 strand--besides less costly to purchase, is a longer lasting and better looking after some wear line---goooodluck--also has better stretch factor-----may stiffen up in salt water but that is remedied with fresh water cleaning occasionally....

Barnacle Bill · May 3, 2010

Nylon 3-strand is the way to go for strength on a budget (I am echoing a comment from above). Nylon is extremely strong and stretches and that is what you want in a dock line (less wear on your boat's hardware). Sea Choice is one company that offers 3 strand nylon dock lines in various sizes and lengths with loops at a very reasonable price. But, one thing not mentioned that I recall is that you should also match the line size to your cleat size as well as the weight of the vessel. Hopefully the cleat is adequate for the size of the boat (but not all manufacturers might not know that).

Gudenuph · May 3, 2010

Nereussailor said:
I need to buy some new dock lines, and am on a little bit of a budget. I don't want to skimp, but I don't want to go too far overboard either. I'm looking at 5/8" Pro-set 3 strand line from Defender. It's $.90 ft. The SWL is 11,100lbs. The Premium 3 strand is $1.29 ft and says minimum tensile strength 12,200 lbs. What is the difference between SWL and minimum tensile strength? is the extra 1,100 lbs difference comparable, or does the wording just make it a sales pitch? Also, does anyone have a better outlet for 3 strand? Is double braid woth the extra money?
My boat is a 1983 30' hunter tied to pilings in a marina where there are tidal changes, currents, and wind shifts, so I need something that is strong and will last.

Dave

Dave
My preference would be to use TWO lines each for bow and stern using 3/8 and 1/2 inch nylon braid or 3-strand. The 3/8 would not jerk the boat like heavy line and would suffice for normal use. The 1/2 inch line would parallel the 3/8 inch line and have just a bit more slack and take no strain under normal conditions. It would then be free from chafe and serve as the storm back up and not continuously jerk the boat. I have used two 3/8 inch lines for years on a 10,000 # sloop at a fairly well protected dock with no problems. When rafting the reason for lighter lines is obvious when the wake from a power boat rolls through.
Just my thoughts, George