Hi Jim! I had the same idea to make it this way. this method will be practical as long as we are in our home base (as you said) but won't help us while cruising the med.There a many ways to berth a boat without using those cleats.
For our home berthing, we use a pre-done line that can be looped over the stern cleats, by hand or pole, from the dock.
Jim...
Thanks
Udi.