Since we always hear about problems with vendors and products, I thought I would share a good experience. I keep my boat at a fixed (not floating) pier, so adjusting lines for the tides and getting the fenders right was always a pain. Vertical fenders don't work because they just get pushed aside by the pilings. I did use fenderboards but they are not terribly convenient. Several of the other boats in our little marina use mooring whips and a few years ago I also adopted them and they have been a terrific benefit. They protect the boat well, even in strong winds, and make it a snap to arrive or leave, even when shorthanded or solo. Last week I found that one of the whips had broken. No damage to the boat. I was not sure how long I had the whips but called the company, Mooring Products (800 277 WHIP) to ask about it. The president, Gordon Swire, answered the phone, explained what likely happened (the whips are not as strong when twisted and the boat needs to be held reasonably steady fore and aft) and offered to send me a free replacement and gave me a detailed explanation of how to avoid problems in the future. I did not know when I had bought the whip and whether it was still under warranty and neither did he, but he did not hesitate to send out a replacement by Fed Ex. I have already recieved and installed the replacement, but I felt the group should hear a good story about a vendor (with whom I have no affiliation other than as a satisfied customer). Ted Weitz S/V Gossamer Wings Beneteau 323