Looking for the Best Dock Lines? Checkout This List of the Finest Dock Lines!
Boats are a symbol of sophistication and class. Owning a boat makes you stand apart from others. There are many types of boats, personal, professional, commercial, fishing, and pleasure boats. No matter what the boat is for, the general consensus is boats are cool.
If you own a boat, first, Congratulations, and second, you need to read this article fully.
Today we are looking at the best dock lines for your boat. We will review the high-quality dock lines that many boaters and other people with boating experience have used and found to be the most useful.
We will discuss everything on dock lines, what ropes are perfect for dock lines, what type of build is ideal for dock lines, and we will give you a small buyer’s guide. We will answer the internet’s frequently asked questions about the best dock lines.
9 Best Dock Lines Reviewed: Our Top Picks
These boat dock lines will cater to your docking needs 100%. So, if you need a dock line for their vessel, we recommend reading this piece.
Obcursco Premium PWC Dock Lines
This dock line is made with 1/2inches of solid, thick marine grade double braided Synthetic rope (Polyethylene) with stainless steel fasteners. This double braided docking line comes in 7 feet and 14 feet length, with a spliced 10 inch eyelet on one end and a 316 stainless steel, rust free, spring loaded, durable clip. This dock line comes ready for use.
The load capacity of this dock line is 2200 pounds. It can withstand saltwater as well as it can withstand freshwater. It is resistant to rot, saltwater, sunlight, mildew, and UV ray. Chemical and oil spills are no problem for this dock line.
The dock line has a foam chafe guard to prevent friction and thus damage. The foam chafe guard helps the dock line to float if you ever lose it in the water, it will float.
The material and fastening material gives you a higher stretch than other dock lines and better shock loads absorption than other lines.
The package weighs just over 1 pound and is only 13 inches x 9.5 inches x 1.5 inches in size. The product has a warranty option. This is a multipurpose dock line that you can use for Jet Ski and other outdoor activities.
Pros
- Multipurpose and right dock lines
- Resistant to rot, saltwater, sunlight, mildew, and UV ray
- Eyelet and spring loaded hook installed
- Stainless steel fasteners can be used to hang boat fender
- Great value for money
- Available in four colors.
Cons
- The rope doesn’t float
- Size can be an issue
Regatta Marine Essentials Double-Braided Nylon Dock Line
This Regatta Marine Essentials docking line is the perfect docking line for your small to medium boats. The material for this docking line is nylon and plastic.
Regatta dock lines come in a four piece pack. Each piece is 15 feet long and 3/8 inches in diameter.
These double braided black nylon dock lines have a 12 inch eyelet or eye splices for dock and boat cleats on one end. The material and the build make it a very durable, long lasting dock line for your small to medium boats.
The bitter end is burned to prevent fraying and chafe.
These durable nylon dock lines can be used as bow and stern lines if needed. The four parts make it easier for you to dock at a convenient place. You can use these as transient dock lines or permanent dock lines. These ropes are very durable and long lasting because of the intrinsic properties and stretch capacity of double braided nylon ropes. The product is fade resistant, weather resistant, and because of the color, it looks macho. These double braided nylon lines can be used as bow lines and transient lines. You can use this as a dock line for permanent slip.
These docking lines come in secure, plastic packages for the top quality delivery possible.
The whole package is less than 3 pounds in weight and 14.09 inches x 12.95 inches x 2.64 inches in size.
Pros
- Can be used as permanent dock lines or transient lines, easy to splice
- Washing machine-safe
- Resistant to rot, saltwater, sunlight, mildew, and UV ray
- Readymade eyelet for attaching to dock cleats
- Four 15 feet pieces
Cons
- No spring hook on the bitter end
- No chafe guard
Kohree Double Braided Nylon Dock Lines
Kohree double braided nylon ropes are ideal transient dock lines for small and medium boats. These nylon rops come in 3/8 inches in diameter and have a moderate maximum safe working load capacity of 820 pounds.
These 15 feet long double braid nylon dock lines have high shock absorption and breaking point. The strength and durability of this nylon dock line are very high.
The dock line has an eyelet, 12 inch long loop as an eyelet for cleat hitch. The other end is heat sealed. This dock line is perfect for boat lengths of up to 27 feet.
The four piece pack of black double braided nylon rope is UV ray resistant, sunlight and heat resistant, abrasion and saltwater resistant, oil, rot, and chemical resistant.
These dock lines have an excellent shock absorbency capacity and a breaking strength of 4000 pounds. You can use these ropes for other marine rope projects and outdoor projects such as camping, lashing furniture, and tying trees.
These ropes will last a long time and serve you as permanent dock lines to secure your boat.
The package is less than 3 pounds in weight and 12.99 inches x 12.32 inches x 2.4 inches in size.
Pros
- Four 15 feet pieces, a superior combination
- High breaking strength
- Can be used as a Jet Ski rope
- Resistant to rot, saltwater, sunlight, mildew, and UV ray
- Can be used as permanent dock lines or transient dock lines
- Readymade eyelets or eye splices for attaching to dock cleats
Cons
- No spring hook on the bitter end
- No chafe guard
- 15 feet maximum size
Seachoice Double Braid Nylon Dock Line
These dock lines cover all your docking needs. There is a various color option.
Seachoice double braid nylon dock lines come in many different sizes and diameters.
- ½ inch diameter- 15 feet, 20 feet, and 25 feet
- ¾ inch diameter- 25 feet, 35 feet, and 50 feet
- 3/8 inch diameter- 10 feet, 15 feet, 20 feet, and 25 feet
- 5/8 inch diameter- 20 feet, 25 feet, 30 feet, and 35 feet
These docking lines are made with premium quality double braided (professionally whipped), heat treated, pre-shrunk (for controlled elongation) durable nylon materials for long use. These ropes are stretchable and durable. They do not weaken when wet and resist under water conditions.
The ropes are mold and mildew resistant. UV rays, sunlight, and weather damage are not issues with this dock, bow, and stern lines.
These dock lines have a convenient 24 inch loop on one end as an eye splice. The other end is heat sealed for no fraying guarantee. Some of the product’s variation has smaller eye splices, be sure to check that out.
Pros
- Variety of sizes and diameter, right dock lines
- Resistant to rot, saltwater, sunlight, mildew, and UV ray
- Can be used as permanent dock lines or transient dock lines for any sized boats
- Large eye splices
Cons
- No spring hook on the bitter end
- No chafe guard
INNOCEDEAR Marine-Grade Dock Lines
Innocedear dock lines are marine grade, ultra strong, heavy duty double braided dock lines for your docking needs.
These dock lines come in 1/2 inches in diameter size and 15 feet in length. This premium quality mega braid nylon rope is made with 24 individual, strong strands of nylon rope for the highest durability and stretch.
The rope is very strong and tightly held together; it will not fray or chafe. The four piece pack is perfect for boat lengths up to 35 feet. It can easily take that much force. It is professionally whipped and heat treated for controlled elongation.
These treatments make sure the rope doesn’t fray or unravel. You can use these dock lines as bow and stern lines and even anchor lines.
The quality of the braid makes it stronger than three strands of twisted rope. The high-quality professional stitching on the eye splice points is very heavy-duty for great service.
The Marine grade nylon gives the dock line the ability to be long lasting and very useful as other marine rope projects and outdoor projects.
If you find a faulty product, the company will give you a replacement easily. They do not give any guarantees, but they will replace or refund your purchase if you are not 100% satisfied.
Pros
- Great value for money
- Variety of sizes and diameter
- Marine grade mega braid nylon
- Resistant to rot, saltwater, sunlight, mildew, and UV ray
- Can be used as permanent or transient dock lines for any sized boats
- Large eye splices
Cons
- No spring hook on the bitter end
- No chafe guard
Jranter Bungee Dock Lines
Jranter Bungee dock lines come in 4 pieces pack; these synthetic fibers made dock lines are perfect for your small and medium boats.
Double braided, triple stitched two eye splices or eyelets are perfect to easily attach dock cleats. These dock lines come in 4 feet to 5.5 feet sizes for your convenience. These ropes are extremely durable and amazingly long lasting.
The two loops on both rope ends make it easier for you to tie a strong knot to the dock cleat heaths and your boat.
Because it is a bungee cord, it is stretchable and durable. This is why it is the perfect choice for you if you live in windy areas of the country. It absorbs tremendous amounts of shocks and saves your small to medium boats from harm.
The long service life of this dock line is ensured by the easy to rinse, mega braid, air dry, and moisture proof nature of the material. There are foam chafe guards for wear protection and floatability. You need not worry about losing this dock line under water.
The inner bungee cord makes the dock line easy to store and easy to use. It gives it more durability.
The PE braided rope gives the inner bungee cord extra protection and durability. It comes in many colors for you to choose from.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Bungee cord
- High breaking strength
- Durable and flexible
- Can be used as transient or permanent dock lines for any sized boats
- Large eye splices
Cons
- No spring hook on the bitter end
- Only one size
Rainier Supply Co Dock Lines
Rainier Supply makes great marine ropes, paracords, and other assorted outdoor use ropes.
Rainier dock lines are one of the finest quality mega braid dock lines in the market today. These premium double braid nylon dock lines have a load capacity of 820 pounds, meaning they can regularly work with that load for years. The breaking point is five times that!
This nylon made dock line comes in two sizes, 15 feet, and 25 feet, with 3/8 inch diameter and 1/2 inch diameter, respectively.
They are very adept for marine use. They are resistant to saltwater, sunlight damage, UV rays, and mold or mildew. It has limited stretch and increased shock absorption.
The ropes are heat treated, and the bitter ends are heat sealed for fray proofing.
There is an eyelet on both of the dock lines for easy docking with a cleat hitch. There are other sizes and dimension options available for you, 15 feet x 3/8 inch diameter (Available as a 2 Pack or 4 Pack), 25 feet x ½ inch diameter (Available as a 2 Pack), 30 feet x 3/4 inch diameter, 50 feet x 5/8 inch diameter, and 50 feet x 3/4 inch diameter.
The overall rating of this dock line pack is 4.8.
Pros
- Great value for money
- Double braided nylon can be used as an anchor line
- Durable and flexible boat dock lines pack
- Can be used as permanent dock lines or transient dock lines for any sized boats
- Has eye splices, 12 inch long loop
Cons
- No spring hook on the bitter end
AIRHEAD AHDL-4 Bungee Dockline
Airhead bungee dock lines come in four feet sizes. These dock lines can have a load capacity of 4000 pounds. Like the other bungee cord dock line we have reviewed, this bungee cord dock line is very durable and easy to use.
It is one of the finest dock lines you can get for your small boats. There are two eye splices with foam chafe guards that can adjust the splice size for easy attachment to the cleat heath.
Pros
- Most value for money
- Double braided nylon, can be used as an anchor line
- Durable and flexible boat dock lines pack
- Can be used as permanent dock lines or transient dock lines for any sized boats
- Has eye splices, 12 inch long loop
Cons
- No spring hook on the bitter end
- Small in size
Iririi Bungee Dock Line
This dock line features an integrated concealed rubber band and a woven PE outer layer for added durability. These features, when combined, have the potential to operate as a built-in shock absorber, mitigating the impact of waves and tides to their fullest extent. Even if there are waves, the boat will not capsize. This attachment has the ability to dock and safeguard your boat, keeping you safe in the process.
This dock line allows for a fast docking experience. There is a snap made of 316 stainless steel. You can swiftly dock this line in seven seconds even if you do not have any prior experience.
The boat may be protected from dings and scratches by the two foam floats. Even in the event that you inadvertently let the dock line fall into the water, the foam floats will prevent it from sinking, and it will be simple for you to retrieve it.
This dock line provides an exceptional service for various activities. It has a tensile strength of 2200 pounds and can support boats and personal watercraft (PWC) weighing up to 4,500 pounds. As a result, this dock line is among the top options for motorboats, pontoons, Yamaha WaveRunners, SeaDoos, kayaks, dinghies, and other types of watercraft.
This dock line provides quality that can be relied upon. The bungee cords sold by Iririi are capable of providing reliable protection against acid, corrosion, alkali, and chemical corrosion. Because it is able to adjust to a wide variety of conditions found outside, it is the greatest option for outdoor activities.
It’s 4 feet long, but it can stretch to 5.5 feet. Due to the fact that this length is just right, getting on and off of the boat without having to pull it is a piece of cake. Due to the fact that it comes with a warranty that is valid for one year beginning on the date that it was purchased, you can buy it with complete peace of mind.
Pros
- Offers safety for both you and your boat
- Has a wide range of potential uses
- The shock absorber makes it stronger against high tides
- Beginner friendly
- Quick docking system
- Corrosion resistant
- Easy to get it on and off boat
- Stretchable
- UV protected cover
- Foam floats to prevent chafing
- Comes with one-year warranty
Cons
- Clips may not fit some boats
- Durability declines faster if used on larger boats
Best Dock Lines Buyer’s Guide
Let’s get to know some of the necessary information for selecting a dock line that fits your specific requirements.
Types of Dock Line Ropes
There are two types of dock lines:
1. Twisted Rope
Twisted ropes are made by twisting fibers into strands and then twisting those strands into a rope to create a twisted rope. Twisted rope may be made from a variety of materials, including nylon line, polyester, and polypropylene. Actually, this type of rope is the most widely used.
These ropes are simple to splice together. It has somewhat a greater ability to stretch than braided rope. These ropes are less expensive.
These ropes, on the other hand, are less flexible. Furthermore, if the ends are not adequately sealed up, they can easily come apart.
2. Braided Rope
Weaving 8-10 strands of fiber together into a tube-like form is how braided rope is produced.
There are three types of braided rope available:
- Hollow braided rope- Hollow braided rope is created by braiding fibers together into a tube with an empty center.
- Solid braided rope- Solid braided rope is made by braiding fibers into a tube-shaped rope with a filler core. This type of rope is stronger than hollow braided rope.
- Double braided rope- Double braided rope has a braided center. These ropes are even stronger than solid braided rope.
Braided rope is more flexible than twisted rope. It is stronger too.
The braided rope has a better finishing than twisted rope. But braided ropes are difficult to splice. It also has less stretch than twisted rope.
Rope Materials
In this false economy, you need to know the type of dock line ropes you require and can afford.
There are Polypropylene Rope, Polyester rope, and nylon rope. Each has its drawbacks and strengths.
1. Nylon
The stress absorption properties of nylon rope are superior. As a result of their ability to stretch up to 40%, these ropes are better suited for dock rope and dock rope. When they get wet, though, they lose their strength. Fortunately, people have come up with innovative solutions to this problem, such as using stainless steel as a fastening material for nylon rope. Nylon rope will not float in water. It has a longer lifespan than other ropes, and it can withstand rot, mildew, and severe weather conditions.
Nylon rope is resistant to water and the majority of chemicals. It is significantly more resistant to heat and sunshine than any other type of dock rope available. Although nylon rope can be stretched, they always return to their original length.
2. Polyester rope
Polyester dock lines are, without a doubt, the most desirable dock rope. It is inexpensive. In addition, they are virtually as strong as nylon rope. When it becomes wet, it doesn’t lose any of its strength. It does not float. It has a longer life.
A polyester dock line has a high level of abrasion resistance and durability. It is as weather-resistant as nylon rope and can tolerate sunlight. It is shock-resistant, UV resistant, and it expands just a small bit when stretched. It is the most suitable choice for dock rope. However, it may be utilized for a number of other applications as well.
3. Synthetic Fibers
Synthetic fiber ropes are quite strong, although they do not stretch much. Not stretching somewhat compromises the ability to absorb shock. Synthetic fibers are less shock absorbent.
These ropes are more prone to abrasion. So you need extreme care and treatment while using this rope.
These ropes are UV-resistant and give you the perfect grip. You can get the most from these ropes if you invest enough time and care in them.
4. Polypropylene
Polypropylene rope is significantly less expensive than nylon or polyester rope. These ropes are made of synthetic materials. Polypropylene rope floats, making it easier to retrieve them if they become tangled. They can also be utilized for search and rescue operations. They do, however, offer a limited level of UV Ray resistance. They can, in rare circumstances, cause injury to your hands. Polypropylene rope, on the other hand, is abrasion resistant and chemical resistant. Strong and resistant to heavy loads, it is a fantastic choice. Although it is flexible, it has a limited amount of stretch compared to nylon and polyester rope.
| Nylon rope | Polyester rope | Polypropylene rope | Synthetic rope |
| Strong | Strong | Lightweight | Quite strong |
| Shock absorption | Low Stretch | Minimum Stretch | Minimum stretch |
| Oil resistant | UV Ray Resistant | Flexible | Prone to abrasion |
| Good Abrasion | Rot proof | Load capacity high | Less shock absorbent |
| Returns to the original length | Easy to handle | Good abrasion | UV resistant |
| Mildew resistant | Soft | Chemical Resistant | Greater grip |
Things to Consider Before Buying Dock Lines
Dock lines are meant to keep your boat safe in the dock, wharf, or attached to another boat. The arrangement can be temporary or permanent. There are a few things you need to keep in mind while buying dock lines.
- Materials- Nylon and synthetic fibers are the perfect materials for any rope that is meant to be under a lot of stress. The dock lines are often made of these materials. Nylon can stretch and retain its original shape once the pull has gone.
Nylon is weather proof and doesn’t wear easily. They are mildew and UV resistant.
Synthetic ropes are a good choice, a second choice, to be honest. These ropes are UV resistant and give you a solid grip.
- Chafe guard- Dock lines are prone to friction with the surface of either the dock or the boat itself. This results in wear and damage to the rope. The dock lines have worked around this menacing problem by adding chafe guards to their ropes. These guards protect the ropes from direct contact with the surface and thereby reduced damage.
- Rope build- As we have seen, there are many types of rope regarding how they are made or build (woven). The build seems to be a braided three strand rope dock line. These ropes look and are rough and strong. It is easier to splice an eyelet into braided three strand lines made dock line. Double braided dock lines are also good, but it is harder to splice, and that is a consideration that you should have in your mind. But most double braided docking lines have avoided this problem by giving you a preinstalled eyelet.
- Color- Now, this is a controversial issue. The color of the dock line does not affect their efficiency. Not by a bit! But we are only mentioning this because practicality dictates it. There are two things here. First, light colored dock lines hide wear and tear. Darker dock lines show these signs more prominently. This flies in the face of the sophistication and aristocracy attached to the image of a boat owner. But at the same time, it is important to know when to change your dock line because it depends on that information. This is a double edged sword, but if you know how to use it, you can make the most of it.
How to Use Boat Dock Lines
It takes six lines to secure your boat with the dock lines.
You need two spring lines on the side, two bow and stern lines, one stern line on the front, and one stern line on the back.
Your spring lines should be a few feet longer than your boat. The bow and stern lines must be two-thirds or about half to three quarters of the length of the boat.
Boat Length to Line Diameter Ratio
| Boat Length | 27 feet | 28-31 feet | 32-36 feet | 37-45 feet | 46-54 feet | 55-63 feet | 64-72 feet |
| Dock line diameter | 3/8 inch | 7/16 inch | 1/2 inch | 5/8 inch | 3/4 inch | 7/8 inch | 1 inch |
Final Thoughts
We have selected the finest dock lines based on the reviews of the customers and experts’ opinion.
You may have different experiences with these or different products. Please write to us, your suggestions, experience, and support are our guide (data rights reserved by our privacy policy).
FAQs
What are the finest dock lines?
Ans: Rainier, Regatta, Obcursco, Kohree, Seachoice, Jranter, Airhead, and Innocedear dock lines are the top choice.
How do I choose a dock line?
Ans: The dock lines are selected on the basis of the need. There are considerations of boat size and the location, diameter, and length. Materials are important, as well as the build of the ropes. Three strand nylon dock lines are the most popular among boat-owners.
What size should dock lines be?
You need to consult our boat length and dock line chart for that.
What is the ideal rope to tie a boat to a dock?
Ans: Rainier, Regatta, Obcursco, Kohree, Seachoice, Jranter, Airhead, and Innocedear dock line ropes are a perfect choice.
