Marine electronics

New England Ropes Dock Line

New England Ropes has built quality marine line in New Bedford since 1967. This collection covers nylon double braid and premium 3-strand dock lines that hold your boat secure at the slip. Picking the Right Dock Line Nylon is the standard for dock lines because it stretches under load and absorbs shock from wind and wakes. Double braid line is soft, easy to handle and resists abrasion, while 3-strand offers more stretch and a classic look that is simple to splice. Sizing and Length Match line diameter to your boat length. As a general rule, use 3/8 inch for boats up to 20 feet, 1/2 inch up to 30 feet, and 5/8 inch or larger for bigger boats. For length,...

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New England Ropes has built quality marine line in New Bedford since 1967. This collection covers nylon double braid and premium 3-strand dock lines that hold your boat secure at the slip.

Picking the Right Dock Line

Nylon is the standard for dock lines because it stretches under load and absorbs shock from wind and wakes. Double braid line is soft, easy to handle and resists abrasion, while 3-strand offers more stretch and a classic look that is simple to splice.

Sizing and Length

Match line diameter to your boat length. As a general rule, use 3/8 inch for boats up to 20 feet, 1/2 inch up to 30 feet, and 5/8 inch or larger for bigger boats. For length, a bow or stern line should run about two thirds of your boat length, and spring lines should match the full boat length. Carry extra lines for stormy weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are dock lines made of nylon?

Nylon stretches under load, which absorbs shock from wind, current and passing wakes. That elasticity protects your cleats and hull better than low-stretch lines.

What size dock line do I need?

Match diameter to boat length. A common guide is 3/8 inch up to 20 feet, 1/2 inch up to 30 feet, and 5/8 inch or larger for boats over 30 feet.

What is the difference between double braid and 3-strand?

Double braid is soft, handles easily and resists abrasion. Three strand stretches more, costs less and is easy to splice, which makes it a popular choice for everyday mooring.

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