The first item to replace on the new boat will be dock lines. The existing ‘lines’ are made up of scraps that are barely able to keep their physical shape without turning into dust so I have done my research and here is what I learned.
There are a variety of materials, line types and sizes. Yacht clubs have special requirements that are not mandated in many other marinas. Here are the relevant points
Material: Choose nylon rope because it has more stretch in it. Some claim 30% stretch, as opposed to 15% or less for other types of material. You want the stretch to ease the motion of the boat and absorb shocks from waves and surge.
Line type: Choose 3-strand line over braid. Braid is the common material sold as “docking line” in major marine shops, mostly because it is comfortable to touch and easier to coil. However, 3-strand line less expensive by 25-50% and is much easier to splice. Splicing a thimble into the end of your line is a requirement by many yacht clubs and the added cost of doing that professionally just doesn’t make sense so be sure you are comfortable with splicing the type of line you choose.
Size: On marine shop recommended 5/8″ line to be used on my 26′ Contessa. Every other opinion I have solicited said that 5/8″ is incredible overkill, 1/2″ line is overkill as well and 3/8″ line is sufficient.
My choice was Canadian made, 1/2″, 3-strand nylon rope in bulk at $0.50/foot. In bulk, I could reduce that price to $0.45/foot and online you can get similar line as low as $0.28/foot.
I made this choice because:
1. The yacht club requires a minimum of 1/2″ line, I have no choice.
2. The yacht club requires thimbles spliced into the ends, I can do this myself with 3-strand.
3. I think nylon is the best choice because of the stretch characteristics.