Yacht Fender Maintenance and Selection Guide

Yachts represent the pinnacle of leisure vessels, valued not only for their superior sailing performance but equally for their elegant aesthetics and comfortable experience. However, during actual use, yachts inevitably face collision risks during docking. Fenders, serving as critical protective equipment during mooring, play an indispensable role in vessel protection.

Fenders, also known as bumpers or boat cushions, are protective devices installed along the sides, bow, or stern of vessels where collision risks are highest. Their primary functions include:

• Preventing direct hull-to-dock or hull-to-vessel contact: Through elastic deformation, fenders absorb impact energy, protecting the hull from scratches, dents, or structural damage.
• Noise reduction during docking: They minimize friction noise between the hull and docking surfaces, enhancing mooring comfort.
• Dock facility protection: Fenders safeguard both the vessel and docking infrastructure from collision damage.

Fenders contribute substantially to yacht safety through:

• Hull preservation: Serving as the first line of defense against collision damage, reducing maintenance frequency and costs.
• Enhanced safety: Minimizing collision risks during docking operations.
• Value retention: Well-maintained fenders preserve the yacht's appearance and overall value.

Leading fender brands including Majoni, Dan-Fender, Polyform, and Anchor Marine employ different valve designs requiring specific inflation methods:

• Majoni: Features durable brass valves compatible with air compressors or bicycle pumps with proper adapters.
• Dan-Fender: Utilizes diverse valve designs including threaded connections and needle valves requiring specialized inflation needles.
• Polyform/Anchor Marine: Typically use plastic valves requiring specific adapters for airtight inflation.

For optimal performance of Majoni fenders:

• Use air compressors directly on valves (no needle required)
• Bicycle pumps require proper adapter connections
• Retail locations often provide inflation services
• Ideal pressure: ~0.2 bar (should yield to gentle palm pressure)
• Valve replacement procedures using M3 bolts
• Strict prohibition against needle-type inflators

• Cleaning: Regular washing with mild detergent to remove salt and debris
• UV protection: Use fender covers or socks to prevent sun degradation
• Inspection: Monthly checks for wear, cracks, or air leaks
• Storage: Keep in cool, dry areas away from direct sunlight

When selecting fenders:

• Size: Proportionate to vessel dimensions (6-8" for <30ft, 8-12" for 30-50ft, 12"+ for >50ft)
• Material: PVC (budget), rubber (premium), or polyurethane (balanced)
• Shape: Spherical (versatile), cylindrical (side protection), or elongated (space-saving)
• Brand: Prioritize established manufacturers for quality assurance

Proper fender placement requires:

• Strategic positioning at all vulnerable contact points
• Appropriate spacing between units
• Height adjustment relative to dock elevation
• Selection of mounting method (hanging, fixed, or adjustable)

• Air leakage: Inspect valves and surfaces, use repair kits as needed
• Surface wear: Implement protective covers, avoid abrasive contact
• Material degradation: Replace when hardening or brittleness occurs

Improper maintenance led to hull abrasion when degraded fenders failed during docking.

Undersized fenders resulted in inadequate coverage and difficult mooring situations.

Proper fender selection, inflation, and maintenance form essential components of yacht care. Regular inspections, appropriate sizing, and quality materials collectively ensure optimal vessel protection and longevity. Following these guidelines will contribute to safer, more enjoyable maritime experiences.