Ridetheducksofseattle is reader-supported. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

The Best Ropes for Mooring Lines

Written by Anthony Roberts / Fact checked by Jonathan Larson

Only the best rope for mooring lines will be able to give you the peace of mind that your boat is safe and secure. However small or big your boat is, you should use accessories and tools that are durable, well-made, and guaranteed to be reliable.

Mooring lines are particularly important when it comes to making sure that your watercraft is securely moored. It’s vital to make sure that you use only the sturdiest rope to moor your boat, but it’s also important to make sure that you won’t break the bank just to keep your boat safe.

best rope for mooring lines

Fortunately, there are many options to choose from. The downside, of course, is that many of these options aren’t worth your money. However, you won’t have to waste time, resources, and energy on trying out different options just to find one that works well for you.

This guide will help you narrow down your choices and allow you to get a better idea of which mooring ropes for boats are the best among the best. With the options discussed below, you’ll surely be able to find what you’ve been looking for.

Top 1

INNOCEDEAR Dock Line

+ Resists fraying, breakage, and other signs of damage
+ Can withstand loads under 6490 lbs
+ Suitable for small to medium boats

Jump to Review

Top 2

GREENEVER Boat Rope

+ Made of UV-resistant, mold-resistant
+ Can be used to pull and transport cargo
+ Easy to tie and untie

Jump to Review

Top 3

OBeauty Bungee Dock Line

+ Loop and slider make mooring a boat quick and easy
+ Can be used with mooring buoys as well
+ Suitablefor smaller watercraft

Jump to Review

Top 10 Rope for Mooring Line Reviews

1. INNOCEDEAR Dock Line

Marine environments can be quite harsh, which is why you need boat accessories that can withstand exposure to the elements. With the INNOCEDEAR Double-Braided Nylon Dock Line, you won’t have to worry about fraying, breakage, or other signs of damage for a long time.

These ropes come in a pack of four, each piece of rope double braided with a 0.5-inch diameter nylon core. The nylon core has 24 individual strands, each one engineered to be super strong. The only time you’ll have to worry about breakage is if the rope is attached to a whopping load of 6490 lbs.

Additionally, this rope is made to be able to withstand the effects of a marine environment. It won’t be damaged by mold, saltwater, or exposure to the sun’s UV rays. It’s therefore perfect for use with any small to medium boat with a length of up to 35 feet long.

This rope is particularly well-suited for those looking for very low-maintenance accessories that can last for a long time. It has heat-treated ends to prevent fraying, as well as a 12-inch eyelet on one end.

There’s no doubt that this rope is a great purchase and you’ll surely get a lot of use out of it. One of the best things about it, aside from its high-quality construction, is that it’s far less expensive than other ropes of the same caliber. Given the quality and durability of this rope, it gives a lot of bang for your buck.

As durable and strong as this rope is, you’ll also have to be careful with using it. It won’t easily chafe, fray, and break, but it’s best to keep it away from rubbing up too much against boat edges.
Pros
  • Resists fraying, breakage, and other signs of damage
  • 5-inch diameter nylon core with 24 strong individual strands
  • Can withstand loads under 6490 lbs
  • Resists mold, saltwater, and UV exposure
  • Suitable for small to medium boats up to 35 feet long
  • Low maintenance and less expensive than other options
Cons
  • Should be kept away from boat edges
Because it’s a less expensive option that’s just as good as its pricier counterparts, this rope is well worth the purchase. It’s made to be strong and durable, capable of withstanding loads with weights under 6490 lbs.

2. GREENEVER Boat Rope for Docking

Sometimes, it’s best to use ropes that are made specifically to be mooring lines. After all, these ropes are made specifically for the marine environment, which does come with its own set of challenges. Fortunately, the GREENEVER Boat Rope for Docking is more than ready to meet those challenges.

This rope comes in a set of four and is made of marine-grade nylon. This means that it’s well-suited for use on boats and docks because it can withstand UV exposure and resist mold, oil, and saltwater. It’s also highly shock-absorbent but it’s designed not to stretch too much.

With a length of 15 feet and a diameter of 3/8 inches, this nylon mooring line is best used for boats that are up to 25 feet long. It has 24 strands of nylon braided together, capable of bearing loads of about 790 lbs. However, this rope can handle loads of up to 5800 lbs before it breaks.

Additionally, this rope isn’t just for mooring. It can also be used for pulling cargo, transporting bulky items, and more. Thus, this rope is more versatile and useful than you might expect.

Handling ropes can also be tough on your hands, and the ropes can be abrasive on your boat as well. This rope, however, is strong and durable but far gentler on your hands and boat than other ropes. It’s smooth to the touch and also easy to tie and untie.

However, it seems that though this rope is quite versatile, it might not be the best choice for anchors. Using this rope with anchors can lead to some wear, which doesn’t happen with most of the other ways that this rope can be used.
Pros
  • Made of UV-resistant, mold-resistant, and oil and salt water-resistant nylon
  • Shock-absorbent with low stretch, suitable for boats up to 25 feet long
  • 24 strands of marine-grade nylon capable of handling heavy loads
  • Versatile; can be used to pull and transport cargo
  • Strong and durable without being rough on your hands and boat
  • Smooth to the touch; easy to tie and untie
Cons
  • Not suitable for use with anchors
This nylon rope may be marine-grade, but it’s not just useful in marine environments. With its durable and masterful construction as well as its high-quality materials, it’s a reliable mooring line and rope for other situations.

3. OBeauty Bungee Dock Line

If you’re a newbie and you’re not quite used to mooring your boat properly just yet, the OBeauty Bungee Dock Line is a great tool to have in your arsenal. It’s designed to be easier to use than traditional mooring lines while still maintaining durability and reliability.

Learning how to easily and quickly moor a boat can take time and it’s definitely a skill that you’ll learn and master through experience. However, this rope is designed to make things easier even for the greenest of boaters. Each end of this rope has a loop and a slider that can make mooring your boat easy and quick.

Additionally, this mooring rope has a bungee cord at its core. It’s this bungee cord that acts as the rope’s snubber, allowing it to easily absorb shock as the boat is pulled farther out into the water.

You can easily use this rope to attach your boat to your dock, but it’s also designed to function as a rope for mooring buoy without the higher risk of damage.

While this rope isn’t well suited for larger boats, it works very well with smaller watercraft. You may not want to use a typical mooring line for kayaks, jet skis, pontoons; this rope will serve as a very good alternative because it’s designed for boats and watercraft of this size.

One thing to keep in mind, however, is that this rope shouldn’t stretch too much. While other materials can make a piece of rope snap right back to its original length, this rope can lose a bit of its elasticity if it stretches too much and too often.
Pros
  • Loop and slider make mooring a boat quick and easy
  • Bungee cord core that effectively absorbs shock
  • Can be used with mooring buoys as well
  • Best for smaller watercraft, like jet skis and kayaks
Cons
  • Can lose a bit of elasticity if it stretches too much
Think outside the box and use this bungee dock line for securely mooring your watercraft without having to deal with traditional mooring lines. This rope is designed to be easy to use and is great for securing smaller watercraft.

4. Amarine Made Double Braid Dockline

It’s best to make sure that you use a rope for marine use as a mooring line. For this purpose, keep the Amarine Made Double Braid Nylon Dockline in mind. It’s a reliable product that can withstand heavy use and a wide range of factors that can damage an ordinary rope.

This double-braided rope is highly ideal for docking. It can resist the effects of saltwater, oil, gas, and UV exposure. It can also withstand the effects of many chemicals or substances you might have on board.

Additionally, it can absorb shock very well and can stretch and revert to its original length with no problems. It’s made of strong nylon and can bear working loads of up to 1540 lbs. It can bear up to 7700 lbs before breaking.

With a 5/8-inch diameter and a length of 25 feet, this rope is best suited for small to medium boats. It has a 15-inch eyelet at one end, making it easier to use during mooring.

Even though the rope has good flexibility, it also won’t stretch too much. Your boat won’t venture too far out on the water, and you also won’t have to worry about the line snapping back too abruptly. However, it has just enough flexibility that it’s easy to use and tie into knots when necessary.

Another great thing about this rope is its price. You’ll find other ropes with the same features as this one, but they’ll likely be much more expensive.

While this rope is made to be durable, snapping might occur if you use it during a storm. If you expect a hurricane to happen, consider double-lining the rope.
Pros
  • Withstands UV exposure, saltwater, gas, oil, and chemicals
  • Made of strong, shock-absorbent nylon that can bear massive weight
  • Comes with a 15-inch eyelet at one end for convenient mooring
  • Easy to tie off and flexible but doesn’t stretch too much
  • Less expensive than other comparable ropes
  • Best suits small, medium boats
Cons
  • Might snap during storms
Get a great price for a great rope that’s reliable, durable, and made to withstand the rigors of a marine environment. While this rope is durable and strong, it’s also easy to handle and use.

5. Kohree Dock Mooring Line Rope

Easily and securely moor your boat with this four-pack of Kohree Double Braided Nylon Dock Mooring Line Rope. It’s a reliable rope that can hold up well and does the job without any hassle.

Whichever part of the world you may currently be in, this is a great mooring line to use when the weather starts to permit boating. It’s made to be UV-resistant, so it can withstand extended exposure to the sun as long as you don’t leave it out for too long. It can also withstand the effects of abrasion, saltwater, oil, and more.

With its 3/8-inch diameter and 15-foot length, this is a great rope to use for boats that are up to 27 feet long. Additionally, it also comes in a pack of four, so one purchase can give you enough rope to securely moor your boat. It has a maximum working load of 820 lbs, so it can work well with a variety of loads.

Because this rope is made of double-braided nylon, it has great tensile strength and won’t easily snap when pulled. It also absorbs shock very well, which means that it can keep your boat secure even in strong winds and waves.

Another great thing about this rope is that it’s easy to handle and soft on the hands. You’ll be able to tie it off quite easily, and if you have older kids, they’ll be able to help with mooring because this rope is very easy to handle.

However, you may find that the rope doesn’t stretch as much as other nylon ropes. This may present a problem in the future, especially when conditions out on the water get rough.
Pros
  • UV-resistant, handles abrasion, saltwater, oil, and more very well
  • Comes in a pack of four, suitable for boats up to 27 feet long
  • Maximum working load of 820 lbs
  • Double-braided nylon that won’t easily break
  • Easy to tie off, soft on the hands
Cons
  • Does not stretch as much as it should
This rope is easy to use but is made to be tough and durable, perfect for use in a rough marine environment. It’s a reliable product that can last for a long time and will be able to bear significant loads.

6. Jranter Bungee Dock Line

Bungee dock lines are a more innovative way to keep your boats securely moored and safe from damage. The Jranter Bungee Dock Line for Boat is an excellent example of a bungee dock line that can make securing your boat a lot easier and faster than you may be used to.

The more traditional mooring lines can sometimes tug on a boat, which can cause some damage. A bungee dock line like this, however, eliminates that tugging and makes docking easier as well. It also comes with a loop on both ends that can easily be attached to cleats.

Unlike the typical nylon mooring lines, this bungee dock line has a bungee cord at its core. This bungee cord is capable of absorbing a significant amount of shock, which can also reduce the chances of your boat retaining damage. It also allows this line to stretch from 4 feet up to 5.5 feet without breaking.

If you’re not the best at tying secure or even just remotely acceptable knots, this dock line may be the best choice for you. There will be no need for you to know how to tie secure and sturdy lines, and you won’t have to pull and tug at lengths of rope just to get the knots and the lengths right.

In general, this is a very good purchase that can keep your boat secure and your peace of mind intact. Additionally, it’s easy to store and you won’t have to wrestle with several feet of rope to keep your boat tidy.

However, if you’re used to nylon ropes for docking lines, you may find that bungee dock lines won’t replace the tools you’re already accustomed to using. While this bungee dock line is well-made, it’s perhaps best for those who are actively looking for alternatives to nylon ropes.
Pros
  • No tugging that can damage boats
  • Has loops on both ends to make attachment to cleats easier
  • Shock-absorbent bungee cord core
  • Stretches from 4 feet to 5.5 feet
  • Easy to use for those unused to tying knots for boats
  • Easy to store
Cons
  • Not ideal for those accustomed to using nylon ropes
A bungee dock line is an innovative alternative to the more traditional nylon ropes used for mooring lines. They are easier to use, don’t require complicated knots, and are made to be highly shock-absorbent.

7. WAVESRX Marine Mooring Rope

Shock absorption is an important feature of braided mooring lines. The WAVESRX Double Braided Nylon Marine Mooring Rope can provide all the shock absorption your boat needs, and more.

The wind and the waves can tug and jerk your boat around, which is why proper mooring with the help of high-quality mooring lines is paramount. This rope doesn’t just have high shock absorption, but low stretch as well. This means that it can absorb shock while keeping your boat securely in place.

Of course, another important feature that you should look for in a mooring line is durability and resistance to damage. This rope is made to be resistant to UV damage and the effects of saltwater, oil, gas, chemicals, and many other factors that can cause damage.

While this is a rugged and highly durable rope, it’s not rough on the hands. In fact, it’s easy to handle and is soft to the touch. This makes it easier for you to securely tie knots since you won’t have to worry about chafing.

This softness is a testament to how well-made this rope is. However, this softness is not the only thing that makes the rope easy to use. It also has a 12-inch spliced loop on one end that can make attachment to boat cleats or your dock much easier.

Of course, it’s also important to have mooring lines that are durable and can withstand the test of time. This rope has heat-treated and reinforced ends that won’t fray, which helps the rope stay intact and undamaged for a long time.

However, you might find that this rope might be more expensive compared to other similar options. While this rope is worth the price, there may be cheaper alternatives out there that are just as good.
Pros
  • Has high shock absorption with low stretch
  • Resistant to UV exposure, saltwater, gas, oil, chemicals
  • Strong and durable but soft to the touch
  • 12-inch spliced end loop and heat-treated, reinforced ends
Cons
  • A bit more expensive than other comparable ropes
Overall, this rope is a great option for those that want something that can withstand rugged environments without being too rough on the hands and on the boat. This rope is designed and made to be durable and long-lasting.

8. XUANNIAO Bungee Dock Line

When it comes to mooring, smaller boats need just as much security as their larger counterparts. Fortunately, this is something that the XUANNIAO Bungee Dock Line can easily provide.

This dock line is a versatile tool that can make docking, mooring, and securing your boat easy and quick. It comes with loops on both ends, which can easily be attached to cleats, docks, and moorings. With these loops, you won’t have to worry about tying and securing knots, which is ideal for those who are still new to boating.

You can also use this dock line to tie two boats together while also preventing them from bumping into each other. It can be used on jet skis, fishing boats, kayaks, and motorboats.

While this dock line is 4 feet long, it can stretch up to 5.5 feet long. It also has other uses outside of mooring and docking, and it can function well in other applications. Because of this, it’s well worth the purchase and you’ll have a versatile tool that can be used both off and on the water.

Additionally, this dock line has a bungee cord at its core. This bungee cord is designed to be able to efficiently absorb shock, thus protecting your boat from damage. You won’t have to worry about the effects of strong winds and waves and you can wait out bad weather with no sweat.

This dock line is definitely dependable, but you might want to avoid relying on it for long periods. It can work very well in a cinch, but be careful if you want to use it for mooring your boat for a longer time.
Pros
  • Makes docking and mooring your boat quick and easy
  • Easy to attach to cleats and moorings
  • Can be used to tie two boats together without them bumping into each other
  • Can stretch up to 5.5 feet
  • Useful in many applications on and off the water
  • Shock absorbent bungee cord core
Cons
  • Best suited for short-term and not long-term mooring
This bungee dock line presents an easy way for you to securely moor your boat or tie two boats together without damaging them. It can also be used in other applications, though it’s perfect for maritime use.

9. Better Boat Mooring Marine Rope

A lot of ropes tend to kink or rotate once they begin to bear heavier loads. The Better Boat Braided Mooring Marine Rope, however, is designed to stay steady, durable, and reliable in nearly any conditions out on the water.

The top-rated rope for mooring lines should always be marine-grade. This means that the rope is resistant to the effects of exposure to the sun and saltwater. It should also be able to stay in the water without degrading or sustaining damage. This rope satisfies all these criteria. With its heat-treated ends, this rope will neither fray nor degrade for a long time to come.

You’ll also get this rope in a set of four pieces, great for securing your boat right away. It also comes with a 12-inch eyelet on one end, which makes tying it off easier and quicker than you might expect.

Speaking of tying a rope off easily — this one is made to be soft on the hands. You won’t have to struggle with a rough rope surface and hurt your hands when securing knots. The nylon that this rope is made of is supple, but the rope will not slip or come undone easily as long as it is well-secured.

With a diameter of 3/8 inches and a length of 15 feet, this rope is well-suited for use with small to medium boats. You won’t have to worry about your boat getting pulled away by the waves or pushed against the dock too hard. This will help greatly reduce the chances that your boat will get damaged.

While some might appreciate the smoothness and suppleness of this rope, others might find that it’s too slippery to handle easily.
Pros
  • Does not kink or rotate
  • Marine-grade; resistant to UV exposure and saltwater
  • Heat-treated ends to prevent fraying
  • 12-inch eyelet for easy attachment to cleats
  • Effectively secures small to medium boats
  • Smooth on the hands
Cons
  • May be too slippery for some
Using marine-grade boat supplies is always the best idea, and this includes mooring lines like this rope. This rope is made for use on the water and is constructed to be able to withstand the demands of a marine environment.

10. XUANNIAO Bungee Boat Dock Line

A bungee dock line is the best choice for those that need something that can very efficiently absorb shock. The XUANNIAO Bungee Boat Dock Line is one of the best bungee dock line options out there because of its tensile strength and the fact that it’s easy to use.

While this dock line might not look like much, it’s actually much stronger than you might expect. It can bear loads that weigh up to 2400 lbs, with a breaking point of 4000 lbs. It’s therefore reliable and can withstand a lot before it breaks, thus allowing you to have a lot of peace of mind.

You’ll also be able to dock your boat without spending much time trying to secure it. The bungee dock line has adjustable loops on both ends, both of which can be easily slipped over moorings and cleats. No need to learn how to tie knots and spend time securing them.

Because this dock line comes in a set of four pieces, one set can help you secure a small to medium boat. You can also use this dock line to secure jet skis, yawls, kayaks, and pontoons. You can use one line up to all four depending on the size of the boat.

Convenience is perhaps the best thing that this dock line can offer. Other than being convenient to use, however, this product is also versatile and can be used in several different applications. It can be used with boats, and to secure things on land as well.

One thing to watch out for is that this dock line might stretch out too far for your taste. Depending on how you want to use it, you might want a dock line that refrains from stretching too much.
Pros
  • Great tensile strength; can bear loads up to 2400 lbs
  • Easy to use when docking and mooring; no need to tie knots
  • Suitable for small to medium watercraft
  • Provides convenience and security both on and off the water
Cons
  • Might stretch out too much
This pack of four bungee dock lines can help you easily and quickly secure a variety of small to medium boats and watercraft. It’s easy to use and comes with loops that will help you secure your boat without having to tie knots.

Buyer’s Guide

mooring-rope-size-guide

Not all mooring lines are made equal, which is why it’s important to choose the one that will work best for your boat. You’ll have many rope options and types to choose from, which can be overwhelming especially to those newer to marine hobbies. However, by being more discerning, you’ll be able to find exactly what you need.

Here are some things that you’ll need to keep in mind:

  • Rope Material

Typically, the best material for mooring lines is nylon because nylon ropes are among the strongest of the most commonly used ropes today. It’s especially well-suited for securing boats because it can absorb shock as well as stretch and return to its original length.

Additionally, nylon can resist abrasion better than other natural fibers. It can also resist the effects of UV exposure, mold, and water. However, nylon does degrade in extremely high temperatures, though exposure to high temperatures in a marine environment is unlikely.

  • Diameter

Mooring lines come in different diameters, and the diameter does indeed affect how well a rope will work for you. In general, a mooring rope size guide will tell you that you should have about an eighth of an inch of rope diameter for every 9 feet of boat length.

So, for example, your boat is no longer than 27 feet long. The diameter of the rope you use as a mooring line should be 3/8 inches. If you have a boat that’s 35 feet long, the diameter of the rope should be half an inch. For more information, you can consult a dock line size chart.

One thing you have to remember, however, is that you should also make allowances for the weight of the boat. If your boat is heavier than other boats of similar size, use a rope that’s thicker in diameter than recommended.

  • Length

You can also follow some rules of thumb to figure out the proper mooring line length. For example, the length of your bow lines and stern lines should be equivalent to half the length of your boat. If your boat is 35 feet long, your bow and stern lines should be 17.5 feet long.

Meanwhile, the length of your spring lines should be at least equivalent to the overall length of your boat. However, spring lines can also be longer than the length of your boat, but they should never be shorter.

Care and Maintenance

mooring-ropes-for-boats

While mooring lines are typically made to be highly durable, this doesn’t mean that they’re immune to damage. Fortunately, there are some things that you can do to help make sure that the mooring lines you use can function as permanent dock lines.

One of the most important things you can do is to inspect the entire lengths of your mooring lines at least once a month. Look for any signs of wear and tear. If you find yourself second-guessing whether or not a length of rope can still hold up, it’s best to just replace it as soon as possible.

Chafe is perhaps the most common type of damage experienced by mooring lines. This happens when the rope rubs up against hard surfaces or edges too hard and too often.

You can help prevent or reduce chafe by being more careful about the way you use your mooring lines. One thing you can do is to avoid changing the angle of the line too quickly. Another effective solution is the use of chafe guards or abrasion-resistant guards.

It’s also best to keep ropes away from extended exposure to direct sunlight. While these ropes are often made to be UV-resistant, it’s still best to reduce exposure anyway. Additionally, make sure to keep ropes away from heat sources, because extreme heat can cause significant damage.

Putting ropes away properly is definitely an important part of maintenance and care. It protects ropes from damage not just from the sun or the heat, but from chemicals used on boats as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

dock-line-size-chart

Docking lines can sometimes be easy to overlook, but good boat maintenance entails paying close attention to even the smaller aspects of your boat. This includes tools and accessories such as docking lines.

It’s therefore important to learn more about how to choose the right mooring lines for your watercraft. The information below can help you make the right decision.

Who makes the best rope for mooring lines?

Many rope manufacturers make perfectly good products that can function very well as mooring lines. However, certain brands definitely stand out from the rest. Kohree and the Better Boat have very good offerings, as do Amarine and INNOCEDEAR.

If you’re new to boating, it’s always helpful to ask for recommendations from more seasoned hobbyists. A neighbor or friend may be able to suggest some good brands for mooring ropes for boats, though it’s also important to do your own research.

What size mooring rope for my boat?

The length and diameter of your mooring line depend on the length and sometimes the weight of your boat. The longer the boat, the thicker and longer the mooring line should be.

Your mooring line should have an eighth of an inch in diameter for every 9 feet of boat length. So, for example, if your boat is 45 feet long, the diameter of the mooring line should be 5/8 inches.

Bow and stern lines, meanwhile, should be at least as long as half the length of your boat. Spring lines should be at least as long as the entire length of your boat, though they can also be longer.

How to use mooring lines

You can end up using 6 mooring lines to secure your boat:

  • Head line
  • Stern line
  • Forward breast line
  • Aft breast line
  • Forward or head spring
  • Back or aft spring

Be sure to learn how to arrange, tie, and secure these ropes properly. Once you’re more accustomed to handling mooring lines, you’ll be able to moor an entire boat by yourself in a matter of minutes. This is, of course, as long the conditions are quiet and calm.

Conclusion

Mooring lines come in different sizes, shapes, and colors, but they all have to have one thing in common: the ability to securely moor your boat. However, some options can do this far better than all the others.

Thus, when it comes to any product, it’s vital to find out which ones are the best in the bunch. That way, you’ll be spending your money on something that will actually work for you and meet your expectations. Ropes and cords for mooring lines are no different; make sure that you consider only the best options.

The best rope for mooring lines should be able to keep your boat secure while docked and should be able to remain durable for a long time. Fortunately, you have several options to choose from, so you’re sure to be able to find the right choice for your boat.

5/5 - (3 votes)