Docking your boat doesn't mean it will automatically be protected from damage, as being out of the water is not enough to keep it safe when not in use. Protecting your boat while it's docked is not difficult, but is part of responsible boat ownership and will help to prolong the life of your boat. Consider a few tips on how to do this.

1. Invest in a good dock canopy or cover

A dock canopy or cover will protect your boat from harsh sunlight, rain, and even birds and other pests. This will keep your boat cleaner, help to avoid having birds actually nest in your boat, and will reduce the fading of your paint. A good dock canopy or cover is not expensive and these can be custom built over your dock or you can purchase replacement covers that stretch over the dock framework. Opt for one with sides or flaps that offer even more protection from weather and other damaging elements.

2. Pull your dock lines tight

Dock lines are any ropes you use to secure your boat and other accessories, and you want to pull them tight to keep your boat secure but also to protect against chafing. If your dock lines rub against your boat this can cause wear to the body of the boat and chip away at the paint. There are anti-chafing materials you can purchase to protect the outside of your boat but pulling your lines tight and securing them to the dock can be the best option for protecting your boat.

3. Use fenders outside your boat

Fenders are special cushions you place outside the boat so that it doesn't smack against the dock. These may not come with your boat when you purchase it, so invest in a good set before you first dock your boat. Be sure you pull the fenders back up and inside the boat before you take it back into the water so they don't cause drag.

4. Add foam to the dock bumpers

For water this is often very choppy, you can add an extra layer of protection to the dock bumpers by adding a layer of foam. For a quick fix, buy a few pool noodles and cut them in half along their length and screw or nail the halves into the dock bumpers. This foam is watertight and can protect your boat from damage done by slapping against the bumpers of the dock.

Talk to your local boat experts, such as Waterway Boat Lift Covers, for more information.