Fenders for tenders, motor boats and docks
A fender is an inflatable PVC buffer that protects the hull of your boat from scratches and impacts when mooring or in a lock. We stock the full Majoni range (cylindrical fenders, drop fenders, dumpy fenders, ball fenders, dock fenders and step fenders) plus the JOBE Fender, 45 models in total in sizes from 9 to 30 cm diameter. For all common boats from a small inflatable to a 12-metre motor yacht you will find the right size fender.
Which fender size for which boat length?
| Boat length | Fender diameter | Number per side |
|---|---|---|
| up to 4 m (inflatable) | 9-10 cm (Majoni 30x9, 42x10) | 2 |
| 5-6 m tender | 10-12 cm (Majoni 55x12) | 2-3 |
| 6-8 m motor boat | 12-16 cm (Majoni 60x16, 65x22) | 3 |
| 8-9 m | 16-22 cm (Majoni 80x25) | 3-4 |
| 9-12 m | 22-30 cm (Majoni 90x30) | 4 |
| dock (fixed) | Jetty or Dock fender | per metre of edge |
For permanent protection at the dock, use a straight Jetty or Dock fender instead of loose fenders. Combine with our mooring lines and a fastfender clip for quick hanging at the correct height.
Cylinder, drop, dumpy or ball: which model when?
Cylindrical fenders are the classic choice with an eye top and bottom, suitable for horizontal and vertical hanging along the hull. Drop fenders only hang vertically and taper, ideal for low hulls where you want to drape over rubrails. Dumpy fenders are short and thick for unexpected contact against piles or walls in tight spots. Ball fenders serve as anchor ball on the bow or as a large buffer in lock passages where bigger ships come alongside.
Frequently asked questions about fenders
How many fenders do I need per side?
Rule of thumb: one fender per three metres of boat, with a minimum of two per side. A 6-metre tender is fine with two fenders to starboard and two to port. For a 9-metre motor boat three to four per side is sensible. In a busy lock an extra fender on bow and stern helps to catch rotating movement. If you mostly have a fixed berth, you can reduce the on-board count by mounting a dock fender. For tow or push duty like an inflatable behind a bigger boat, carry at least four spare fenders.
How firm should I inflate a fender?
A correctly inflated fender feels firm but still gives a little under pressure: about 1.5 cm of finger pressure is the right firmness. An over-inflated fender splits more easily on hot summer days because the air expands and stresses the seams. An under-inflated fender deforms and offers too little protection. Use a bicycle pump with a fender adapter or a dedicated fender pump. Our Majoni fenders ship empty to save freight, so allow a couple of minutes pumping per fender the first time.
How do I fix a fender with a fastfender clip?
A fastfender is a plastic clip with toothed ribs that holds the fender line at the right height without tying a clove hitch or bowline. You thread the line through the two holes of the clip, hang the fender on a cleat or rail and clamp the whole thing at the desired height: done. Height adjustment takes seconds. For tenders and motor boats with frequently changing water level due to tide or wash this is much handier than fixed knots. Available in black, light grey and blue to match your boat.
What is the difference between Jetty and Dock fenders?
Both fix to the dock but differ in placement. Jetty fenders mount vertically on the side edge of the dock: they protect the edge where the boat passes. Available in straight (50x10, 100x12) and corner (31x10) versions for dock corners. Dock fenders are thinner and mount flat on the dock deck surface where the boat lands. The Majoni Dock 50x12x7 and 100x12x7 are popular for marinas. Both are made of solid PVC and stand up to years of outdoor use.
In stock? Order before 17:00 and it ships the same day. Otherwise, as soon as possible. Not sure which product fits your boat? Our specialists in Joure are happy to help.
