Scuff guard for the hull
There is no rubbing strake installed on our boat. This can lead to unpleasant scratches when mooring in the box with poles, as it is not always possible to avoid contact with the timbers. In our search for a solution, we found various large fender cushions and also heavy braided ropes (Wieling) that protect the boat instead of a rubbing strake. However, the fender cushions were quite expensive and the rope, although very strong, was extremely heavy. That's why we came up with something ourselves: pool noodles in a fire hose. The fairly pressure-resistant buoyancy aids are inserted into the three-inch diameter hose and that's it!
Michael Schlüter, Neuenkirchen
Your yacht doesn't have a rubbing strake either? This Alternatives are available for the classic wooden bumper. And here we have more Fender lifehacks compiled.
Comfort package for Sweden fans
Alongside the skerry - for many a symbol of sailing holidays in Sweden. The problem: the skerry rarely drops vertically under water. The draught therefore prevents the yacht from lying directly on the rocks. To increase the lateral clearance accordingly, fenders are suitable: two ball fenders are placed on a foundation of four long fenders lashed together. The ball fenders must be secured crosswise with two lines each to prevent them from slipping.
Manfred Schmidt, Stampe
Aerodynamic fender
At a certain wind force, our mast begins to vibrate. This movement is transmitted to the entire boat. What helps : pull up a fender directly in front of the mast on a halyard and brace it downwards. This interrupts the airflow and keeps the mast steady.
Steffi von Wolff, by e-mail
More Reader tips for peaceful nights on board can be found here. And if you are particularly annoyed by rigging noises, there are in this article Remedy.
Quickly make your own shock absorbers
You don't always have mooring lines with shock absorbers to hand. On rough nights with wind and waves in the harbour, we simply put small fenders between the mooring lines on board. These absorb the force when we pull in. The pressure on the lines is gently absorbed in the truest sense of the word and the unpleasant jerking stops. The method works on both fixed and floating pontoons, and the crew can sleep peacefully again.
Wolfgang Werner, Wuppertal
More Tips on shock absorbers can be found here.
Do you have any advice for other sailors?
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