7 Boat Dock Accessories to Consider

Adding a few dock accessories is a great way to make the most out of your dock. Exactly what you decide to add will depend on how you plan to use your dock. Below are a few ideas for a few different purposes to get you started.

1. Dock Bumpers And Fenders

Fenders are a common and popular product, as they protect both your dock and any boats that decide to pull up alongside it. Your dock will be better protected against accidental impacts, and you won’t have to worry so much about scraping your boat against the dock while it’s tied up. There are a number of different bumper and fender designs available, so be sure to check out all your options.

2. Dock Cleats

This is a good accompaniment to your bumpers or fenders. Cleats allow you to easily tie up your boat to your dock. They come in a variety of materials, such as galvanized steel and stainless steel, and some are even designed as “safety cleats” that allow the cleat to fold down out of the way when not in use.

3. Fish Cleaning Tables

If you have a dock you like to fish off of, adding a fish cleaning table is a great accessory. Not only that, but they can be used for other food preparation outdoors, for bait preparation, and any number of other things. Some key features to look for are ways to easily drain and/or clean the cutting surface, and holders for filet knives and other tools.

4. Dock Bench

This is another great addition for the dock fisherman, or for anybody that just wants to sit and relax on their dock. These come in a variety of designs and styles, some of which are even included in your dock plans. Or, for a more personal touch, you can always build your own wooden dock benches.

5. Dock Boxes

If you’re looking for some dock storage, you’ll want some good dock boxes. These come in a wide variety of designs. You can choose to have them attached or left free from the dock. Look for designs with galvanized or stainless steel hardware and a lockable latch. Some also come with such features as gas shock lifts, which help keep the lid open regardless of waves that hit your dock.

6. Dock Ladders

Having a dock ladder is always a good idea. These are great if you like to go swimming off your dock, but also come in handy if somebody should accidentally fall in the water. When purchasing a dock ladder, be sure to consider the distance between your dock and the water’s surface, especially if tides raise and lower the water level around your dock. A handy feature to also look for are ladders that can be raised out of the water when not in use.

7. Hand Rails

Hand rails are important to have for those that regularly tie boats up to their dock. Having hand rails attached to the edge of your dock for support, especially with waves rocking your boat and dock, could mean the different between climbing safely in and out of your boat or taking a dangerous fall between the boat and the dock.