Using 8mm fender line always hang fenders so they are just above the surface of the water. Tie them off with a couple of half-hitches to the rail, stanchion or a cleat as low as possible on your boat – this prevents the fenders from swinging in a wide arc and ending up on top of the quay or pontoon and also causes less abrasion.
If leaving the boat unattended for long periods of time perhaps use a couple of extra half-hitches and ensure the fenders are secure and at the right height.
The correct rafting configuration
A round turn & 2 half hitches
The Best Configuration For Mooring on Pontoon or Quay
Use at least 3 fenders when docking – one at maximum beam and one fore and aft. We would also recommend using at least one round fender (A series) where the bow flares so as to keep the line of fenders straight. This will stop the boat pivoting on the central fender.
Docking Configuration
The Best Configuration For Rafting
Group 3 standard fenders (F, G or HTM series) close to main beam then position a round fender (A series) fore and aft. If you are worried about abrasion from otherpeople's dirty fenders when rafting then consider buying a fender cushion or blanket to hang between your boat and their fenders.
Rafting
Configuration
Tying Fenders Horizontally
For work boats, tenders or dinghies the fenders can be fixed horizontally just under the gunwhales. For this use either the HTM (hole through middle) range threaded onto a single line attached fore and aft, or use standard F Series or G Series with individual fixings between each fender. These fixings can be stainless steel eye bolts or eye screws.