Bollard

A strong post on a quay, pier or pontoon to which a vessel’s mooring lines are secured.

Bollards are fixed to a structure capable of accepting the loads imposed by moored vessels. Their shape allows one or more lines to be led around them without slipping off. On board a vessel, a similar pair of strong posts is more precisely called bitts, although “bollard” is also used for some shipboard fittings.

Mooring lines should be led to suitable fittings without damaging turns or unnecessary chafe. Crew should remain clear of a heavily loaded line and its potential snap-back area, because a failed line or fitting can release energy suddenly.