Fender

A resilient buffer placed between a vessel and a berth or another vessel to reduce contact damage.

Portable fenders may be inflatable, foam-filled, cylindrical, spherical or flat and are suspended at the expected contact points and heights. Fixed berth fender systems serve the same broad purpose on quays and pontoons but are engineered for their site and vessel range.

Fenders are not intended to stop an uncontrolled approach or carry mooring loads. Size, number, pressure, attachment and placement must suit freeboard, hull shape, tide, surge and neighbouring structures, and lines should be arranged so fenders do not ride up, roll out or become trapped.