Roving Fender

A portable fender kept ready to be positioned where unexpected contact is likely.

It supplements fenders already rigged for berthing or rafting and can be moved to a changing contact point between vessels, a quay, pile or lock wall. A crew member may control it by a line, but should not use hands or feet as the cushioning surface.

The fender must be large and strong enough for the gap and movement and should have a secure line and attachment. Crew should remain inside the vessel and clear of crushing zones; a roving fender cannot compensate for excessive approach speed or an unsafe manoeuvre.