Tie up with confidence using ShoreMaster’s heavy-duty dock cleats. Made from corrosion-resistant materials and designed for simple installation, our dock cleats offer a secure, dependable tie-down point for boats, jet skis, and other watercraft. Available in multiple sizes and finishes to match your dock and boating needs.
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What is a cleat on a dock?
A dock cleat is a secure tie-down point mounted to the surface of a dock or pier, used to fasten boats and watercraft using rope or dock lines. Boat cleats provide a stable and convenient mooring option, helping prevent boats from drifting or colliding with other structures due to wind or waves.
Where to put cleats on a dock?
Dock cleats should be installed along the edges of your dock at regular intervals, especially near boat entry points, corners, and slip openings. Cleats should be positioned where dock lines naturally land when securing your boat. Proper placement ensures safe mooring and ease of access when docking or departing.
What size dock cleat do I need?
The right dock cleat size depends on the size and weight of your boat. A general rule is to choose a cleat that is 1 inch long for every 1/16 inch of dock line diameter. For example:
6-inch cleats for small boats and PWCs
8- to 10-inch cleats for boats 20–30 feet
12-inch or larger cleats for larger vessels or commercial docks
ShoreMaster offers a range of durable dock cleats to fit all boat sizes and rope diameters.
What is an alternative to boat cleats?
Alternatives to dock cleats include dock rings, mooring whips, piling hooks, or cleat-less tie-down systems like fender lines or quick-release mooring products. However, marine-grade dock cleats remain the most reliable and widely used solution for secure boat mooring, especially for long-term or high-traffic docking.
What is the proper way to install a dock cleat to ensure maximum strength?
To ensure maximum strength, dock cleats should be installed using marine-grade bolts or lag screws, anchored securely through the decking and into a structural support or backing plate. Align the cleat base flush with the dock surface, and tighten all hardware to prevent movement. For aluminum docks with track systems like ShoreMaster's InfinityTrack, use compatible cleat mounts for tool-free, secure installation.
What are the dock cleats made of and are they corrosion-resistant?
ShoreMaster dock cleats are made from marine-grade aluminum and stainless steel, offering excellent corrosion resistance in both saltwater and freshwater environments. These materials are built to withstand UV exposure, moisture, and the wear and tear of daily dock use—ensuring long-lasting durability and performance.
How many dock cleats should I have on my dock and how should they be spaced?
As a guideline, place one dock cleat every 10 to 15 feet along your dock. Install cleats at each end, corner, and along both sides of the dock where boats are moored. This ensures flexibility in tie-down options and provides safe, secure mooring points for different boat sizes and changing water levels.
Can these dock cleats be mounted on different types of dock surfaces?
Yes, ShoreMaster dock cleats can be mounted on various dock surfaces, including wood, aluminum, and composite decking. For ShoreMaster InfinityTrack docks, cleats are designed for tool-free mounting directly to the track system. For other dock types, use appropriate hardware to ensure a secure, load-bearing installation.
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