transient dockline inventory -single vs. double braid?

[hazmat17]

We keep Avalon (Freedom 28, 6,000#) on a mooring. Occasionally make a quick stop at the marina for a washdown etc. Plan to actually cruise a bit this summer. Anyway, she needs new docklines.

Generally speaking, with a floating dock, a bow & stern line plus 1 or 2 springs will get the job done. Ocasionally you encounter a perpendicular piling arrangement with 2 pilings off a bulkhead (think Oak Bluffs for those familiar with Martha's vinyard) where you need 2 bow, 2 stern and 2 springs.

So I'm thinking (4) 20' bow & stern lines (one end spliced loop). Plus (2) 30' spring lines with one end looped.

Now to the questions

Has anyone had occasion to need 4 spring lines??? Or should I go to 40' for the springs such that I can attach mid ship and run the line fore and aft yeilding 2 (shorter) springs from 1 line.

Any recommendations on a single vs double braid dockline? - I'm thinking 1/2" diameter. I'm drawn to single braid for it's ease of coiling and simpler? splicing for example NE Ropes megabraid II in 12mm (1/2").

[svHyLyte]

Four Springs might be needed depending upon weather. Double braid Nylon has the advantage of greater chafe resistence in the sense that the inner core is protected by the outer even though one should use chafe protection anyway.

FWIW...

[SVAuspicious]

I have used as many as six dock lines in transient slips although that is rare. 2 bow, 2 stern, 2 springs.

Don't often hear anyone complain that a line was too long. Just sayin' *grin*

On my 40' boat I carry four lines about 25', two about 35', and one 60'. Oh - I also have a full spool (about 200') stashed away just in case. Never needed the spool of line, but makes me feel better to have it. YMMV.

[blt2ski]

Here I thought 4 10' lines were ample. So far, no issues for any combo around puget sound. BUT, one does need to look at where they sail at. 2 -50' lines with 18" loops are required to go thru the locks to and from puget sound to lake washington. Altho some 20-25' ft ones will work in the small locks, 50 will be needed for the large ones.

Marty