Not All Mooring Bollards Are Built the Same—Here’s How to Choose the Right One
When it comes to docking, mooring bollards are the unsung heroes. They don’t get much attention—until they fail. And when they do, the consequences can be costly. If you’re planning a new marine project or upgrading your current setup, choosing the right type of mooring bollard is more important than most people realize.
At Marine Structures, we work with ports, engineers, contractors, and marina managers every day, helping them select bollards that are tough enough to handle the job—and smart enough to make installation and use efficient. So if you’ve ever wondered why there are so many bollard types (single bitt, tee head, horn, kidney, and so on), this breakdown will help make sense of it all.
Start With Load Requirements and Line Angles
The first factor to consider when choosing a mooring bollard is the load it will be handling. Are you mooring small recreational boats, or are you dealing with large commercial vessels that exert serious tension on mooring lines? The size, type, and frequency of traffic all play into which bollard is best.
Then there’s line angle—something many overlook. Depending on the layout of your berth, ships may tie off from multiple angles. In those cases, a horn bollard is a great fit because it accommodates lines approaching from various directions without slippage. On the other hand, tee head and double bitt bollards offer extra security for heavier loads, with shapes that help guide and secure ropes in place more effectively.
Material and Environmental Conditions Matter
Don’t forget where your bollard is going. Saltwater exposure, freeze/thaw cycles, and frequent contact with heavy, wet mooring lines can all wear down low-grade materials over time. That’s why we offer bollards made from high-quality cast steel or ductile iron—materials built to stand up to the harshest marine environments.
Also think about coating and corrosion resistance. Depending on your location and maintenance plan, you may want bollards with epoxy finishes or hot-dip galvanizing to extend their service life.
Space Constraints? Choose Smart
Some docks and marinas just don’t have room for a large tee head or double bitt setup. In these cases, kidney bollards can be a compact yet powerful option. They may look small, but they’re engineered for strength and stability—making them ideal for tight or irregular dock configurations.
Another smart space-saver? Single bitt bollards. Their vertical design allows for clean installation without taking up too much real estate. They’re a popular choice for straightforward mooring in ports and terminals with predictable line angles and vessel types.
Get the Right Fit from the Start
When you pick the wrong bollard, it doesn’t just create headaches during mooring—it can damage ships, endanger crew, and lead to expensive repairs. That’s why we always recommend working with a supplier who understands marine engineering, not just steel casting.
We’ve helped clients across the U.S. and internationally select mooring systems that fit their specs, budgets, and timelines—and we’re happy to help guide you, too.
Looking for guidance on your next marine project? Browse our full bollard lineup, or explore additional marine cleats and fender systems to complete your mooring setup. For personalized support and fast turnaround, request a custom quote today.