When you have a boat, you want to spend as much time as possible on the water. But your time on the water doesn’t necessarily have to be spent in your own backyard. So you need a place to keep your boat and make sure it’s in good working order, and that place can often be your backyard. But to actually get the boat from your backyard to the water, you need a good dock. A dock needs to be sturdy enough to hold a boat and have the right kind of water access, and if you have a high-end boat, you’re probably looking for a dock that has a certain level of luxury to it.
Luckily, there are plenty of high-quality docks available, and when it comes to the best boat dock cleats, you can find the right match for your dock regardless of whether you have a high-end or budget-friendly model.
Read on to learn more about how to select the right dock cleats for your needs.
Our Editor’s Best Boat Dock Cleats Reviews
Bestseller No. 1
Laorde Nylon Boat Cleats Black, 4"/5"/6"/8", Marine Grade Dock Cleats for Rope, Kayak, Mooring, Canoe, Maritime Decor, Tie Down (8 inch 4 Pack)
- VERSATILE SIZES: Available in 4-inch, 5-inch, 6-inch, and 8-inch lengths to accommodate different boat and dock requirements
- DURABLE MATERIAL: Constructed with heavy-duty nylon material designed to withstand marine environments and regular use
- MULTIPLE APPLICATIONS: Perfect for securing ropes on boats, kayaks, canoes, docks, and can also serve as maritime decorative pieces.the dock cleats serves as a reliable anchor point for trellises, garden netting, or other supports, preventing them from tipping over. the boat cleat securely hangs bicycles, ladders, or tools, maximizing space and maintaining a tidy area. In home decor, serving as unique hooks for coats, towels, or decorative items.
- EASY INSTALLATION: Features pre-drilled mounting holes for straightforward attachment to various surfaces
- SECURE DESIGN: Specially shaped with curved horns to prevent rope slippage while maintaining firm hold during mooring
Bestseller No. 2
VEITHI Dock Cleats 6 inch with Fastener,Hot Dipped Galvanized Cast Iron Boat Cleat Dock Boat Cleats, Rope Cleat Boat Dock Cleats Ideal for Dock, Decks, Piers for Tying up Boats,Marine Decor (4 Pack)
- 【Material】These dock cleats 6 inch are rough cast hot dipped galvanized Iron and offer excellent protection against rust and corrosion resistant. boat cleats metal are known for their strength, they are designed to withstand the rigors of marine environments.The galvanized coating on the iron cleats provides a strong defense against corrosion. The zinc layer acts as a protective barrier, effectively preventing the formation of rust and corrosion on the underlying metal
- 【Hexagonal Hole for Easy Installation】Our boat tie down cleats feature a hexagonal hole, making installation quick and easy. With this design, the bolt will stay in place while securing the cleat, eliminating the need to hold the bolt with one hand and tighten with the other
- 【Wide Footprint】Our boat dock cleats 6 inch feature a wide 0.9 inch bottom footprint, providing additional strength and stability. This wide footprint makes them perfect as cleat hooks for boat docks, decks, and piers, allowing for secure tying up of boats, kayaks, and jet skis. With this strong and reliable design, you can have peace of mind knowing that your watercraft will be safely secured
- 【Size&With Hardware】These boat cleat with bolts have a size of 6 inches in length and 1.3 inches in height, with a base measuring 2.2 inches x 0.9 inches. cleats for boat dock the mounting holes are spaced 1.25 inches center to center. The boat cleats come with hardware, including M6x3.25 inch (83mm) bolts and nuts. The boat tie off cleats are designed to be a perfect size to fit any use, and if needed, the bolts can be cut to the desired length
- 【Home Nautical Decor】Add a touch of maritime charm to your home with these galvanized dock cleats 6 inch. They are perfect for enhancing the decor of your maritime-themed, beach-inspired, garden, poolside, or coastal living spaces. These versatile cleats can be used in various creative ways, such as cabinet pulls, boat cleat hooks for towels,rustic coat hangers, curtain tie-backs, or nautical coat hooks. Let these 6in boat cleats bring a unique and rustic element to your home decor
Bestseller No. 3
Dock Cleats 8 inch With Fastener,Hot Dipped Galvanized Cast Iron Boat Cleat Dock Boat Cleats, Rope Cleat Boat Dock Cleats Ideal for Boat Docks, Decks, Piers for Tying up Boats,Marine Decor (4 Pack)
- 【Corrosion Resistance】These Rough Cast Hot Dipped galvanized boat cleats are highly strong and offer excellent protection against rust. The package includes 4 dock boat cleats along with 8 bolts and nuts, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The galvanized coating on the metal dock cleats provides a strong defense against corrosion. The zinc layer acts as a protective barrier, effectively preventing the formation of rust and corrosion on the underlying metal
- 【Hexagonal Hole for Easy Installation】Our boat tie down cleats feature a hexagonal hole, making installation quick and easy. With this design, the bolt will stay in place while securing the boat rope cleat, eliminating the need to hold the bolt with one hand and tighten with the other. This convenient feature simplifies the installation boat deck cleats process
- 【Wide Footprint for Strength】Our boat dock cleats feature a wide 1.2 inch and Long 2.8 inch bottom footprint, providing exceptional strength and stability to prevent boat drift. These dock cleats 8 inch galvanized are ideal for boat docks, decks, and piers, serving as reliable hooks for securing boats, kayaks, and jet skis. With our strong and robust design, you can have peace of mind knowing that your watercraft will remain safely anchored, even in challenging conditions
- 【Cleat Size & Bolts】These galvanized boat cleats have a size of 8 inches in length and 1.9 inches in height, with a base measuring 2.8 inches x 1.2 inches. The mounting holes are spaced 1.65 inches center to center. The dock cleats 8 inch with hardware, including M8x4.1 inch (105mm) bolts and nuts. The cleats for boat dock are designed to be a perfect size to fit any use, and if needed, the bolts can be cut to the desired length
- 【Home Nautical Decor】Add a touch of maritime charm to your home with these boat cleats 8 inch. They are perfect for enhancing the decor of your maritime-themed, beach-inspired, garden, poolside, or coastal living spaces. These versatile dock tie down cleats can be used in various creative ways, such as cabinet pulls, boat cleat hooks for towels, rustic coat hangers, curtain tie-backs, or nautical coat hooks. Let these boat cleats metal bring a unique and rustic element to your home decor
Bestseller No. 4
Seachoice Open Base Dock Cleat, Galvanized Gray Iron, 8 In.
- Cast iron galvanized 8 inch cleat is ideal for mounting on docks, seawalls and pilings
- Designed to securely handle multiple size dock lines
- Length: 8 inch
- Center to Center: 1.56 inch
- Install with 5/8" fasteners.
Bestseller No. 5
Laorde Boat Cleat 4 inch 5 inch 6 inch 8 inch 10 inch Open Base 316 Stainless Steel Dock Cleat Marine Grade Rope Cleat with Fasteners for Kayaks, Nautical Decor (Silver 4 inch 4 Pack)
- Dock Cleat 4 inch, Boat Cleat,Material: 316 stainless steel, highly polished；
- 4 inch Boat Cleats Open Base,pack of 4. Rope cleat work for dock lines ,mooring and etc.
- Marine Dock Cleat Stainless Steel, small size cleat,4 inch Cleats ( 102 mm overall length),We offer boat cleat stainless steel 5 inch, 6 inch 8 inch 10 inch, please find in our shop；
- 316 Stainless Steel Boat Cleat 4 inch, Heavy Duty Boat Hollow Base Cleat with Screw.Stainless steel cleats easy line tie-off for any boat have four holes for attachment.
- 4 inch Boat Cleats Open Base,easy line tie-off for any Boat,Suitable for marine boat yacht,watercraft,Marine Dock Cleat,Home Decorative,boat docks, decks, piers for tying up boats, kayaks, jet ski's,etc. Laorde is a professional Marine hardware accessories brand .
Bestseller No. 6
4 inch Electrophoretic Coated Black Dock Cleats Boat Cleats, Boat Dock Cleats Rope Cleat With Hardware Ideal for Boat, Decks, Piers for Tying up Boats,Marine Decor,Boat Ties,Cleats for Boat(4 Pack)
- 【Sturdy & Strong Material】These dock cleats 4 inch are strong iron surface electrophoretic coating black and offer excellent protection against rust and corrosion resistant. the dock cleats for boats can stand up to a variety of weather; boat cleats metal are known for their strength, they are designed to withstand the rigors of marine environments, including exposure to saltwater, UV rays, and physical stress from ropes and line
- 【Corrosion Resistance】Dock cleat black are professional grade open-based cleats that are great for use on deck and piers. They are made to withstand the weather, saltwater they will hold up for years to come it that harsh environment. It can be quickly applied to variety of ropes and docks
- 【Wide Footprint for Strength】Our rope cleats 4 inch feature a wide 7/8 inch bottom footprint, providing additional strength and stability. This wide footprint makes them perfect as cleat hooks for boat docks, decks, and piers; the boat tie off cleats allowing for secure tying up of boats, kayaks, and jet skis. With this strong and reliable design, you can have peace of mind knowing that your watercraft will be safely secured
- 【Size&With Hardware】These boat dock cleats 4 inch with screws have a size of 4 inches in length and 1-1/8 inches in height, with a base measuring 1-7/8 inches x 7/8 inches. cleats for boats the mounting holes are spaced 7.5/8 inches center to center. The dock cleats come with hardware, including M5x1.57 inch stainless steel screws. black boat cleats are compatible with a wide range of boat materials, easily installed to boat decks, docks, or other structures
- 【Home Nautical Decor】Add a touch of maritime charm to your home with these dock cleats 4 inch black metal. They are perfect for enhancing the decor of your maritime-themed, beach-inspired,poolside, or coastal living spaces. These versatile cleats can be used in various creative ways, such as cabinet pulls, boat cleat hooks for towels,boat cleat wall hook, rustic coat hangers, curtain tie-backs, or nautical coat hooks. Let these boat cleats bring a unique and rustic element to your home decor
Bestseller No. 7
Racewill 4 Pack 5 inch Boat Folding Cleats, 316 Stainless Steel Flip-up Marine Dock Rope Cleat with Backing Plates and Screws, Compatible with Kayak Yacht Ski Boat
- Anti Corrosion: Folding dock cleats and all screws are made of 316 stainless steel, which has stronger rust prevention and wear resistance and is not easily corroded by salt water.
- Folding Design: The boat deck cleats can be flipped up and down, easily ejected when needed, and completely folded flat when not in use, eliminating the risk of tripping or injury.
- Smooth Surface: The dock tie down cleats adopt polishing process, with a smooth surface and good flatness. Smooth edges will not wear any ropes or dock lines easily.
- Total Length: 5 ". Total Width: 1.75". Elevated Height: 1.5 ". Folded Height: 0.43". Bolt Hole Spacing: 2.75"(center to center). Suitable for yachts, kayaks, skis, and decks, ect.
- Hardware：The package also includes not only two backing plates to reinforce the cleats and prevent them from falling off, but two types of bolts and screws, which do not need to be purchased separately.
Bestseller No. 8
VEITHI Dock Cleat 4 inch - Hot Dipped Galvanized Boat Cleats, Rope Cleat, Boat Dock Cleats with Hardware Ideal for Small Boat,Deck,Piers for Tying up Boats,Marine Decor,Boat Tie Down Cleats (4 Pack)
- 【Sturdy & Strong Material】These boat cleats 4 inch are rough cast hot dipped galvanized Iron and offer excellent protection against rust and corrosion resistant. The zinc layer acts as a protective barrier, effectively preventing the formation of rust and corrosion on the underlying metal. the dock cleats for boats can stand up to a variety of weather; boat cleats metal are known for their strength, they are designed to withstand the rigors of marine environments
- 【Corrosion Resistance】Galvanized dock cleat are professional grade open-based cleats that are great for use on deck and piers. They are made to withstand the weather, saltwater they will hold up for years to come it that harsh environment. 4 inch galvanized boat cleats can be quickly applied to variety of ropes and docks
- 【Wide Footprint for Strength】Our rope cleats 4 inch feature a wide 7/8 inch bottom footprint, providing additional strength and stability. This wide footprint makes them perfect as cleat hooks for boat docks, decks, and piers; the boat tie off cleats allowing for secure tying up of boats, kayaks, and jet skis. With this strong and reliable design, you can have peace of mind knowing that your watercraft will be safely secured
- 【Size&With Hardware】These metal boat dock cleat have a size of 4 inches in length and 1-1/8 inches in height, with a base measuring 1-7/8 inches x 7/8 inches. cleats for boats the mounting holes are spaced 7.5/8 inches center to center. The dock boat cleats come with hardware, including M5x1.57 inch stainless steel screws. galvanized boat cleats are compatible with a wide range of boat materials, easily installed to boat decks, docks, or other structures
- 【Home Nautical Decor】Add a touch of maritime charm to your home with these small 4 inch cleats for boat. They are perfect for enhancing the decor of your maritime-themed, beach-inspired,poolside, or coastal living spaces. These versatile cleats can be used in various creative ways, such as cabinet pulls, boat cleat hooks for towels,boat cleat wall hook, rustic coat hangers, curtain tie-backs, or nautical coat hooks. Let these boat cleats bring a unique and rustic element to your home decor
Bestseller No. 9
Laorde Nylon Boat Cleats Black, 4"/5"/6"/8", Marine Grade Dock Cleats for Rope, Kayak, Mooring, Canoe, Maritime Decor, Tie Down (4 inch 4 Pack)
- VERSATILE SIZES: Available in 4-inch, 5-inch, 6-inch, and 8-inch lengths to accommodate different boat and dock requirements
- DURABLE MATERIAL: Constructed with heavy-duty nylon material designed to withstand marine environments and regular use
- MULTIPLE APPLICATIONS: Perfect for securing ropes on boats, kayaks, canoes, docks, and can also serve as maritime decorative pieces.the dock cleats serves as a reliable anchor point for trellises, garden netting, or other supports, preventing them from tipping over. the boat cleat securely hangs bicycles, ladders, or tools, maximizing space and maintaining a tidy area. In home decor, serving as unique hooks for coats, towels, or decorative items.
- EASY INSTALLATION: Features pre-drilled mounting holes for straightforward attachment to various surfaces
- SECURE DESIGN: Specially shaped with curved horns to prevent rope slippage while maintaining firm hold during mooring
Bestseller No. 10
Boat Cleats 10 inch (4 Pack) - Electrophoretic Coated Boat Dock Cleats Black, Rope Cleat, Anchor Line Cleat,Dock Cleats With Hardware Ideal for Boat Docks, Piers for Tying up Boats, Marine Decor
- 【Corrosion Resistance】These electrophoretic coated cast iron boat cleats are highly strong and offer excellent protection against rust. The package includes 4 dock boat cleats along with 8 bolts and nuts, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The electrophoretic coating on the metal dock cleats provides a strong defense against corrosion, it acts as a protective barrier, effectively preventing the formation of rust and corrosion on the underlying metal
- 【Hexagonal Hole for Easy Installation】Our boat tie down cleats feature a hexagonal hole, making installation quick and easy. With this design, the bolt will stay in place while securing the boat rope cleat, eliminating the need to hold the bolt with one hand and tighten with the other. This convenient feature simplifies the installation boat deck cleats process
- 【Wide Footprint for Strength】Our boat dock cleats feature a wide 1.6 inch and Long 4 inch bottom footprint, providing exceptional strength and stability to prevent boat drift. These dock cleats 10 inch are ideal for boat docks, decks, and piers, serving as reliable hooks for securing boats, kayaks, and jet skis. With our strong and robust design, you can have peace of mind knowing that your watercraft will remain safely anchored, even in challenging conditions
- 【Cleat Size & Bolts】These boat cleats have a size of 10 inches in length and 2.6 inches in height, with a base measuring 4 inches x 1.6 inches. The mounting holes are spaced 2.5 inches center to center. The dock cleats 10 inch with hardware, including M10x6 inch (152mm) bolts and nuts. The cleats for boat dock are designed to be a perfect size to fit any use, and if needed, the bolts can be cut to the desired length
- 【Home Nautical Decor】Add a touch of maritime charm to your home with these boat cleats 10 inch. They are perfect for enhancing the decor of your maritime-themed, beach-inspired, garden, poolside, or coastal living spaces. These versatile dock tie down cleats can be used in various creative ways, such as cabinet pulls, boat cleat hooks for towels, rustic coat hangers, curtain tie-backs, or nautical coat hooks. Let these boat cleats metal bring a unique and rustic element to your home decor
Best Boat Dock Cleats Buying Guide
Before choosing the best boat dock cleats you should consider following options:
1. Location: Given that boat docks are typically on water (either fresh or salt), you will want to make sure the cleats you choose are appropriate for that environment.
Some cleats are made of metal, which is perfect for fresh water. However, metal cleats are not recommended for docks on saltwater environments since they will corrode and damage your boat.
Instead, look for boat cleats made of poly or plastic that will stand up to the elements and won’t damage your boat.
2. Number and Combination: Decide how you want the cleats to work in terms of number and combination.
Some cleats require only one hook to hold the boat in place while others require both hooks to be engaged to secure the boat.
Also, some cleats are designed to hold the boat by the bow and stern, while others can hold the boat by one side.
3. Design: While all cleats probably hold boats in place, the style and design of the cleats matters.
Some cleats are designed in a way that allows the boat to be tilted up and out of the water while others are not.
Some cleats have a wide or narrow base and others have a wider or smaller base. The base will determine how much the cleat sinks into the dock.
4. Security: Understand the security of the cleats you are considering. Some cleats are designed to hold the boat in place temporarily, while others are designed to hold the boat in place for an extended period of time.
Some cleats are designed to keep the boat in place even during storms and high winds. On the other end of the spectrum, some cleats can only hold the boat in place for a short period of time.
5. Cost: The cost of the cleats you choose should be taken into account. Some cleats are more expensive than others. Go with cleats that meet your needs but aren’t necessarily the most expensive.
6. Maintenance: Knowing the maintenance needed for your boat cleats is important. Some cleats need to be painted regularly, while others don’t.
You will want cleats that can last a long time, so they won’t need to be replaced often.
What else you should know about boat dock cleats
1. What are the different types of boat dock cleats?
There are many different types of boat dock cleats, but the most common are the flush-mount, surface-mount, and through-bolt cleats.
2. What are the benefits of using boat dock cleats?
Boat dock cleats are typically used to secure a boat to a dock. They are also used to help tie up a boat when mooring. Cleats can be helpful in a variety of other ways as well, such as helping to secure a tarp over a boat or acting as a makeshift handle when boarding a boat.
3. How do you properly install boat dock cleats?
There are a few different ways to install boat dock cleats, but the most common method is to drill holes in the dock and then screw the cleats in place.
4. How do you remove boat dock cleats?
To remove boat dock cleats, you will need to unscrew the bolts that hold them in place. Once the bolts are removed, you can simply lift the cleats out of the holes.
5. What are some common problems with boat dock cleats?
The most common problems with boat dock cleats are that they are either too small or too close together. Other problems include cleats that are too far apart or too close to the edge of the dock.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best boat dock cleats. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best boat dock cleats will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.