What is the recommended mooring scope?

• A. 5 to 1
• B. 7 to 1
• C. 3 to 1
• D. 9 to 1

Answer: (B)

Mooring scope is the length of the mooring line relative to the water depth. A longer scope gives the boat more line to absorb the motion of wind, waves, and tides, reducing strain on the line and cleats and helping prevent the vessel from dragging or chafing the mooring.

Seven to one is the standard choice because it provides a good balance: enough line to accommodate tide changes and vessel swing without requiring an excessive amount of rope. Shorter scopes, like three to one or five to one, can leave the boat too tight against changes in depth or gusts, increasing the risk of dragging or shock loads. A nine to one scope is often more than necessary and can be impractical in many situations, though it might be used in particularly exposed or deep-water harbors.

So, the recommended mooring scope is seven to one.