On Thu, 08 Jun 2006 02:50:53 GMT, Courtney Thomas
wrote:

What is your experience and recommendation regarding mooring pendant and
it's length ?

Why ?
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Assuming you mean "pendant" as the entire system, conventional wisdom
is heavy chain equal to at least 3 times the maximum water depth. The
first 2 lengths should be very heavy and are intended to lay on the
bottom most of the time, possibly as big as 3/4 inch or larger
depending on boat weight and harbor exposure. The last chain length
needs to be somewhat lighter to avoid pulling the mooring ball under,
typically something like 1/2 inch for a heavier boat, 3/8ths for a 30
or smaller. The mooring ball should have enough flotation to support
the last chain length at high tide with a healthy safety margin left
over. I prefer the type of ball that allows the chain to pass through
middle, secured by a large shackle on top.

The nylon lines going to the boat should be as heavy as your bow
chocks and cleats allow, and shackled to the top of the mooring ball.
Attach a few small floats to prevent the lines from going under the
ball and wrapping around the chain. Use heavy chafing gear such as
sewn leather or canvas fire hose material at the critical points,
typically just above the mooring ball shackle, and also at the bow
chocks. If you have a choice, position the bow chocks to be well
clear of the anchor and bow pulpit.