Jetty - The Indispensable On Water Walkway
A Smarter Way to Build on the Water
When it comes to providing stable access to the water, floating docks are often referred to as jetties due to their shared purpose of offering secure platforms along the water’s edge. These docks serve many purposes for boaters, property owners, and anyone looking to improve their waterfront experience. In this blog, we’ll explore what floating docks (or jetties) are, how they work, and why they’re the ideal solution for a variety of water-based activities.
What is a Jetty
Traditionally, a jetty is a structure that extends out into the water, usually constructed from materials like wood, concrete, or metal. Jetties are built to protect harbors, stabilize shorelines, and offer docking points for boats. While fixed jetties have been in use for centuries, floating docks have become the modern alternative for waterfront property owners, providing more flexibility and adaptability.
A floating dock, or jetty, works similarly to a traditional jetty but has one distinct advantage—mobility. Unlike fixed jetties, floating docks rise and fall with changing water levels, ensuring they remain functional no matter the tide. This feature makes floating docks an ideal choice for a wide range of locations and water conditions.
The Benefits of Floating Docks as Jetties
Floating docks offer several key benefits over traditional fixed jetties. Here’s why they’re a smart option for property owners looking to maximize their waterfront space:
1. Adaptable to Changing Water Levels
One of the main drawbacks of traditional fixed jetties is that they are vulnerable to changing water levels. During high tides, docks may become submerged, while low water levels can leave them exposed, making docking difficult or dangerous. Floating docks, however, adjust to water fluctuations, ensuring they remain level and accessible no matter what the tide does. This makes them perfect for areas with seasonal flooding, tidal changes, or fluctuating water levels.
2. Easy to Install and Relocate
Floating docks are much easier to install than fixed jetties, and many models offer flexibility for reconfiguration or relocation. Whether you need a temporary dock for seasonal use or want to reposition your dock for different needs, floating docks can be quickly moved or modified. This adaptability is especially helpful in recreational locations or for property owners who want to change their setup based on weather or seasonal demands.
3. Versatile Use
Floating docks can serve as both temporary and semi-permanent platforms, making them incredibly versatile. Whether you’re using the dock for boating, fishing, hosting an event, or simply enjoying the view, floating docks provide a stable platform that can be easily reconfigured for different purposes. With the ability to adjust the dock layout, you’re never stuck with one fixed design.
4. Support for Multiple Watercraft
Much like traditional jetties, floating docks are designed to accommodate various watercraft, including boats, jet skis, and kayaks. With the right layout, you can expand the dock to support multiple watercraft and optimize the space for your needs. Many floating docks also offer features like drive-on capabilities, making it easier to load and unload your watercraft without assistance.
How Floating Docks Protect Watercraft
One of the biggest advantages of floating docks as jetties is their ability to protect your watercraft. Unlike fixed jetties, which are stationary and can’t adjust to changing water levels, floating docks rise and fall with the water, ensuring a stable platform for your boats and personal watercraft (PWCs) regardless of the conditions. Here’s how floating docks protect your watercraft:
1. Reduced Exposure to Waves and Currents
Floating docks are often designed to minimize the impact of waves and wakes, which can cause damage to boats and watercraft. The structure of many floating docks allows water to flow underneath or through the dock, reducing the force of waves and providing a smoother, more stable experience. This wave-dispersing capability is especially important in areas with rough water or frequent boat traffic.
2. Secured Storage for Watercraft
Just like traditional jetties, floating docks provide a safe place to secure your watercraft. Many floating dock systems offer secure tie-down points, ensuring your boats and PWCs remain in place, even during rough weather or high water. Additionally, floating docks can include dry-docking or drive-on capabilities, making it easy to park your watercraft without extra help.
3. Protection During Low Water Conditions
Fixed jetties can leave your boat stranded when water levels drop, potentially causing damage or making it difficult to access your watercraft. Floating docks solve this problem by adjusting with the water levels, ensuring that your boat stays supported even in low water conditions. This feature ensures the safety of your watercraft, no matter the season or water fluctuations.
Floating Docks as Event and Lifestyle Platforms
In addition to their practical uses for boating and watercraft protection, floating docks can serve as versatile event and lifestyle platforms. Their stability and accessibility make them perfect for transforming your waterfront into an entertainment space.
1. Event Hosting
Floating docks provide an excellent space for hosting events on the water. Whether you're holding a small gathering, a barbecue, or a larger event, a floating dock offers a unique setting. Their modular design allows you to expand or modify the space to fit your needs, providing flexibility for different types of gatherings. And because floating docks don’t require in-water construction, there’s no mess or disruption when setting up for an event.
2. Shoreline Living
For property owners looking to enhance their shoreline experience, floating docks can be integrated seamlessly with the land. Whether you want a stylish access point to the water, a functional area for launching kayaks or paddleboards, or a relaxing space to enjoy the view, floating docks make it easy to bring waterfront living to life. These docks provide a stable, elevated platform that connects your property with the water in a functional and aesthetically pleasing way.
3. Work and Business Access
Floating docks also serve as valuable tools for businesses or professionals who need stable access to waterfront locations. Whether you're operating a water taxi service, ferrying goods, or managing a marina, a floating dock provides a reliable way to access your business location. Floating docks offer stability, flexibility, and professionalism, making them ideal for businesses located on the water.
Conclusion
Floating docks, or jetties, are an excellent investment for anyone looking to maximize the potential of their waterfront property. Offering flexibility, ease of installation, and the ability to adapt to changing water levels, floating docks provide a versatile solution for boaters, property owners, and businesses alike.
With their ability to accommodate various watercraft, protect your investments, and serve as platforms for events or shoreline living, floating docks go beyond the capabilities of traditional fixed jetties. Whether you need a temporary setup or a semi-permanent installation, floating docks provide the freedom and flexibility you need to make the most of your waterfront space for years to come.
