Multi-purpose fenders
Visit patent filed in 2017 by Fabrice Duffour, creator of Beacher boats, for a fender "equipped with a reception volume" a fender with internal storage, has found a developer. Fendsea, a newly-created company, has been working on fenders incorporating an internal compartment that can have multiple functions, unlike inflatable models. The prototypes, produced in conjunction with Breton company Outils Océans, draw on their expertise in parallelepiped foam fenders, offered for medium-sized pleasure boats, and up to large dimensions to protect the foils of racing yachts.
The top features a magnetic waterproof canvas closure. Opening it reveals a compartment that can be used to store trash cans, as imagined by the original inventor, as well as mats, shoes or any other item you prefer to keep outside, whether for reasons of smell or humidity!
Customizable defenses
Guillaume Labrot, co-founder of Fendsea, sees several outlets once testing is completed and marketing begins: "We're going to finish all the tests this autumn, for friction, shock, waterproofing and water evacuation, magnetic closure. The marketing target is early 2024. We'll easily be able to offer them customized, whether in the name of the boat or a rental fleet. We're targeting both individual yachtsmen and professionals, boat rental companies or shipyards as an option on initial assemblies."
While the idea is appealing, the volume of the fenders remains an obstacle, especially on small boats. If traditional fenders also take up space, a Fendsea fender in the bottom of the trunk loses its appeal. You'll need boats of a certain size, or with an attractive linear aft balcony, to be able to store the fenders when sailing, and why not, stow the mooring lines. Smaller boats will nevertheless be able to take one as a back-up, creating additional, sometimes welcome, storage.
