6x12 Floating Dock(Rail Ideas?)

[jgp12000]

I built a floating dock this weekend for our pond,I am looking for ideas for rails? I was thinking of something sleek with steel cable, if anyone has any suggestions will be appreciated !

[RowdyW]

PVC ??  Weather proof, rust proof, needs no maintanence.           Rudy

[Swami805]

If it were me I'd use wood, I'm sure I'd want to attach stuff to it. That looks really nice, you have some skills!

[oc1]

I agree.  That looks so nice that you should consider staying with the wood.  Posts with knee braces and a top rail.
-s

[Dominick]

Very nice work.  What is the purpose of the opening?  I agree wood posts and to keep the weight down woven stainless steel cable.  Dominick

[jgp12000]

Dominick,the opening is for a trolling motor/battery.I am going to add a metal plate for the motor to fasten to.I just discovered via pinterest the railing I was considering is called "cable railing" .All the components I have found so far, are pricey ! I like a nautical look with rope but, I need a top rail for rod holders.

[Dominick]

Ah! A fishing platform...floating dock hah!  Sounds like fun.  Dominick

[jgp12000]

OK brainstormers,engineers,and homesteaders this is how it sits,now how to move it to the pond...maybe 800 lbs?I only have a 5x8 trailer but have access to a car trailer?

[RowdyW]

Turn it upside down and load on a trailer that's capable of carring over 800 lbs. How far do you have to go and what kind of roads. Highways? Most states the float will have to be registered as a boat & issued a ID decal if any kind of motor is ever installed.                Rudy

[Gfish]

You're adding rails to it, why? Kids, oldsters or rough waters? Will people swim from it? Will there then be a ladder?
Yeah, how far do ya gotta go to the pond.
Look's like some great work so far.
What'er the floats made of?

[Swami805]

If you have access to some large diameter pipe or logs you could take off the cleats, flip it over and roll it to the pond.
800lbs isn't that heavy, maybe try your trailer with the tractor, go slow
Or you could change your name to Noah and wait for rain.

[oldmanjoe]

   Wet down the grass , strap on 2 leaf blowers and treat it like a air boat  ! 
 

Dominick,the opening is for a trolling motor/battery.I am going to add a metal plate for the motor to fasten to.I just discovered via pinterest the railing I was considering is called "cable railing" .All the components I have found so far, are pricey ! I like a nautical look with rope but, I need a top rail for rod holders.

   2 inch pvc pipe with 45 degree sanitary wye  [pole holder ] for the stations and rope for railing !

[jgp12000]

oldmanjoe,
that is the best idea yet!

[jgp12000]

Gfish,the rails are just that for gkids and oldsters,300 yards to pond.

[Lunker Larry]

Can you put a couple straps around it and lift it with the bucket loader. Once off the ground strap it so it doesn't swing around and drive slowly.
How far to the where you're launching it?