Abstract: An apparatus that is configured to connect a first boat to second boat or to an object, such as a dock, in a manner that prevents the surface of the first boat from contacting the surface of the second boat or the object. The apparatus comprises a connecting assembly having a first engaging mechanism at its first end and a second engaging mechanism at its second end. The connecting assembly comprises a pair of connecting members that are telescopically configured and a length adjusting mechanism that adjusts the length of the connecting assembly and the spacing provided by the apparatus. The length adjusting mechanism can include a locking mechanism that locks the connecting members or a biasing mechanism that biases the two members apart. The engaging members can be suction cups that have cup locking mechanisms that allow the user to lock the suction cups to a surface.