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9 Best Turtle Docks for Aquatic Turtles

Whether you have a medium-sized or larger tank, selecting a dock that provides easy access and a good basking platform is essential for pet turtles.

Turtle docks can be a great way to provide your turtle with the perfect basking spot. Basking is vital for a turtle’s health as it helps warm them up and absorb UVB light, which is why finding the best turtle docks is crucial.

But while a lot of turtle docks are made to look attractive, they can actually be pretty flimsy. And when basking is so vital for your turtle, the last thing you want is a weak turtle dock! The best turtle docks need to be functional and durable.

So how do you find the best basking platform for turtles? Well, we’ve collated a list of the ten best turtle docks for you to choose from. We’ll take several different needs into account to provide an option for everyone. We’ll also explore why you need a turtle dock and what to look for when purchasing one.

Best Turtle Docks

Best Turtle DocksWhy
LaBrinx Designs Hanging Turtle Ramp Platform ShelfBest overall
Zoo Med Turtle DockMost affordable
Penn Plax Small Turtle PierBest value

For my money, the best turtle dock has to be the LaBrinx Designs Hanging Turtle Ramp Platform Shelf. It is easy to install, durable and can hold even large terrapins such as cooters and sliders including the one-foot yellow-bellied slider. While this is perfect for large turtles, you may want something more affordable for your tiny or medium-sized turtle.

The best affordable turtle dock has to be the Zoo Med Turtle Dock. If you are on a tight budget, you cannot go wrong with a Zoo Med product. The Zoo Med Turtle Dock is easy to install and quite durable.

Best Overall Turtle Dock

For pet owners looking for the best choice for heavy turtles and different sizes, the LaBrinx Designs Hanging Turtle Ramp Platform Shelf is ideal, ensuring optimal water temperature and comfort.

This basking platform is wide enough for even the largest terrapin including an adult female red-eared slider or even a yellow-bellied slider. Anyone with a slider or a cooter knows how large the females can get. These turtles can reach carapace lengths of over a foot (12 inches) and weigh an excess of 7 lb (3.2 kg).

If you have a large terrapin, then I recommend the LaBrinx Designs Hanging Turtle Ramp Platform Shelf.

Best Affordable Turtle Dock

Among our top picks, the Zoo Med Turtle Dock stands out, especially for red-eared sliders and turtles that frequent the bottom of the tank.

Just because a turtle dock is low-priced doesn’t mean it has to be weak. If you are in search of an affordable yet durable and functional turtle dock then then consider our choice for the best affordable turtle dock the Zoo Med Turtle Dock.

Many of us know Zoo Med quite well as they produce a large number of pet turtle accessories. While they are not a premium brand, their products are functional and work well.

If you are on a tight budget, then you cannot go wrong with Zoo Med. The Zoo Med Turtle Dock is no different. This basking platform is the best you can get in its price range – which is very low.

The Zoo Med Turtle Dock resembles a rocky ledge and will look inviting to a terrapin that wishes to bask. However, this platform is made of solid hard foam. The platform floats just like a log would in the wild. It is sturdy and rises or falls with the water level in the tank.

Best Value

The best value for money on this list has to be the Penn Plax Small Turtle Pier. you may be wondering why this is so. The Penn Plax Small Turtle Pier is made by Penn Plax. This is a recognizable brand known for its quality pet turtle accessories. The Penn Plax Small Turtle Pier may not be the cheapest but it is the best for its price.

Penn Plax Small Turtle Pier is designed for small turtles. The ramp is well made and easy to climb as the steps are easy to grip and quite rough. The platform itself is well elevated above the water level. The small turtle can dry off completely.

Another feature that adds value to the product is the optional filter holder. You may be wondering about the essence of the filter holder. Well, it simplifies the enclosure setup and reduces cluster. Instead of having the filter in a different location within the aquarium, you can have it attached to the platform.

Why do I need a turtle dock?

Turtles are reptiles. As such, they require heat and light from the sun to warm their bodies, regulate their temperature, and absorb vital nutrients like calcium and Vitamin D.

In captivity, these needs are usually met with a basking spot setup, which usually consists of a heat lamp and a UVB bulb.

To get the maximum benefit from their basking spot, your turtle needs a place to sit and bask. Ideally, this should be a high platform up above the water level of the tank. When turtles bask in the wild, they will frequently leave the water so that they can dry off completely.

Turtle docks are one of the easiest ways to provide your turtle with the perfect basking spot. These platforms are usually sturdy ledges or stands that can be fixed to the side of your turtle tank. There are a couple of different types of turtle docks, which we’ll go over briefly in the next section.

The best products for turtle basking mimic wild turtles’ natural habitats with elements like ceramic tiles and shallow waters, all under a basking lamp.

Types of turtle docks

There are three main types of turtle docks – fixed docks, floating docks, and tank toppers.

Fixed turtle docks

Broadly speaking, fixed turtle docks include various configurations. However, what they have in common is that they are usually free-standing, although some may be fixed to the side of the tank. Turtle piers, such as the Penn Plax Turtle Pier, are usually more suitable for larger turtles as they are more stable. Some docks like these may include systems that adjust to the water level.

Floating turtle docks

Floating turtle docks, like the Zoo Med Turtle Dock, are small shelves designed to be attached to the side of the aquarium to give the impression that they are ‘floating’ on the water. They are usually attached using suction cups. Floating turtle docks will be suitable for most turtles. However, they may not provide enough space or stability for larger specimens.

They are a good option for those with limited space in the turtle’s tank, these docks are ideal for both deep water and shallow settings.

Tank toppers

Tank toppers are a more unique type of turtle dock. Tank toppers like the Penn Plax Turtle Topper resemble boxes that are positioned above your turtle tank, with a ramp leading down to give your reptile access to the space. Tank toppers are enclosed, giving your turtle a sense of safety. These are usually larger setups, so may not be suitable for smaller tanks.

Best Turtle Docks aka Basking Platforms for turtles

Below is a list of the best turtle docks available on the market that are both practical and affordable. When searching for a turtle dock, you should consider factors like durability, size, and ease of installation.

1. LaBrinx Designs Hanging Turtle Ramp Platform Shelf

Top Pick
LaBrinx Wide Hanging Turtle Ramp
$59.99
  • Versatile Design: Clear acrylic ramp with dual mounting options – suction cups or hanging arms, for flexible placement in the tank.
  • Spacious Dimensions: Measures 10" wide, 10" deep, with a 14" total length, ensuring ample space for amphibious pets.
  • Natural Habitat Experience: Mimics natural basking environments for turtles and other amphibious pets, enhancing terrarium space utilization.
  • Multi-Pet Compatibility: Adjustable height suitable for turtles, lizards, frogs, hermit crabs, and tortoises in various tank sizes.
  • Durable and Low Maintenance: Easy to clean, long-lasting material, making it an ideal gift for both new and experienced pet owners.
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03/10/2024 03:01 am GMT

The LaBrinx Designs Hanging Turtle Ramp makes our list because of its clever versatility and functionality. This turtle dock allows you to adjust the setup at different heights, meaning that it can fit virtually any size tank.

You can fix the LaBrinx Hanging Turtle Ramp to your tank with two methods for extra stability. The ramp uses suction cups as well as a mounting system that hangs over the edge of your tank. For smaller, shallower tanks, you can just use the suction system. The LaBrinx Hanging Turtle Ramp also comes in different widths to suit different size turtles.

While it may not be the most stylish option, the LaBrinx Hanging Turtle Ramp’s amazing versatility makes it one of the best basking platforms for turtles.

Best Features

  • The LaBrinx Designs Hanging Turtle Dock features a versatile design. You can hang up the dock by the side of the aquarium using the hooks provided. The two hooks are then attached to the ramp. You can also use the suction cups provided to attach the dock to the side of the aquarium.
  • Personally, I prefer to hang up the dock. This is a quick and easy way to install the dock and it feels more secure. However, it may be necessary to use suction cups. This is especially true if the water level within the tank is low.

The LaBrinx Designs Hanging Turtle Dock strong enough to support even large terrapins such as a large female red-eared slider. The LaBrinx Designs Hanging Turtle Dock comes in three sizes – narrow, wide, and extra large. The extra large size is large and sturdy enough to even support large terrapins with carapace lengths of 12 inches (30 cm). Very few docks can support such large terrapins and this is one of them.

This turtle platform is also a favorite among adult turtles, thanks to its sturdy pylon supports and compatibility with UVB lamps.

2. Zoo Med Turtle Dock

Zoo Med Turtle Dock (Small )
$18.14
  • Innovative Design: Unique floating dock, perfect for aquatic turtles to bask on, with a self-leveling feature that adapts to all water levels.
  • Easy Access: Includes a submerged ramp for turtles, providing effortless access to a dry area for optimal heat and UVB exposure.
  • Size Variability: Available in three sizes, accommodating any size aquatic turtle comfortably.
  • Durable Material: Made of resin, ensuring longevity and resilience in aquatic environments.
  • American-Made Quality: Manufactured at Zoo Med’s facility in San Luis Obispo, California, reflecting the company's commitment to quality.
  • Compact Dimensions: Measures 0.39"L x 0.39"W x 0.39"H, designed to fit in tanks of at least 10 gallons.
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03/09/2024 12:46 pm GMT

There’s a reason why Zoo Med consistently show up in our product lists – they make outstanding products for our turtles! And this trend continues with the Zoo Med Turtle Dock. This floating basking platform for turtles is designed to resemble a rocky ledge, which provides enrichment and a natural feel for your turtle. It looks great and will suit virtually any turtle tank.

The Zoo Med Turtle Dock is also super easy to install. It has two suction cups that you can position at any height in your tank. It also comes in various sizes, from ‘mini’ up to ‘large’, to suit any size turtle. This dock also features a self-balancing system to allow it to react to changing water levels, keeping your turtle dry and happy while basking.

The Zoo Med Turtle Dock is a solid all-rounder suitable for beginners and experts alike.

It’s no wonder that Zoo Med’s Turtle Dock is a popular choice among turtle owners, offering a unique dock design that’s a best way to ensure your turtle’s well-being.

Best Features

  • Zoo Med is a recognizable brand. Zoo Med is a popular brand when it comes to pet reptile accessories and products. Their products can be trusted for their quality and functionality. Even before you open the package, you know that you will get a great product.
  • Zoo Med Turtle Dock can be trimmed to fit curved walls. Unlike other turtle docks, the Zoo Med Turtle Dock is made of solid hard foam instead of hard plastic. This means that you can trim the dock. Of course, if you decide to trim the dock, you do so at your own risk.

Zoo Med Turtle Dock is easy to install. All you need to do is rinse the dock thoroughly under running water and attach the suction cups.

3. Penn Plax Reptology Floating Turtle Pier

Penn-Plax Reptology Floating Turtle Pier and Basking Platform – Large - (Model# REP603)
$16.94
  • Innovative Design: The Reptology Floating Turtle Pier serves as a unique basking platform, floating just above the waterline, allowing pets to rest and eat outside the water while enhancing pet-owner interaction.
  • Secure and Stable: Features four pylon supports with suction cups for a reliable bond to the tank's bottom surface. For optimal adherence, it's advised to clean the suction cups and tank surface before installation.
  • Accessible Docking Ramp: Equipped with an easy-to-climb ramp, facilitating pet access to the upper level, complemented by a built-in gravel bin for weight balance (gravel sold separately).
  • Natural Appeal and Versatility: Doubles as a decorative element, satisfying pets’ instinct to hide and rest underneath. Suitable for both terrariums and aquatic habitats.
  • Sized for Convenience: Ideal for tanks 20 gallons or larger, with a basking platform measuring 16” (D) x 11” (W) x 1.25" (H) and an extendable ramp reaching 20.5" in total length. The adjustable pylon supports cater to varying water levels, from 3” to 16”.
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03/09/2024 12:41 pm GMT

Our next contender is the Penn Plax Reptology Floating Turtle Pier. First of all, this dock looks great thanks to its charming little stairs, wood-like texture, and maritime dock aesthetic. This impressive turtle dock isn’t just for show either.

The Penn Plax Reptology Floating Turtle Pier combines sturdiness and stability with an ingenious water-level system that keeps the platform floating right at the surface. Four strong pillars give this turtle dock a durable foundation and are fixed to the bottom of your tank with powerful suction cups. Your turtle can easily access the wide platform, making this one of the best basking platforms for large turtles.

The Penn Plax Reptology Floating Turtle Pier is easy to put together and will suit most tanks that are 20 gallons or larger. This product is also a great turtle basking platform for ponds.

Best Features

  • Penn-Plax is a recognizable brand. This is another recognizable brand. Penn-Plax is known for its quality pet reptile accessories and this floating dock is no different. 
  • The Penn Plax Floating Pier is large. The Penn Plax is a large dock that can fit even large terrapin. Your red-eared slider or yellow-bellied slider should have no problem hanging out on this dock. If you want a floating dock that can fit large turtles then this is one of the best.  

The Penn Plax Floating Pier is easy to install. Flooring docks are generally easy t install and this one is no different. It is simple to assemble and simple to set up.

4. Kathson Turtle Basking Platform

kathson Turtle Basking Platform
$15.99
  • Innovative Suction Cup Design: Features two large suction cups for secure attachment to terrarium walls, functioning as a decorative stone ornament or a climbing area in amphibian and reptile habitats.
  • Exercise-Friendly Ladder: Includes a gentle ramp, promoting healthy climbing activity for turtles, topped with a platform for resting and drying.
  • Natural Rock Appearance: Crafted to mimic real rocks, this lifelike aquarium ornament seamlessly integrates into aquatic or reptile habitats, creating a natural environment for pets.
  • High-Quality and Durable Material: Made from top-tier, safe resin that's attractive and robust, suitable for both fresh and salt water, and resistant to rotting or deforming.
  • Versatile Use: Measuring 7.1 x 6.3 x 2.7 inches, this basking platform is ideal for aquatic turtles, box turtles, land tortoises, lizards, geckos, and other small animals.
  • Easy Maintenance: The platform is simple to clean - just soak in water and scrub with a brush to remove pet food remnants and waste.
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03/09/2024 12:31 pm GMT

This is a great basking platform for small to medium-sized turtles. This is a corner dock. This means that it is designed to fit into corners.

The whole setup comes with two suction cups which you use to attach the basking platform to the wall of the aquarium. The suction cups are large and ensure that the dock adheres securely to the side of the walls.

The dock is made with resin and as such floats effortlessly. Additionally, it can be used in both brine and freshwater. It doesn’t deform or rot.

The slopes of this dock are interesting. While not steep it encourages exercising. It is just steep enough that the turtle will need to climb up but gentle enough that the turtle should have no issue using it.

Best Features

  • The Kathson Turtle Basking Platform is low-priced. This is an affordable yet quality product. If you are on a budget, then this is one of the turtle docks you can buy. Of course, this is the biggest selling point of this dock.
  • The Kathson Turtle Basking Platform is a corner pier/dock. A corner pier or dock is designed to fit snugly into a corner. Not many docks are corner docks. Since it fits into a corner, it can be out of the way.

The Kathson Turtle Basking Platform is easy to use. Most with a suction setup are easy to install. All you need to do is adjoin the suction cups to the side of the walls and you’re done.

5. Penn Plax Turtle Tank Topper

PENN-PLAX Reptology Turtle Topper
$53.99
  • Healthy and Innovative Design: The Reptology Turtle Topper is a unique basking platform that safely mounts above tanks, offering pets a place to dry, warm up, or relax. Suitable for standard tanks up to 55 gallons and 13 inches wide.
  • Ease of Access: Features a textured docking ramp for easy climbing, leading to an upper level for basking and feeding. The ramp measures 5.75 inches wide and 8 inches long.
  • Versatile Basking Options: Includes a removable hanging platform that sits below the waterline, allowing partial submersion for the turtle. The platform measures 11.25 inches x 4 inches.
  • Convenient and Spacious Setup: The clear top basking area supports 2 clamp-style heat lamps (not included) and has a central metal grill door for easy heat passage and pet access. The grill door measures 7.25 inches x 8 inches.
  • Specific Dimensions: Overall size is 17 inches x 14 inches x 10 inches, with an inside basking platform of 16 inches x 12.5 inches. It fits standard tanks including 10g, 20L, 20H, 29g, 55g, and more.
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03/09/2024 12:41 pm GMT

To give your pet turtle a fantastic basking experience, look no further than the Penn Plax Turtle Tank Topper. This turtle dock sits on top of your tank and provides your turtle with separate enclosed basking and eating area.

The clear plastic sides allow you to observe and interact with your turtle whilst also being easy to clean. Access is provided by a ramp that drops down into the water, and there’s also an underwater platform for your turtle to rest on after a bout of swimming.

The Penn Plax Tank Topper uses side-mounted clamps and suction cups to provide a stable platform and is built to suit tanks up to 55 gallons. This makes it ideal for larger turtles.

Best Features

  • Penn Plax Turtle Tank Topper has a heat lamp mount. The Tank Topper features a mount for our heat lamp. This allows you to easily install your heat lamp or UV lamp onto the turtle’s aquarium. With this dock, you can solve two problems with this addon. The turtle has a place to dock, and you have a place to attach your heat lamp.

Penn Plax Turtle Tank Topper is completely dry. A common problem with most turtle docks is that sometimes they remain submerged in water. When turtles bask, they need to completely dry. The above tank dock is attached to the top of the tank. Because of this, they are never submerged regardless of how heavy the turtle is or how high the water level is.

6. uxcell Turtle Basking Ramp

uxcell Resin Turtle Basking Ramp
$12.99
  • Dark Gray Resin Decor: Includes 1 safe, non-toxic Tortoise Platform Decor, perfect for adding a touch of style to turtle habitats.
  • Natural Hideaway Design: Designed as a climb stone, it offers a cool, private space for pets, suitable for small aquatic turtles.
  • Compact and Convenient: Measures 5.4" x 3.6" x 1.8" (LWH), easy to clean with warm, soapy water.
  • Aquarium Enhancement: Provides a realistic living environment, transforming the tank with a natural look.
  • Specific Use: Ideal for turtle tanks; not recommended for fish tanks, especially with betta or goldfish.
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03/09/2024 12:56 pm GMT

The Uxcell Turtle Basking Ramp is great for smaller turtle tanks and helps provide some enrichment for your turtle. The easy-to-climb resin ramp has been designed to resemble a rocky ledge, creating a more natural and comfortable environment for your turtle.

It also features a swim-through tunnel underneath, giving your turtle a hiding place or fun route for swimming. The Uxcell Basking Ramp suits smaller species of turtle perfectly, and its resin construction won’t harm the water quality in your turtle tank.

Best Features

  • The Uxcell Turtle Basking Ramp is affordable. This is one of the more adorable turtle docks on the list. It may well be the most affordable one on the list. This turtle ramp is low priced for a reason, it is designed for small turtles. Medium or large turtles cannot use this mount.

The Uxcell Turtle Basking Ramp is perfect for hatchlings and juveniles. If you have a hatchling or a tiny turtle then this is a quality basking ramp for them. The sloop is very gentle and easy to climb onto. As mentioned in the previous point, this will not work for large turtles.

7. Penn Plax Corner Pier

Penn-Plax Corner Turtle Pier - Medium
$39.99
  • Innovative Dual-Function Design: Serves as a basking platform and floats above the waterline, allowing pets to rest and eat out of water, enhancing pet-owner interaction.
  • Stable and Secure: Features a platform supported by 3 pylons with suction cups for a strong bond to the tank's bottom.
  • Easy Access Ramp: Textured ramp with E-Z Slide design for easy pet access, mountable at various front-side positions.
  • Decorative and Natural: Offers a dry basking area for temperature regulation and an under-pier hiding space, ideal for terrariums and reptile habitats without water.
  • Suitable Dimensions for Small Reptiles: Measures 10.5 inches long by 9.5 inches wide, fitting for 10-gallon tanks or larger, perfect for frogs, newts, salamanders, and other small reptiles.
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03/09/2024 01:06 pm GMT

Yet another entry from Penn Plax, this Corner Pier may suit some turtle tanks better than its larger counterpart mentioned above. This turtle dock is one of the best water turtle basking platforms for smaller tanks, giving your turtle a comfortable basking spot in the corner of its aquarium.

Like the larger Penn Plax Turtle Pier, this corner configuration features a floating water-level system designed to react to changes in depth. The three sturdy pillar legs provide a stable platform thanks to powerful suction cups, while the pier boasts a charming rustic maritime style and easy-access ramp.

The Penn Plax Corner Pier is another versatile turtle dock and can fit tanks of 10 gallons or more.

Best Features

  • The Penn Plax Small Turtle Pier features an easy docking ramp. One of the best features of this dock is the easy docking ramp. This ramp is easy to climb and even the smallest turtle can easily use it. The Penn Plax Small Turtle Pier is rough with several ridges that provide grip so the turtle doesn’t slide off when climbing it.

The Penn Plax Small Turtle Pier has an optional filter holder. Very few docks have filter holders. You may be wondering what the use of the filter is. This is an elegant design as it allows you to simplify your setup and reduce cluster.  Instead of having the filter in a different location within the aquarium, you can have it attached to the platform.

8. Oasis Turtle Ramp

OASIS #64225 Turtle Ramp - Medium
$25.15
  • Natural Basking Solution: Offers a stable platform for turtles to bask and exit water, mimicking their natural environment.
  • Enhanced Grip Traction: Features textured grip tape for secure footing, made with durable adhesive and acrylic for wet environments.
  • Versatile Use: Ideal for aquatic turtles, salamanders, newts, frogs, and other reptiles, and adaptable for dry terrariums as a multi-level basking area.
  • Simple Installation and Maintenance: Easy to set up with suction cups for a secure hold and straightforward to clean.
  • Sleek and Adjustable Design: Fits various aquatic habitats, with the ability to adjust for water depth or fully submerge for underwater rest.
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03/09/2024 01:16 pm GMT

Similar in style to the LaBrinx Ramp, but lacking the extra hanging mount, the Oasis Turtle Ramp is still a great choice of turtle dock. With a choice of sizes to suit individual turtles, the Oasis Turtle Ramp is a versatile, sturdy option. Three strong suction cups help fix this ramp to the side of your tank, while the easy-to-clean acrylic construction helps you keep the ramp well maintained.

You can easily adjust the ramp level of the Oasis Turtle Ramp to suit the size of your tank, while the grippy surface helps your turtle easily reach the basking platform. Your reptile can also shelter underneath the ramp if they so choose.

Best Features

  • The OASIS Turtle Ramp features an interesting black traction tape. This tape is to offer traction as the turtle climbs the ramp. The slope of the ramp is also really gentle is long. It allows turtles of all sizes to easily climb onto the basking platform.

The OASIS Turtle Ramp is a simple ‘no-fuss’ ramp. This ramp doesn’t have any special or unique features but it just works. It does what it is meant to do with no fuss and excess at it. The ramp is also easy to clean.

9. Zilla Basking Ramp

Zilla Basking Platform Ramps - Large
$26.00
  • Promotes Activity: Features a stepped design that encourages natural climbing behavior in turtles.
  • Adequate Basking Space: Offers a wide, flat top surface, providing ample area for basking.
  • Natural River Rock Appearance: Designed to mimic the look of river rock, making it an attractive choice for aquatic turtle habitats.
  • Functional Decor: Not only enhances the aesthetic of the terrarium but also serves a practical purpose.
  • Ease of Cleaning: Simple maintenance with just warm, soapy water and a rinse.
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03/09/2024 01:21 pm GMT

For a versatile budget option, the Zilla Basking Ramp range is a good pick. Available in three sizes from Small to Jumbo, and with a choice of either a corner or platform configuration, the Zilla ramps can suit most sizes of turtle.

The arch design of the Zilla ramps helps keep them stable and sturdy. These ramps are made to look like natural rock, which helps provide an immersive environment for your turtle. If the need arises, your turtle can also shelter underneath the platform, while the whole setup is very easy to clean.

Best Feature

The Zilla Reptile Habitat Décor Basking Platform is a budget option. There are several budget options on this list and this is one of them. The affordable Zilla platform actually has steps. Unlike other ramps of other docks that simply have traction tape or ridges, this dock has steps that turtles have no difficulty climbing.

Turtle Dock Buyer’s Guide

Each of these docks has been chosen for being a better choice in terms of functionality, offering extra space for live plants, and accommodating UV light needs with suitable basking platforms.

When choosing a turtle dock for your aquarium, there are a few factors to consider. In this clear and concise buyer’s guide we’ll cover all the things you should look for to make sure that you get the best basking platform for your turtle.

To select the best turtle docks for your pet, consider the following guidelines.

Getting the right size

While this seems like an obvious thing to consider, it can sometimes be overlooked. What’s the point in buying a big, expensive turtle dock when you’ve only got a 20-gallon tank? Most turtle dock manufacturers will provide measurements for their docks, so use these when making your decision.

Some manufacturers may also give recommended gallon capacities for tanks that their turtle docks are suitable for. Remember that the basking spot shouldn’t take up a huge amount of space relative to your turtle tank. When dividing your tank into water and land areas for semi-aquatic turtles, the land area should never take up more than half of the tank.

Within the land area, the basking spot shouldn’t cover the whole terrestrial space as your semi-aquatic turtle will want to have cooler areas as well. For fully aquatic turtles, the basking area can have a relatively small footprint in the tank.

A good rule to bear in mind is that the basking spot for any turtle should be at least as wide as its shell. Check the measurements of the various turtle docks on offer to pick the right size for your turtle.

Installation and ease of cleaning

You should also bear in mind how your turtle dock is going to be fixed to your tank. Most turtle docks will use a suction cup system to fix them in place, whether on the side of the tank like the Kathson Platform or on the bottom like the Penn Plax Corner Pier. Some, like the LaBrinx Hanging Platform, provide additional mounting options such as being able to hang them from the side of the tank.

Again, make sure that your tank has the space to fit the mountings of the turtle dock. A larger product like the Penn Plax Turtle Tank Topper isn’t going to be suitable for smaller aquariums, whereas the smaller sizes of the Zoo Med Turtle Dock might be better options.

Make sure the fixing system is also easy to use and quick to detach. This will make cleaning the turtle dock much easier. Suction cups will need to be kept clean as sometimes algae can build up on them and affect their levels of adhesion. Being able to take out your turtle dock easily is something to bear in mind for cleaning.

You may also have to assemble some turtle docks when first installing them, like the Penn Plax Reptology Floating Turtle Pier. Read the instructions carefully and make sure they are easy to understand. The last thing you want is your turtle’s basking platform collapsing because the dock wasn’t built correctly!

Build quality

When choosing a turtle dock, you want to make sure that you are buying from a reputable brand that is synonymous with quality. Flimsy components or faulty designs will not give your turtle a pleasant experience. Most turtle docks are made with durable acrylic or resin materials. Make sure that the fixings, in particular, are stable and sturdy, especially with something like the Penn Plax Turtle Tank Topper.

The brands on our list are all proven commodities, especially heavy hitters like Zoo Med and Penn Plax. Rely on these trusted brands to get the highest quality turtle dock.

Versatility

Having a versatile turtle dock, especially one that you can adjust or automatically reacts to changing water levels, is a good thing to aim for. Adjustable ramps or turtle docks that utilize floating systems to adapt to the water level are your best bet.

This is especially true if you are raising hatchlings and will need to increase the size of their aquarium over time. To save having to buy a new turtle dock when they are bigger or need more water, choose a versatile turtle dock to start with that will hold their adult size and weight.

Best Turtle Dock (Basking Areas) Video Explainer!

Verdict

So that wraps up our list of the ten best basking platforms for turtles! Overall, the best turtle docks are those that offer a perfect blend of functionality, durability, and value for pet owners.In this article, we’ve covered why you need a turtle dock as well as give you a rundown of our top ten turtle docks on the market. We also looked at the different types of turtle docks available, as well as provided a clear and concise buyer’s guide to help you choose the best turtle dock for your pet.

In terms of the best turtle dock, it depends on your turtle’s size and the capacity of your tank. For most sizes of turtle, the LaBrinx Hanging Shelf and the Zoo Med Turtle Dock are safe picks. Both are easy to install for beginners and both are extremely durable.

The best basking platforms for large turtles are the Penn Plax Reptology Floating Turtle Pier and the Penn Plax Turtle Tank Topper. Both provide plenty of space for bigger specimens and are sturdy enough to hold their weight.

Did you enjoy our list? If you did and if you are thinking of purchasing any of these products, please don’t hesitate to comment down below!

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