Tying ropes is part of sailing and boating. There are a crazy number of types of knots for various uses handed down through history. Just a few can be extremely helpful because you will likely need them on a regular basis. Here is a list starting with the common bowline knot since you will be using it to tie your boat to pilings or tie lines to fenders. If you sail, you will need it to attach your rope to the head of a sail. It must be secure.
- Bowline – Forms a secure loop
- Bowline On A Bight – Forms a loop in the middle of a line
- Common Whipping – Whipping knot to keep the end of a rope from unraveling
- Double Bowline Knot – A more robust bowline knot
- Flemish Bend – One of the strongest ways to join two ropes
- Midshipman’s Hitch – Creates an adjustable loop
- Mooring Hitch – Quick release knot
- Reef Knot – A square knot
- Rolling Hitch – Secure a line to a post
- Running Bowline – A slip knot
- Slipped Overhand Knot – A simple slip knot or “draw-loop”
- Slipped Sheet Bend – Quickly untie two ropes
- Spanish Bowline – A double loop knot
- Trucker’s Hitch – Load securing knot
- Water Knot – Best knot for webbing
For full knot tying instruction, click the links provided. No matter what type of boat you own, there will be times that tying the right knot will make you feel more secure about your boat’s position, the safety of items attached to your boat, cargo, and passengers. It will boost your confidence as the captain of your own vessel. Let’s not forget that knot tying can simply be a fun activity. Practice it with your family and friends.
Sources:
Discover Boating, 2018. How-To Tie a Bowline Knot, https://www.discoverboating.com/resources/how-to-tie-a-bowline-knot
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