Whether you're a solo boater or just starting out, knowing a few basic knots can come in handy during your adventures on the water. In this quick guide, we'll cover some essential knots
that every boater should have in their repertoire.
1. The Bowline
The bowline is a reliable knot for forming a loop at the end of a rope. It's perfect for attaching lines to cleats, mooring buoys, or other objects.
How to tie it:
Form a loop in the working end of the rope.
Pass the working end up through the loop and around the standing part.
Pull the working end through the loop again.
2. The Clove Hitch
The clove hitch is a simple knot used for temporarily securing a rope to an object. It's often used for attaching lines to stanchions or other fixed points on the boat.
How to tie it:
Wrap the working end of the rope around the object.
Pass the working end over the standing part and back through the loop.
3. The Figure-Eight Knot
The figure-eight knot is a simple stopper knot used to prevent the end of a rope from unraveling. It's often used to secure the end of a rope before attaching it to a cleat or other object.
How to tie it:
Form a loop in the working end of the rope.
Pass the working end around the standing part and back through the loop.
Tighten the knot.
4. The Prusik Knot
The Prusik knot is a climbing knot that can be used to ascend a rope or secure a line to a fixed object.
How to tie it:
Make a loop in the working end of the rope.
Pass the working end around the standing part.
Pull the loop tight.