Best Knots For Mooring Boats: Secure And Reliable Techniques

When it comes to mooring a boat, there are several types of knots that can be used, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most commonly used knot for mooring is the two half hitches or double half hitch, which is durable, adjustable, and can be used to secure boats to various objects. Another option is the cleat hitch, which is simple to tie and can be used to secure a boat to a dock. The clove hitch is also useful for mooring, but it should not be used for heavy-duty tasks as it can come undone if not under constant slight pressure. The figure-eight knot can be used as a stopper knot to prevent a line from passing through something, but it may be difficult to untie if both ends of the line are under stress. For a temporary mooring solution, the mooring hitch is a good option as it holds fast under load but can be quickly released with a tug on the free end.

The Figure Eight Knot

When using the Figure Eight Knot, it is important to ensure that your mooring lines are long enough to reach the fixed object and create the figure-eight pattern. Additionally, maintaining a clear line of sight when approaching the mooring point will help ensure a smooth and successful mooring.

The advantages of the Figure Eight Knot include its security, stability, and versatility. The figure-eight pattern distributes the load evenly across the mooring lines, reducing the risk of the lines breaking or the boat drifting away. This knot is also adjustable, making it suitable for various situations and accommodating changes in tide or water level.

The Bowline Knot

To tie a bowline knot, start by creating a loop at the end of a full-length rope, leaving about six to ten inches remaining after the loop. Then, pass the end or "tag" of the rope through the loop. Next, pass the tag behind the standing portion of the rope and through the loop again, this time going in the opposite direction. Finally, hold the loop and the tag end and pull the rope's main body to tighten. You will now have a secure loop that can be used for a variety of purposes.

The Cleat Hitch

To tie a Cleat Hitch, follow these steps:

• Take the rope around the far horn.
• Wrap it around the near horn and take it to the back.
• Pass it to the front from the back.
• Slide the loop through the near horn.
• Pull the tag end to complete the hitch.

It is important to note that the sequence of these steps must be followed to avoid the knot jamming.

When mooring, towing, and cleating a sheet, always cross the centre after the first two horns. This is done by not bringing the line around the near horn first. Instead, go around the far horn, then around the other, and back across the middle. Continue making several more figure-8 turns around each horn. This will prevent the initial turn from continuing around and under the first horn a second time, creating a complete round turn.

The Clove Hitch

• Pass the end of the rope around the pole.
• Continue over the standing end and around the pole a second time.
• Thread the end under itself and pull it tight to form the clove hitch.
• Imagine a boat that you want to moor to a post, which is represented by your left thumb.
• Place the moored part of the line along your left thumb and secure it with your left forefinger.
• Take the loose part of the line in your right hand.
• Turn the line into a loop where the moored part lies above the loose part of the line.
• Put the loop over the post and pull the imaginary boat towards you as close as possible.
• Lay a second loop the same way and put it over the post above the other loop.

The Mooring Hitch Knot

To tie the mooring hitch knot, start by making a turn around a post. Then, form a loop with the free end of the rope, ensuring that the free end exits the loop on the inside. Leave a longer free end than illustrated in most instructions. Next, grasp the standing line and pull a section through the loop. Now, grasp a section of the free end (avoiding the very end) and pull it partially through the new loop. Tighten the knot by pulling down on the standing line. To release the knot, simply pull on the free end.

It is important to note that the mooring hitch knot should not be used for heavy-duty tasks or securing a boat for a prolonged period. While it is a convenient and quick-release knot, it may not be as secure as other knots for long-term mooring. Additionally, if the line is not under slight pressure or if it rotates, the knot can come undone. Therefore, it is recommended to use this knot only for temporary mooring and always exercise caution when relying on any knot for boat safety.

When mooring a boat, it is crucial to consider the specific conditions, the duration of the mooring, and the strength required. Different knots have different advantages and disadvantages, and it is essential to choose the most suitable knot for your needs. Some alternative knots for mooring a boat include the clove hitch, the half hitch (overhand knot), and the figure-eight knot. Each of these knots has unique characteristics that make them suitable for different situations.

Frequently asked questions