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Section 16: Knots and Lines
We will learn to tie two knots in class:
the cleat hitch and the bowline.
These are two of the most popular knots
for mariners. The principle of a good
marine knot is that it is easy to tie, easy to
untie, and holds fast under the conditions
for which it is intended. To learn to tie
additional knots, we encourage you to join
USPS and enroll in the Seamanship course
or purchase the USPS Guide “Knots, Bends
and Hitches for Mariners.”
Knot tying is part of the practice of
marlinespike seamanship, which is the general
knowledge of knots and the care of
rope. The term originates from a pointed
metal tool, a marlinespike, used in working
with rope. Every skipper needs to know
how to tie a few basic knots.
Upon completion of this chapter, you
should be able to:
• Tie two fundamental knots that should be
adequate for your first boating needs.
• Recognize the advantages and disadvantages
of three types of rope.
• Coil a line properly.
Rope is purchased as rope. When aboard a
boat (vessel) rope is no longer called rope;
it is called a line. However, there are a few
exceptions such as “lanyard ropes” on bells,
“bolt ropes” on sails, and “tiller ropes” on
tillers.
• A line, rope, or cable has three parts:
• Bitter end—the inboard end made fast to
the vessel
• Working end—the outboard end that is
fastened to things
• Standing part—the section between the
bitter end and the working end
There are three ways to tie a line:
• Knot—a general term for securing a line
to an object, another line, or to itself. Specifically,
a knot is tied in a single line.
• Bend—a type of knot used to tie one line
to another.
• Hitch—a type of knot used to secure a
line to an object.
TYPES OF ROPE
For many years, rope was made from natural
fibers such as manila. Natural fiber rope
is now obsolete for marine use. Rope made
of synthetic fibers has far superior qualities.
The three most common types of synthetic
rope used today are nylon, polyester, and
polypropylene. It is important to buy the
correct rope for the use intended.
Nylon
Nylon rope is strong and has good resistance
to chafing and rubbing.
• It can stretch considerably (up to 20%)
without damage to its fibers. This
shock-absorbing quality makes it ideal for
anchor, mooring, and dock lines.
• Nylon rope wears well, resists mildew and
rot, but does not float.
• Three-strand nylon line is the preferred
line for dock lines since it stretches sufficiently
to dampen shock of wave action
and wind against cleats.
Polyester
Polyester rope is sold under a number
of brand names, such as Dacron®, and
Terylene®. It is about 10% weaker than
nylon rope for the same diameter.