There are a lot of factors that go into securing a boat, starting with dock lines, fenders, and cleats—just to name a few. Managing all that goes into knot tying can sometimes be a team effort, but with a little practice it can become second nature. One critical step is knowing which knot to use in any given situation. It’s extremely important to not only know what knot you should use, but how to actually tie that knot so that it keeps your boat securely fastened.
Let’s outline some of the key differences between the most popular knots used in boating. For more detailed instructions on how to tie each knot, be sure to visit the BoatUS Boat Knots page.
Cleat Hitch Knot
The most common knot used for tying down your boat is the cleat hitch knot. Just to be clear, boat cleats are pieces of hardware, typically made of stainless steel, that are attached to the dock itself and your boat. These are usually shaped like a “T,” or are often referred to as a horn. When tying the cleat hitch knot,