On the Water

Whether you are on a sailboat or a motorboat, everyone should know how to tie at least four key boating knots and when to use them. You will see these knots become second nature with a little practice and regular use on the water. Here are four simple boating knots everyone should know and when to use them.  1. Bowline Boating Knot The first knot that is essential for boaters to know is the bowline. It is a more commonly known knot, particularly for those who were once involved in Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts. Bowline knots create a loop that can help pass through cleats or tie around items like rings or riser rails.  The key to understanding the bowline knot is tension. This knot relies on tension in order to remain secure, which is what makes it so useful in boating. However, it cannot be untied unless you can somehow release that tension. Make sure that you can free the other end of the line anytime you use this common knot.  2. Clove Hitch Boating Knot Another simple boating knot everyone should know is the clove hitch. The clove hitch is useful because you can use it to quickly fasten a line around items like rails or guard wires. It is also a knot that is easily adjusted by releasing some tension on the part of the knot that crosses over like an ‘X’ and shortening or lengthening the lines that you need to be adjusted.  Be cautious …