Useful knots

• The Cleat Hitch - Used for attaching a dock line to a cleat
• Round Turn and Two Half Hitches - Used for attaching a dock line to a post or ring
• Clove Hitch - Used for attaching fenders to the lifeline and a dock line to a post
• The Bowline - Used for attaching a sheet to a clew
• Animated Boating Knots by Grog - More knots

Why are there so many different kinds of knots?

Each knot is designed for a different purpose. Depending on what you are tieing, some knots such as the bowline are very strong, but can not be tied or untied under load. Other knots such as the clove hitch are easy to learn and can be tied very quickly, but will slip under load. There are different knots for different applications. Using the wrong knot can result in injury or damage.

Why are properly tied knots so important?

A properly tied knot has a high degree of reliability and can be untied fairly easily. When it comes to sailing these two aspects are very important. An improperly tied knot or the wrong kind of knot can come undone or cause the line to break creating dangerous conditions or allow the boat to drift free. Additionally an improperly tied knot can jam making it very difficult to untie preventing you from moving quickly and possibly avoiding a dangerous situation.