First time sailing, Learning to sail, Sailing courses in the UK and Mediterranean
Useful Knots - The Bowline
Learn these four basic knots before you go and you'll be able to help out with many of the jobs on board that use a rope.
1. Clove Hitch
This is probably the first knot you'll be taught and is frequently used for hanging fenders from the guard rail (safety wire) or the pushpit (railing at the back).It's a very quick knot to tie and loosen but be aware that without an added hitch it can work itself loose and cause a bit of embaressment for whoever tied it should the fender count come up one short at the end of the day.
2. Bowline
The undisputed king of knots. This brilliant piece of rope magic produces a fixed loop which will never slip or lock up. Despite being subjected to enormous loads it remains easy to break apart and undo. It's numerous applications including bending on (joining) the clew (back bottom corner) of the headsail to the Jib Sheets (ropes that control the headsail), securing the boat on the pontoon and even forming a seat with which you can be hoisted up the mast if you so desire.
3. Anchor Hitch
Simple, straight-forward and strong, this knot takes a little longer to tie than the clove hitch but you'll be a lot more smug if you used it for the fenders and a count is made. The load is taken by the full turn whilst the two hitches hold the turn in place. A good knot for securing the painter (rope on the front) of a dinghy or tender.
4. Figure of Eight
This knot is quick and easy to learn and makes an effective stop end for many types of rope. It prevents the line from running through a guide or opening. As easy as tying a granny knot but much easier to undo.
"We learn the rope of life by untying its knots."
-Jean Toomer
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