Common Sailing Knots

Figure 8 / Stopper Knot

This knot prevents lines, like the mainsheet or jibsheet, from slipping out of a cleat. Unlike a simple overhand knot, it won’t bind and become impossible to untie. (click image for how to)

Figure 8 sailing knot. Blue braided rope tied in a decorative knot with a red and black end fitting, on a white background.

Bowline

A non-slipping loop for securing a line to something, like the head of a sail or a block. Easy to untie, but a bit tricky to tie at first. (click image for how to)

Bowline Sailing knot. Blue rope knot with a brown leather tab on a white background.

Round Turn & Two Half-Hitches

Wrap a line twice around a post or rail, then tie two consecutive overhand knots. A tug just tightens it. (click image for how to)

A blue rope tied in a knot around a round, metallic object.

Clove Hitch

Two interlocking loops around a post or rail. Simple, secure, and snugs up when pulled. (click image for how to)

Blue shoelace tied in a knot around a wooden dowel against a plain white background.

Tautline Hitch

An adjustable loop that holds tension, perfect for lines that need to be tightened or loosened. (click image for how to)

A metal ice cream scoop with a blue rope tied in a knot around it, forming a makeshift handle.

Cleat Hitch

This maneuver secures your boat to a cleat or ties off a halyard on a mast. (click image for how to)

A shoelace tying practice tool with a white plastic base and a loop of blue and black striped shoelace.