In Part 1 of this blog, we talked about the first five boating knots that sailors should learn as beginners. If you have mastered those knots, let’s move on to the remaining five knots that are a bit complex.
1. Double Half Hitch
The double half hitch is a knot used to create the boat’s slip. It can be tied to mooring rings or piling. Remember that though this knot might resemble a clove hitch, it is more difficult to untie, which is why it is great for securing boats parked in the slips for months.
2. Sheet’s Bend
The sheet bond is a knot used to secure two lines of different sizes. This knot is easier to untie than a square knot used for reefing sails.
3. Trucker’s Hitch
The trucker’s hitch, also known as a wagoner’s hitch, is a knot that serves multiple purposes. It helps tie loads to the deck, secure a dinghy during a storm, etc. While the knot resists tension, it can be released easily.
4. Rolling Hitch
The rolling hitch is a knot used to relieve strain on a rope. It helps resist lengthwise movement when the boat is pulled in a single direction. One of its most common uses is rigging the stopped to reduce tension to clear a blocked winch.
5. Midshipman’s Hitch
The midshipman’s hitch is a knot used to create an adjustable look on the end of a line. While the loop is adjustable, combined with the half hitch knot, it offers a secure hold.
And we finally come to an end of the most common boating knots. The following list recaps all the knots and their uses:
| Boating Knots | Uses |
| Cleat Hitch | Attaches the rope to cleat and is used for dock lines. Also used for clotheslines, halyards, etc. |
| Clove Hitch | Secures a temporary hold, for example, mooring buoy or stage scenery. |
| Anchor Bend/Hitch | The best and strongest knot for attaching the anchor line to an anchor. |
| Bowline | A reasonably secure loop that forms on the end of a rope and can be easily undone. |
| Figure Eight | This knot is fast to tie and a convenient and non-binding knot. |
| Double Half Hitch | Helps create a permanent slip for your boat, which you can tie to moorings. |
| Sheet’s Bend | Helps secure two lines together. |
| Trucker’s Hitch | It is a valuable knot used to secure tarpaulins or loads. |
| Rolling Hitch | This popular grip knot does not tie well with modern ropes. |
| Midshipman’s Hitch | This knot creates an adjustable loop, which is tied with a rolling hitch. |
More Knots?
There are plenty more where these came from, but you might not find any need for them when you are starting to learn how to sail. We have covered how to secure your boat to a dock, how to secure the anchor, how to make sure no one can steal your boat by untying a knot, and more. Practice tying these knots one by one, and you will be able to sail like a pro in no time.
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