Casco Bay Flotilla

This 4-hour Course is designed to give Boaters a working knowledge and understanding of lines and line handling techniques. It will include a discussion of the various types of lines, and related safety concerns, as well as how to tie the essential knots used every day on the water. A hands-on approach will be used to demonstrate and practice each knot and technique, with a focus on understanding the how’s and why’s. Being able to tie a knot at sea, in the dark, under adverse conditions, is an essential skill that can save lives.

This course will also cover Docking and Anchoring equipment and procedures with an emphasis on how it all works. Understanding how and why, enables the boater to adapt and adjust to changing situations. 

All materials required for the class will be provided.

Topics:

Types of lines and best uses

• • • Single Braid
    • Double Braid
    • Solid Core
    • Twisted Strand

Nomenclature/Definitions/Commands

• • • Standing End
    • Bitter End
    • Overhand/Underhand
    • Bite

Types of knots

• • • hitches
    • bends
    • loop knots
    • splices (not covered in this course)

Safety

• • • Pinch Point
    • Snap Back
    • Tripping Hazards
    • Entanglement Hazards
    • Choking Hazards

Essential Knots

• • • Bowline (3 Ways)
    • Over Hand
    • Round Turn with a Double Half Hitch
    • Square Knot (right and wrong ways)
    • Figure 8 and Barrel Knot (Stopper knots)
    • Sheet Bend/Becket
    • Clove Hitch/Rolling Hitch
    • Cleat Hitch and OXO

Docking

• • • Taking a Control Turn on a Cleat, on a Bit, on a Piling
    • Lassoing a Cleat
    • Securing an Eye to a Cleat
    • Securing tow Eyes to a Cleat
    • Dipping an Eye to a Bit/Piling
    • Coiling and Stowing Lines (Free Coil)
    • Coiling Down to a Cleat (Halyards/Docklines)
    • Spring Lines
    • Breast Line

Anchoring

• • • Types of Anchors
    • Importance of Chain
    • Scope
    • Procedure
    • Anti-chafe Gear
    • How to Break Out a Stuck Anchor
    • Rig a Trip Line
    • Thinking on your feet (Dealing with a Fouled Anchor)