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Marlinspike, and Deck Seamanship
Marlinspike Seamanship
Sailors who become proficient at line handling, knot tying, and splicing a line (rope) are said to have mastered marlinspike seamanship; earning them the right to be known as marlin spikes or marlinspike seamen. A great deal of practice is required to become proficient in this skill. Knowledge of knot tying, splicing, line handling, and its associated terminology is critical for safe boat operations.
Bowline: The Bowline is one of most useful knots on the sea. It is used anytime when a temporary eye is needed at the end of a line. Frequent uses range from tying up to a dock to taking a boat in tow.
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Two Half Hitches: Two Half Hitches are a reliable knot that can be used to make the ends of a line fast around a boat’s rail. A round turn, secured with a pair of Half Hitches, is a quick way to secure a fender while docking, or when rafting-up with friends who are anchored or moored in a bay or cove.
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Becket Bend: Two lines can be lengthened by connecting one to another using a Becket Bend. It is also used for connecting a line to an eye in another line. It can be readily taken apart even after being under a load. Single Becket Bends are used to join lines, of the same size or nearly the same size. For two lines of unequal size a double Becket Bend (crossing the tan line shown under itself twice) is used. Both knots are intended to be temporary.
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Clove Hitch: A Clove Hitch is preferred for securing a heaving line to a towline. It is the best all-around knot for securing a line to a ring, rail or spar. Correctly tied, a Clove Hitch will not jam or loosen. However, if it is not tied tight enough, it may work itself out. Reinforcing it with a Half Hitch or two will prevent this from happening.
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Deck Seamanship
Deck seamanship concerns the general work that goes on about the deck of the boat. Docking, anchoring, mooring, cargo handling, towing, mechanical maintenance and a host of other skilled activities are a part of deck seamanship. A variety of cleats are used for securing lines to the boat, moorings, and docks.
Standard Cleat
Sampson Post
Dipping the line on a Bollard