Boating Lessons: Know Your Ropes

Okay, so most boaters know that rope is called line when used aboard boats. No matter what it is called, line is an essential boating supply and it pays to know about the different types of line and its uses, and also to properly care for it to maintain its integrity and extend its life.

Because there are many uses aboard your boat for line, there are many different types and sizes of lines to match. Did you know that line is classified by whether it is natural or synthetic, it's construction and size? Each type of line excels at different uses aboard a boat. Follow the links below to learn about the construction and types of different lines, their uses and the right size of line for your boat.

Here are a few tips for caring for the line aboard your boat:

1. Inspect all the lines aboard your boat annually. The salt and sun combine to degrade the line and severely weaken it. Line that is frayed or worn is compromised and will not have the same strength, which could be dangerous if it breaks, or parts, suddenly when you most need it.

2. Look for places on the line that receive added wear and tear. You can buy covers that slip over the line and protect the line from friction and abrasion, thus extending its life. These covers work particularly well on mooring and anchor lines where frequent chafing occurs.

3. If you boat in salt water, be sure to rinse all your lines with fresh water and hang them to dry. The salt can create tears, and if line is put away wet, mildew sets in. You can also wash your lines periodically with mild soap.

4. Replace line that is worn, frayed, or compromised in any way. Line seems like a small detail, however, it does heavy duty work aboard your boat in the form of keeping your boat moored and/or anchored and fending off bumps and scrapes.

For more information about the types, construction and uses of different line aboard your boat, read Boating Supplies and Accessories - Dock, Mooring and Anchor Lines.