Which sequence correctly secures a line to a fast cleat?

Which sequence correctly secures a line to a fast cleat?

• A. Wrap the line around the cleat twice and tie a bowline
• B. Make a turn under each horn, then a figure eight over each horn, and finish with a half hitch over one horn
• C. Wrap around once and finish with a clove hitch
• D. Tie a square knot around the horns

Answer: (B)

When you secure a line to a fast cleat, you want a method that grips firmly and resists slipping as the boat moves. The sequence that achieves this starts with a turn around the cleat so the line goes under each horn. This places the initial wraps in the direction of the pull and anchors the line solidly to the cleat. Next, you form a figure-eight around the horns. The figure-eight acts like a locking mechanism, distributing load around both horns and preventing the line from creeping off as tension changes. Finally, finishing with a half hitch over one horn cinches those wraps in place, keeping the line from unraveling if the load shifts or the line loosens slightly. This combination—turns under both horns, a figure-eight around the horns, and a finishing half hitch—provides a secure, reliable hold on the cleat. Other patterns either don’t lock as effectively or are prone to slipping or jamming under load, which is why they’re not as suitable for securing a line to a fast cleat.

When you secure a line to a fast cleat, you want a method that grips firmly and resists slipping as the boat moves. The sequence that achieves this starts with a turn around the cleat so the line goes under each horn. This places the initial wraps in the direction of the pull and anchors the line solidly to the cleat. Next, you form a figure-eight around the horns. The figure-eight acts like a locking mechanism, distributing load around both horns and preventing the line from creeping off as tension changes. Finally, finishing with a half hitch over one horn cinches those wraps in place, keeping the line from unraveling if the load shifts or the line loosens slightly.

This combination—turns under both horns, a figure-eight around the horns, and a finishing half hitch—provides a secure, reliable hold on the cleat. Other patterns either don’t lock as effectively or are prone to slipping or jamming under load, which is why they’re not as suitable for securing a line to a fast cleat.