How to Tie a Cleat Hitch Knot

What Is a Cleat Hitch Knot?

Simply put, a cleat hitch knot is the easiest way to secure your boat to something stable like a dock. This knot is specifically designed to work with a cleat.

When you need to keep your boat in place, this is the go-to knot that every boater should know. It's both reliable - and surprisingly easy to master - once you understand the basic steps.

Required Materials

Before you start tying your cleat hitch knot, make sure you have the following:

1. A sturdy cleat attached to your boat

2. A length of rope (also called a line in boating terms)

3. A solid cleat on the dock or mooring post to tie up to

Quick heads up - those cleats need to be rock-solid since they will take the strain of your boat pulling against them. (This is especially true on windy days or when there's a strong current.)

Step-by-Step: How to Tie a Cleat Hitch Knot

Tying your boat up doesn't have to be complicated! Just take your time and give yourself patience while learning a new skill. Here's how to get it done right:

Starting the Knot

To begin, grab your line and run it under your boat's cleat in the direction opposite to the load. Next, take that loop and pop it over one of the metal ears (horns) on the side we mentioned earlier. (Those sticky-out parts.) Then, wrap the part of the line heading to the dock around one side, keeping tension on the line as you work.

Creating the Main Knot

Here's where the important parts start to form! You're going to weave the rope in and out, making what looks like a figure-eight. Each wrap should sit next to (not on top of) the previous one, forming neat diagonal crosses in the middle.

Typically, two or three times around is plenty. This part makes the cleat hitch knot solid, so remember to keep the lines neat and next to each other.

Securing with a Half Hitch

Finally, take your time with this part because this is where people often mess up. Take your free end and make a small underhand loop - nothing fancy. Slip that loop over the horn that's in the direction of your load.

Now, everything should line up pretty much perfectly. Got that loose end hanging there? Just pull it down hard - that'll tighten everything up and the tail should point straight down.

Testing Your Work

Give the whole thing one solid tug to ensure it's tight and secure. The rope should never cross over itself anywhere in the knot. And if the knot holds firm, you've done it correctly!

Remember, a properly tied cleat hitch is essential for securing your boat safely! So, you'll want to take your time to get each step right.