Why learn knots?
A properly tied knot can make all the difference to the safety of the entire crew. These knots are the foundation for every sailor – learn them before your trip so you can tie them without thinking in practice.
1
Lodní uzel / fendrový
Clove Hitch
Use:
Attaching a fender to the rail, or a line to a mast or post – the most frequently used knot by crew
By far the most used knot on board. Tying it quickly and correctly takes a little practice – but it's well worth it.
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2
Vyvazovací uzel
Cleat Hitch / vazákový / knagovací
Use:
Securing a line to a cleat when mooring at a marina or on deck
A knot that sparks passionate debate – O, C, or OXO? The key is the correct crossover. A badly tied cleat hitch only looks like it holds.
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3
Osmičkový uzel
Figure-Eight Knot
Use:
Used on the free ends of lines so they cannot slip through a hand, block, or stopper
A very simple yet strong knot that is also gentle on the rope. Most often used on the free ends of lines to prevent them from slipping through a hand, block, or stopper. Even after heavy loading it unties more easily than other knots.
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4
Dračí smyčka / dračák
Bowline
Use:
Creating a fixed loop at the end of a line – for example to attach to a bollard
Does not tighten under load and can always be untied. A handy memory trick: the dragon climbs out of the lake, circles the princess, and pulls her back in.
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