How to Tie a Bowline Knot

The bowline is among the most commonly used knots on a sailboat. With it, you can tie a line (rope) in a loop around anything else to anchor the line. The bowline is not only strong and secure but is easy to break loose later, even when pulled tight under a load. Once you learn how to tie a bowline and get some practice, you’ll never forget it.

A fun way to learn the steps for tying a bowline knot uses the “rabbit in a hole” memory aid.

Let's get started...


Step 1 - Start with a Small Loop and a Large Loop



Begin by forming a little loop (the rabbit hole) by crossing the line over itself as shown here.

Note: the big loop to the right will be the finished loop when the knot is tied. (Once you have learned the knot, practice tying that loop around something like a rail or stanchion on your boat.)


Step 2 - Bring the End Up Through the Small Loop



The rabbit comes out of its hole.


Step 3 - Bring the End Under the Standing Line



The rabbit runs under the log.


Step 4 - Bring the End Back Over the Standing Line



The rabbit jumps back over the log headed back for its hole.


Step 5 - Bring the End Back Through the Small Loop



The rabbit dives back into its hole.


Step 6 - Pull the Knot Tight



The rabbit disappears into its hole and the hole closes up.

And there you have it! Traditionally sailors practiced this knot until they could do it with their eyes closed or hands behind their back – you never know what conditions you may find yourself in when you have to lash a line securely.