Knot school
Bollard hitch – step by step
Mooring around a bollard with a round turn and two half hitches.
Start tyingHow to tie a bollard hitch
The orange arrow shows the movement to the next step. The yellow and blue lines tell the two lines apart. The last image shows the finished knot.
Step 1 Take the line around the bollard and back towards the standing part.
Step 2 Take one more turn around the bollard so the line gets a full round turn and grips well.
Step 3 Make two half hitches in the same direction around the standing part. Pull them tight and leave a generous tail.
Strengths and limitations
The round turn creates friction around the bollard; the half hitches hold the line in place.
Here, bollard hitch refers to a round turn and two half hitches. Naming varies. Use a correctly sized, undamaged line and protect it against chafe.
Practise with a loose line on land. Never use these practice knots for climbing or personal safety.
Frequently asked questions
How does it differ from two half hitches?
This adds an extra round turn around the bollard before the two half hitches. It gives more friction and helps you hold the load while making fast.
Sources
Practise more knots
Bowline
A fixed loop, for example around a bollard.
Figure-eight knot
A stopper knot that prevents the line from running through a fitting.
Two half hitches
Secures a line around a post or ring under steady load.
Reef knot
Ties two ends together around a bundle or a furled sail.
Sheet bend
Joins two lines, especially when they are of different thickness.
Slipped bowline
A temporary, quick-release hitch with a pull-out bight.
Cleating
Makes a line fast to a cleat.