Marlinespike is the art of seamanship that includes the tying of various knots, splicing, working with cable or wire rope, worming, parceling, serving and even making decorative ornaments from rope or line.

The name marlinespike is derived from the tool that is used for splicing. It can be a tapered metal pin or carved of wood.

Once a rope is onboard a boat and is given a specific purpose, such as dock line, halyard, etc. it is called a line, not a rope.

Although you won’t be asked to actually tie a knot for your USCG License exam, you should be familiar with several knots, know how to tie them, how to recognize them and be able to explain their use. Also, if you are going for a 100 ton Masters license you will need to know about wire rope, breaking strengths, block and tackle (pronounced taykle), etc.

Types of Rope Construction

Rope Materials

Breaking Strength

Safe Working Load

Terminology

Line Handling and Stowing

Knots to Know

How to Tie Useful Knots for Boaters

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