Bow Line

A mooring line leading from the bow area of a vessel to a shore fitting or other secure point.

It helps control the bow’s position and is used with stern, breast and spring lines as required. The direction in which it leads determines whether it mainly restrains movement away from the berth, along the berth or a combination of both.

There is no universal rule that the bow line must be the first line ashore. The safest and most effective sequence depends on wind, stream, berth geometry, vessel handling and the line that will provide useful initial control without exposing crew to bights or excessive loads.

Basic Mooring Terminology