Make Fast

Securing a rope, line or vessel so it remains held in place.

This is used when attaching mooring lines to cleats, bollards, rings, buoys or other strong points. The line should be led fairly, protected from chafe and tied in a way that can be released safely when under normal load. Crew should avoid standing in bights or placing hands where a loaded line may trap them. Clear instructions are useful when coming alongside, as several lines may need to be secured in a particular order.