Cast Off

To release a mooring, towing or other securing line from its fitting.

The expression is commonly used when a vessel leaves a berth, buoy, rafted position or tow. A line may be cast off from aboard, released ashore and recovered, or slipped so that it can run free without someone remaining on the berth.

The order and timing depend on the departure plan, wind, stream, tide and which line is controlling the vessel. Loaded lines should be eased under control, with people clear of bights and snap-back areas, rather than simply thrown free.