How to Attach Rope to a Boat
- 1). Wrap the rope around the base of the cleat at least one time, starting on the outboard side of the cleat -- the side of the cleat that faces the water, rather than the center of the boat. If the cleat is large enough, wrap the rope around the base up to three times.
- 2). Bring the rope upward and across the top of the horn of the cleat (the arm-like appendages on the top of the cleat).
- 3). Wrap the rope under the horn of the cleat, then bring the rope upward again and over the top of the cleat.
- 4). Wrap the rope under the opposite horn of the cleat, forming a figure-8. Repeat the figure-8 wrap at least two more times.
Source...