How to Tie the Water Bowline (Double Bowline)
The Double Bowline
The Water Bowline, also known as the Double Bowline, is a secure loop knot that creates a fixed loop at the end of a rope. It is valued for its added security compared to the standard bowline, as the extra turn around the standing part helps distribute load and reduce the likelihood of the knot loosening or jamming in the water.
Water Bowline Instructions
The Water Bowline remains a fundamental knot taught in boating, sailing, climbing, and rescue courses. Its combination of security, reliability, and relative ease of untying after loading has made it a longstanding favourite among mariners and rope users around the world. Compared to the standard bowline, the additional turn provides extra stability and strength in the water, making it a preferred choice when a more secure wet loop knot is desired.
Key Considerations
Leaving plenty of tag-end after tying a Water Bowline is important, particularly when the knot will be subjected to repeated loading, movement, vibration, and most importantly, water. A tail of at least 6 to 12 inches is commonly recommended, although more may be appropriate depending on the application. An adequate tail length helps provide an additional margin of safety and reduces the possibility of the knot working loose over time, especially in the water.
Advantages & Disadvantages
One of the key advantages of the Water Bowline is its ability to remain secure while still being relatively easy to untie after bearing a load. Users can create a strong, fixed loop without needing complex knotwork, yet still trust that the knot will perform reliably under normal conditions. However, the additional turn makes the knot slightly more complicated to tie and inspect than a standard bowline, and it can consume more rope. As with any knot, proper dressing and setting are important to ensure maximum security and performance.
ABOK #1012 - The Double Bowline
Ashley’s Book of Knots describes the Water Bowline Loop Knot as: “If a Bowline is to be towed through the water a second Half Hitch may be added. Wet knots are apt to jam, and the extra hitch lessens this tendency.”
Disclaimer
The information on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, knot strength, security, and suitability can vary depending on rope type, condition, load, environmental factors, and how the knot is tied. Users are responsible for inspecting their equipment and verifying that a knot is appropriate for their intended use. Do not rely solely on the information provided here for activities involving personal safety, life support, climbing, rescue operations, heavy lifting, or other high-risk applications.
SCB Media Group assumes no responsibility or liability for any injury, loss, damage, or consequences resulting from the use or misuse of the knots and techniques described. Always seek professional instruction and follow applicable safety standards where appropriate.
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