August 01, 2025

Eildon Houseboat Tips – Houseboat Mooring Tip Bowlines

Reduce Stress When Mooring Your Houseboat – Master the Bowline Knot!

The Bowline knot is one of the most valuable knots every boater should master, particularly for houseboat owners on Lake Eildon. Strong, versatile, and easy to untie, it’s a must-know for safe and stress-free mooring.

Whether you’re a first-time deckhand or a seasoned boat master, the Bowline has proven itself time and again. In fact, I’ve never boarded a vessel without using one. Years ago, while working as a commercial skipper, I towed a broken-down boat through heavy seas in Bass Strait. The line held firm, and the Bowline never slipped—a true test of its reliability.

Learning the Bowline takes only a few steps, and with practice, you can tie it quickly even under pressure. Begin by making a small loop—then remember the classic saying: “The rabbit comes out of the hole, around the tree, and back through the hole.” Once mastered, the Bowline provides a secure hold for towing, mooring, or tying off at your houseboat marina on Lake Eildon.

Mooring Tips for Houseboat Owners

  • Inspect your mooring lines for wear before docking.

  • Use reliable knots like the Bowline when securing pontoons.

  • Keep spare lines on board in case of emergencies.

  • Practice knot-tying often to improve confidence and safety.

By mastering essential knots like the Bowline, you’ll make houseboat mooring safer, smoother, and more efficient. In addition, strong line management skills reduce stress and protect your investment.

If you’d like to learn more about boating knots, splicing, or line maintenance, get in touch with the team at Lake Eildon Boat Sales. We’re here to help you make every day on the lake easier and more enjoyable.

Chris