What is a nautical rope?

Answer 1

Answer 1

Gererally, a nautical rope is called a 'line' unless it has a specific function. The word "rope" is not typically used in the marine industry.

A 'halyard' is a line used as a hoist (as for a sail).

A 'sheet' is a line used to trim a sail.

'Tackle' is a collection of lines and blocks ("pulleys") used to gain mechanical advantage.

'Rode' is the line connecting an anchor to the boat. Usually it's part chain and part line.

Springs and breast lines are used to tie a boat to a dock.

A snubber is a short piece of nylon line used to provide some elasticity to a loaded line.

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Answer 2

A rope used at sea that will not degrade chemically under the action of water and Sun.

In commercial use for mooring and towing, polypropylene is the type of rope use most commonly because it is cheap and it has some elasticity.

For ropes that must not be elastic, like the shrouds supporting a mast, kevlar is a good alternative to steel.