Pre-Cut Line: Opti Painter (Bow Line) (30 Ft)

I've seen charter boats that have really thick bowlines, which again isn't good since it's like having a big heavy sponge on your bow. This bowline is pretty thin, and doesn't absorb water.

USODA class rules state that an Opti bowline needs to be 8 meters, or about 26’3”. To be on the safe side so that you measure in, I recommend a bowline of 27 feet long. But don't go over this, because then it's extra weight in your bow. More rope in your bow is slow because it absorbs more water, which is surprisingly heavy.

Even if you're not worried about speed or class rules, this is a good bowline because it floats on the water, which makes it easy for a coach or instructor to pick up.

Having a 27 foot bowline is important because it allows each Opti to be towed in a "daisy chain" manner, and have enough space so that boats don't crash into each other.

- Ethan Sargent