Use sound attachment points
Inspect rings and bollards. Where pins are allowed, drive them securely into suitable ground and keep trip hazards off the towpath. Do not tie to trees or structures unless local rules allow it.
Allow for movement
Set bow and stern lines so passing boats and changes in level do not snatch them tight. On rivers and tidal water, pay particular attention to rising and falling water.
Check before leaving
Test each line, fender the contact points and make sure the boat cannot drift across the channel. Revisit the setup after the first few boats pass.
Before you go
- Inspect rings or permitted pins
- Allow for water-level changes
- Keep lines off the towpath