Towing line for dingy

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Stuart Gordon

I just ordered a an 8'6" Zodiac inflatable with a Honda 2hp, 4 stroke (I want to keep the rig simple and light). I understand that polypropylene line is recommended for towing the dingy as it floats and will not foul the prop. Question is, how do you tie a knot in the polypropylene tow line to fasten it to the boat and the towing bridal? Polypropylene will not accept knots. Any ideas would be appreciated.
 
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Nick

Here's One Way . . .

Here's one way . . . Have a rigger finger trap the ends of the polypropylene line so you have a small loop on each end. You can then use a Lark's Head knot (that's passing the line through it's own loop) to attach it to the dingy. The other end (or loop) can go around a stern cleat on your boat. If you don't have a rigger, and don't care to learn how to finger trap, (not hard) go on down to your local water ski supply store and purchase some ski tow rope. These have the loops already installed. BTW, if you intend to tow on open waters, the length of the tow rope becomes a factor. Make sure you have enough to get the dingy riding in the sweet spot. This spot changes with sea conditions and boat speed. I have several different pieces aboard I can tie together (again with Lark's Head knots) for other uses as well. Nick "Julia Bell" C-27, #86
 
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RonD

Use a bridle on the dinghy, too

The dinghy rides much better towed with a bridle. It has two lines that will clip to the "D" rings on the dinghy port/starboad bow. It usually has a small float where the two lines come together. The usual dinghy painter attached at the bow end can serve as a backup connection if conditions are rough. I use a nylon dock line between the boat & bridle for towing, as it handles the shock-loads better. I can adjust its length to the sea conditions. Since it doesn't float, I'll haul the dinghy in close to the stern -- with the bridle end up by the transom -- when under slow speed engine power. --Ron
 
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Stuart

Thanks

Thanks for the responses below. They have effectively answered my question.
 
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