A cleat is a T-shaped or horned fitting made of metal, wood, or plastic, securely mounted on a boat’s deck, mast, or a dock. It is used to tie off or secure lines (ropes) for sailing, mooring, or anchoring. Common types include horn cleats (using figure-eight knots) and cam cleats (for quick, auto-locking adjustment).

Common Types of Cleats in Sailing
Horn Cleat: The standard, T-shaped fitting featuring two horns to wrap a line around in a figure-eight pattern for holding a heavy load.

Cam Cleat: Features spring-loaded teeth that automatically grip a line, perfect for frequently adjusted lines like jib sheets.

Clam/Jam Cleat: A fixed fitting with a ridged V-groove that jams the line in place via friction, commonly used for smaller lines or lighter loads.

Key Purposes
Securing Lines: Fastening halyards (for raising sails) and sheets (for controlling sail trim).

Mooring/Docking: Securing the boat to a dock or piling using dock lines, explains Tommy Docks.

Anchoring: Holding the anchor line under tension.