Knots are fundamental to seafaring - what they do, when to use them and how to tie them. This is why sea scouts spend so much time learning Marlinspike Seamanship, which not only covers knots, but also splicing, seizing and whipping.
This is how Wikipedia describes a marlinspike:
"Marlinspike; (sometimes marlin spike, marlinespike, or the archaic marlingspike/marling-spike) is a tool used in marine rope-work. Shaped in the form of a polished metal cone tapered to a rounded or flattened point, it is used in such tasks as unlaying rope for splicing, untying knots, drawing marline tight using a marlinspike hitch, and as a toggle joining ropes under tension in a belaying pin splice.
Most marlinspikes are 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) long, but may reach 2 feet (61 cm) and more for working heavy cables and ropes. They are usually made from iron or steel, whereas fids, similar in shape and function, are formed from wood or bone. The marlinspike may be a separate tool or one item on a pocket knife.
Sailors who become proficient at knot tying, splicing, and sewing using the marlinspike are said to have mastered marlinspike seamanship, earning them the right to be known as marlin spikes or marlinspike seamen."
The Seas Scout manual devotes around 20 pages to marlinspike seamanship, and while it's knot rocket science, there is plenty to learn.
Mastery of the topic is needed for advancement and is often tested in competitions, sometimes even requiring that knots be tied while blindfolded! Last but knot least, proficiency in knots is crucial to safe sailing. Honestly, when it comes to marlinspike seamanship, what's knot to like?
If you haven't knot a clue about where to start, here is a useful video to get you started.
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