How to Attach a Tow Rope to Your Boat or Jet Ski: A Complete Guide

Whether you're wakeboarding, tubing, skiing, or just out for some summer fun, one thing is essential: a secure and safe tow rope connection to your vessel. With so many different types of attachment points on boats and jet skis, it can be confusing to know which method is right for your setup.

In this guide, we walk you through the most common tow points and exactly how to attach your rope—so you can hit the water with confidence.

1. Center Tow Point (Ski Pylon or Bollard)

The most common tow point is a center-mounted bollard, found on wakeboard boats, ski boats, and jet skis.

• If your bollard is recessed, simply loop the tow rope over it and you’re good to go.

• If there’s no recess, use a figure-eight loop for added security. Loop once, then loop again over the top to create a firm connection.

2. Ski Hook (Ring and Spoke Style)

Next up is the ski hook, usually found on ski boats and some crossover models. It’s a metal ring with a central spoke.

To attach:

• Bring the looped end of your rope up from the rear of the boat.

• Hook it over the central prong.

• Pull the rope tight toward the rider.

This method is quick, secure, and commonly used on many recreational vessels.

3. Jet Ski Center Tow Cleat

On many jet skis, you’ll find a center tow cleat with recessed sides and a hole in the middle.

To attach:

• Thread the rope up through the center hole.

• Loop it around each side of the recessed cleat.

• Pull tight, and you’re ready to tow.

4. Jet Ski with Closed D-Ring

If your jet ski doesn’t have a dedicated cleat but features a closed D-ring at the rear, you can loop the tow rope through and pull it through itself. However, this method can be time-consuming and difficult to undo after towing.

We recommend:
Use a Jet Ski Quick Connect or bridle. These tools make it faster and easier to attach and change ropes.

How to use:

• Loop the quick connect through the D-ring and back on itself.

• Thread your tow rope through the quick connect and pull tight.

5. Boats Without Center Tow Points

No center tow point? No problem. You’ll need an outboard bridle.

This setup uses:

• Two looped ends that connect to each side of the vessel (transom or handles).

• A pulley in the middle to ensure consistent pull behind the boat.

6. Open Ski Hooks (Outboard Boats)

Many outboard boats feature open ski hooks—D-rings with clips.

To connect your outboard bridle:

• Loop the bridle’s end over the ski hook.

• Secure it under the clip to prevent it from slipping off.

• Repeat on the other side.

• Then thread your tow rope through the pulley in the middle.

7. Closed D-Rings (Without Room for Loops)

If your boat or ski has closed D-rings, and your bridle loops won’t fit, you’ll need snap hooks.

You can:

• Buy snap hooks separately.

• Or get bridles with snap hooks pre-installed.

Simply snap onto each D-ring and then attach your tow rope to the bridle as usual.

8. Tinnies and Rear Handles

Some boats, especially tinnies, have no ski hooks or bollards—but they may have sturdy rear handles.

Important: Snap hooks won’t fit around handles.

Here’s the solution:

• Use two jet ski quick connects, one on each handle.

• Loop each quick connect around its handle and pull through.

• Then attach your outboard bridle to the quick connects using the loop-and-thread method.

• Now your bridle is secure and ready for your tow rope.

Final Thoughts

No matter what kind of boat or jet ski you have, there’s a reliable way to attach a tow rope. Whether you’re using ski pylons, cleats, D-rings, or just a set of handles, a combination of bridles, quick connects, and snap hooks will get the job done safely and efficiently.

If you're unsure what attachment method is best for your vessel, don't hesitate to reach out—we're happy to help you find the right setup so you can get out and enjoy the water.

Need Gear?
We stock everything from outboard bridles and quick connects to snap hooks and tow ropes.

👉 Visit our store or contact us for more info.
🎥 Want to see it all in action? Check out our full video guide on YouTube.