Ahoy Captains,

I use a Bowline on the cleats on the metal strut between the bows on a Leopard yacht. Anyone can use a cleat hitch. Anyone can also use the same hard point on the bows used by the lines for the anchor snub.
I use a bowline to the same hard point on the bows on the Lagoon yacht as used by the lines for the anchor snub.
If you use the hard points on the bow you must use a very high quality Stainless Steel shackle if the hard point is a tight fit. With a SS shackle I do not think you need a SS thimble, but it would be more reliable.
The only source in the BVI for high quality Stainless Steel shackles is now sold out of this –
https://sea-dog.com/groups/266-snap-hook model # 151125 about $100.oo.
This quality of line is available at Nanny Cay Marine and Golden Hind at about $3.oo foot. I would start with 1’ of line for 1’ of LWL and cut to fit.
https://budgetmarine.com/catalog/ri...ublebraid-line-polyester-16mm-red-flk-f/ with 14 mm for under 40’ Yachts and 16mm for over 40’.

I can Not over emphasize how important it is to get a Snap Hook with over 3000 lb. rated load.
The model #151125 shackle on a Leopard 45, with a displacement of 30K lbs, will start to deform the shackle at the gate at 50 Knots and gusting.
The shackle is the weakest point.

Capt. George,
Very Good Question.
If you use a cleat hitch on the cleats on a Leopard you Can release this rig under load, but you would be abandoning the rig to the mooring, a small price if the Yacht is in danger, and possible to reclaim later under favorable conditions.
With a Bowline you can Not release this under a load. You can cut it in an emergency at the hard points, a small price if the Yacht is in danger, and possible to reclaim later under favorable conditions, minus a few feet of line.

I will post Pictures ASAP.

Fair Winds, Brent from thecaptainscompass.com