So, I'm a chartering newb - we just returned from our first charter in the BVI.
When we were at Great Harbor, the ball we were on had a missing painter. I wound up tying to the eye at the end of the mooring chain (that the painter itself would normally attach to). It was a little more difficult than simply grabbing a painter, but otherwise we had no problems.
Was that a bad thing for me to do?
If it's just for a couple hours, you should be fine. But, if it's overnight and especially if its rough a line chafing through could be a concern.
Now, if the ball itself is poorly maintained it doesn't matter what you tie to, you're in trouble.
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