Which component allows a boat to be secured by a rope?

The component that allows a boat to be secured by a rope is the cleat. A cleat is a fitting on a boat or dock that is designed specifically for tying off lines securely. When a rope is wrapped around a cleat and secured, it ensures that the boat remains stationary, preventing it from drifting away due to wind or water currents. Cleats come in various designs, but their primary function remains the same: to provide a reliable point for mooring or securing ropes.

The gunwale refers to the top edge of a boat's side and does not serve the purpose of securing lines. The propeller is a part of the engine system used for propulsion, and the draft is a term used to describe how deep the boat sits in the water, which pertains to the boat's buoyancy and stability rather than its mooring capabilities. Thus, the cleat is the correct choice as it is specifically designed for the function of securing a boat with a rope.