What are lifelines for?

A hand hold to get on the boat, A place to grab to bring the boat closer
to the dock, something to hold onto when you're rail meat. A place to
tie off sheets when the furler is furled, a place to tie off the boom
tent, a back rest when a foam roll is added, a tie off for fenders, a
cloth line, a hand hold when going forward from the cockpit and coming
back, a place to rig splash guards, a place to hang drink holder for
beer cans, a barracade to keep from stepping off the boat by accident,
etc

They might even keep you from going in the drink if you lose your
balance. they might even help you maintain yourself on the high side
when heeling (?)

They are neat to have but aren't really necessary.

I like mine!

Ole Thom