Albert Barnes Commentary Acts 27:32

"Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off." — Acts 27:32 (ASV)

Cut off the ropes, etc. It is evident that the mariners had not yet boarded the boat. They had let it down into the sea (Acts 27:30) and were about to board. By thus cutting the ropes that fastened the boat to the ship and letting it go, they removed all possibility of their fleeing from the ship and compelled them to remain on board.