Anchoring
EnglishEspañol
Choosing a spot, scope, lowering instead of throwing, setting gently, checking the set, the anchor light, and keeping hands clear of the windlass.
Sources (7)
- Check the chart for bottom type and a safe, allowable place; give rocks, shoals, reefs and other boats a wide berth; allow for a 360-degree swing — boatus.org
- BoatUS recommends 7:1 scope, measured from the height of the bow above the bottom; 5:1 is sufficient for a lightweight anchor on a small boat in good weather; more rode helps as wind picks up — boatus.org
- Head into the wind or current, reduce speed and reverse; lower, do not throw, the anchor; take two bearings that form a range to check for dragging; show an all-around white light at night — boatus.org
- Review chart information and cable/pipeline symbols before anchoring to avoid damaging undersea infrastructure — pacificarea.uscg.mil
- Lay the rode out in a line; set by reversing gently and building to a firm pull while watching a transit; set a GPS anchor alarm; on all-chain rig a snubber — sailquiz.com
- A snubber takes the load off the windlass onto a bow cleat and adds elasticity to an all-chain rode — practical-sailor.com
- Keep hands and loose clothing clear of the windlass and chain at all times, especially if the chain jams — fisheriessupply.com
General guidance for recreational boaters — your engine and equipment manuals and local regulations come first.