Anchoring Guide and General Principles

• Anchors work best when pulling horizontally on the seabed.
  
• This is achieved when sufficient chain or rope is laid out .
  
• As a general guide 4 times the depth of water for chain and 6 times the depth of water for rope as a minimum to get a good catenary. Due allowance for rise and fall of tide should be made which may mean letting out more at high water.
  
• Anchor should be matched to length of boat and displacement and if in doubt choose an anchor one size up or seek guidance from Manufacturer as different types of anchor will have variation in performance weight for weight. The type of seabed bottom will also influence performance and type of anchor chosen.
  
• Stowage on the bow roller or foredeck may also be a factor in making a decision.
  
• Anchor chain can be marked with colour coded depth markers (keep a record) to help judge how much has been let out. Similarly windlasses will usually have a chain counter which record how much has been scoped.
  
• It is suggested that for a rope warp that 5m of chain are added between rope and anchor for additional weight to achieve a good horizontal pull.
  
• When considering how much warp to carry (apart from locker size to carry) consider having a reserve over and above for abnormal conditions in your local cruising area. Ensure bitter end is secured in the locker to prevent losing your ground tackle overboard when paying out in full.
  
• The anchor shackle should be moused(secured) with wire to prevent the shackle working loose whilst on the seabed.