14. Anchoring & the windlass
Setting your anchor:
Preparation:
Establish a nonverbal communication system between helmsperson and windlass operator, as
with the noise of the engine and wind, verbal communication proves difficult.
Shorten the painter so that it cannot go under the yacht and wrap around the prop.
Location:
Choose a clear area to anchor in and you can see the bottom. A white bottom is sand and
perfect for anchoring. A brown or green bottom will be grass, rock or coral.
Only anchor in
sand
. The maximum depth would be 1/5
th
of your anchor rode. Remember the depth is set
from the bottom of your keel so keel draft should be added to the reading of your depth
gauge.
Anchoring on a lee shore is not recommended and would recommend using both your
primary and secondary anchor if you choose to anchor off a lee shore. (See below)
Action:
Always have your engine revs increased to @ 1400 rpms before windlass operator touches
the windlass remote. The windlass needs optimum energy to operate correctly.
Minimum scope is 5:1. In heavy weather you may want to increase that, always ensuring
your swing area is clear of any obstacles.
Use the elements; approach from downwind or current, whichever prevails.
Have the anchor ready to deploy. This may require you to slack the chain and manually push
the anchor slightly overboard so that it will go deploy when you press down on the remote.
Once the yacht is stationary use the electric windlass to drop the anchor to the sea floor. The
elements will push you back and away from the anchor. Keep deploying chain until you have
acquired the correct scope. Attach the snubbing line.
Always attach the snubbing line before setting the anchor with the engine and whilst you are
anchored. The snubbing line protects the windlass, and it is important that you attach the
snubber every time you set the anchor.
Attach the hook around the chain link (the hook is
too big to go through the link) and cleat off the bitter end of the line on to a bow cleat. Pay
out enough chain so that the snubbing line becomes taut.
