For the safety of the vessel, anchorage plays a very important role and should be given careful consideration. How you anchor your yacht also affects other watercraft in the area and therefore an important set of guidelines must always be followed. In this blog, we’ll discuss the standards that each sailor must consider for a steady and safe anchorage.
Anchoring 101: Expert tips for yacht anchorage
Every yachtowner should know how to anchor his or her yacht, regardless of the size of the yacht. Even if you opt for a rental yacht you need to have knowledge of this procedure, just to be on the safe side. Because even if you find a good yacht rental in Dubai, in Ibiza or in Monaco and they have a captain that comes with the rental price, you might end up in a situation where you have to rely on yourself. In those emergency situations, you need to know how to anchor.
Have a look at the best tips from seasoned professionals to anchor your vessel with confidence and have a great time on the water with your yacht.
- Selecting the right location
- Study the weather conditions
- Use the right anchor
- Anchor correctly
- Monitoring the yacht
- Be mindful of the environment
Selecting the right location
The location you pick for the yacht anchorage has to be correct. The right location shields your vessel from the heavy wind and the high and allows sufficient depth for the anchorage. Restricted areas and no anchoring zones must be avoided to keep problems at bay. Also, don’t forget to check for rocks and such obstructions underwater that could damage your ship or its anchor.
Study the weather conditions
It’s recommended that the captain/sailor must check the weather conditions. The yacht’s position and the holding strength of the anchor be badly affected by the tides, waves and even the wind. As discussed, ensure that the location is favorable and there are no expected high tides so the yacht keeps floating while anchoring.
Use the right anchor
Choose the anchor as per the seabed conditions in the anchorage. For example, a Delta anchor is best for sandy or rocky bottoms and a Bruce anchor fits well for rocky or weedy bottoms. It’s essential to establish that the correct anchor is being used as per the anchorage and can hold the yacht in place. Also, check that the anchor is well-maintained and has a long enough chain or rope to reach the bottom.
Anchor correctly
After you have selected the right location and the perfect anchor, now you need to anchor your yacht. Focus on approaching the anchorage very carefully while following the recommended standards.
“Care should be taken to ensure that there are no power lines, submarine cables, pipelines or rocks at the bottom of the anchorage.”
Keep the anchor low and slow to allow it to reach the bottom before letting go of the length of the chain or rope. Only once the anchor is set firmly in the seabed you should lightly reverse the engine to test its holding strength.
Monitoring the yacht
Your job isn’t over after you’ve anchored the yacht. You also need to carefully monitor its position and the holding capacity of the anchor. Keep an eye on the weather conditions and make necessary adjustments in the yacht’s position regularly so your yacht remains safe and secure.
Be mindful of the environment
Don’t forget the environment while anchoring your yacht. Show your respect for nature and avoid any action that might damage marine creatures. Try to avoid anchoring in regions with seagrass, coral reefs and other habitats as much as possible. Yet another very important thing is to not throw any trash or waste in the water and only use eco-friendly cleaning products.
Popular ways of anchoring a yacht
There’s not one right way to anchor a yacht. The technique entirely depends on the size and type of the vessel, the depth of the water, the underground condition and of course, the prevailing weather. For safe anchoring, the most suitable practice for the specific yacht and local guidelines must be followed.
- Bow anchoring
- Stern anchoring
- Mediterranean mooring
- Screw-in anchors
- Multiple anchors
Bow anchoring
This is the most popular way of anchoring where the anchor is dropped from the bow of the yacht.
Stern anchoring
In this method, the anchor is dropped from the stern of the yacht. This can be a great idea in situations like when there happens to be a strong current or wind.
Mediterranean mooring
Under this technique, the yacht is tied vertical to the dock with an anchor set on shore. This is commonly used in the Mediterranean region.
Screw-in anchors
It involves the presence of specialized anchors that get screwed into the seabed for providing a strong and assured grip.
Multiple anchors
Those who want extra security to combat the expected challenging conditions or strong winds use multiple anchors.
Holding power of different types of anchors
The size & weight of the anchor, the length and diameter of the anchor rode, wind power and current determine the holding power of an anchor.
| Anchor Type | Holding Power |
| Fluke | Good in soft mud or sand, poor in hard or rocky bottoms |
| Plow | Good in soft mud or sand, fair in hard bottoms |
| Claw | Good in hard bottoms, fair in soft mud or sand |
| Mushroom | Good in soft mud or silt, poor in other bottom types |
| Danforth | Good in sand and mud, poor in hard or rocky bottoms |
| Delta | Good in most bottom types, including grass and kelp |
Anchor like a pro with best practices
In a nutshell, yacht anchorage is an indispensable element of yachting that needs mindful supervision and adherence to essential and expert guidelines. Always study the weather and tide conditions before anchoring the vessel to ascertain the safety and stability.
By keeping in mind all the guidelines and safety measures, your yacht is sure to have a safe and perfect anchorage. Don’t forget to follow the regulations and correct approaches and you shall have an ultimate yachting experience that will always stay in your memories.
