Hello guys.... sorry i left you for a couple of weeks... I recently changed my contract at work into a part time, so I had to do some financial reorganizing, but I re-became one of your patrons again... your work is simply too good not to be thankful for .... let us know the moment you want us to support you directly and other than via patreon..ok? Hugs to both!!!
[Liz] Yes, I just saw you're back in the Patreon crew, THANK YOU! So with all that free time, I guess you'll be doing lots of...sailing?! I'll certainly let you know as soon as we're up and running with the new initiative. It's all very exciting. Thanks so much for commenting. Peace and the fairest of winds to you in the new year, Alex!
It’s frightening just how much more in-depth a 16 min video is on the subject of anchoring than an entire day skippers course!!! That’s for this, we’re planning our first ever anchorage for tomorrow 👌⛵️
Hahaha...your opening was HILARIOUS! and correct. For whatever reason, armchair cruisers LOVE to argue about anchoring! But here's the thing: Most of these blowhards never anchor out. I do, and have for years. The type of anchor and ground tackle you use is important, but not nearly as important as the good seamanship neccessary to properly maintain, deploy, set, and retrieve said ground tackle. ...and if you are anchored anywhere the least bit sketchy in terms of wind and waves, you damn well better be prepared to weigh that anchor and get the hell out of there before you drag - regardless of what brand of anchor is set. Around here, everything is an open ocean roadstead and a potential lee shore with big waves. I have a rule - once the anchorage starts white-capping, waves are bigger than a foot, and the wind is onshore, I put out to sea. Everyone should, because once it's blowing 30 or 40 knots and the waves are 10 feet, you are not gonna be able to retrieve that anchor - the best you can do is to buoy and slip it, and pray your able to sail out of trouble, because your motor isn't gonna save you. Best primary anchor depends on where you sail, and no single design is good for everywhere, but a Delta or scoop type are generally best at both reliable setting and holding power. Danforths are great storm anchors, as long as you get them properly set, but will not reliably re-set when the wind shifts. Ideally the fist 150 feet of your rode should be chain, and the rest nylon....and size your primary anchor one or two sizes larger than the manufacturer reccomends. No one has ever dragged because their anchor was too big, or because they put out too much chain, lol....
Great video as always. When somebody starts to set up anchor too close I have been known to step out in the cockpit naked to give them a overly friendly wave. Nobody wants to anchor next to the big heavily tattooed crazy naked man. Thankfully it hasn't lead to any arrests yet. :)
+Coop W [Liz] Glad you liked it.👌Ooh, really hope your wife gives it a try. Watch out for "How to be a Liveaboard", you'll both find it interesting, it's coming out over Christmas. Peace and fair winds!
Sailing followtheboat I don't hear it in American English. Seems like a fun & mildly chaotic combination of 'Put in my 2 cents' and 'Stir the pot'. :-)
yes.. its a similar expression. Unlike 'not enough room to swing a cat' which relates to the cat o nine tales used on ships as a form of punishment. It is to actually throw a cat into a flock of pigeons.. which will cause chaos..
Yes great advice Jamie and very well presented. First time I anchored I used a grapple and just picked it up and through it over the front of my 15 foot Dory and waited till the chain stopped paying out, feeling pleased with myself, sat back to enjoy a beer thinking well that was easy. It was about an hour later when I noticed the land had come very close. checked anchor and discovered it was no longer on the bottom but swinging like a pendulum about 10 feet below the bow, Oops.
Really good advice. I started off my cruising in an area with very large tidal ranges (Bristol Channel - 10+ meters). So I also worry about the varying depth of water. 5 metres can become 'high and dry' quite quickly if you are not careful. I tend to anchor pretty much on a contour line if possible. Then, after anchoring I work out what the theoretical depth should be based on rise of tide etc. I then check this with the depth sounder (and usually a lead line as well - I know that's going one too far). If the reality agrees with the theory, then I can sleep soundly (I also have a Rocna) knowing I will have enough water under the keel for my stay, and have also calculated the scope correctly for maximum depth...until someone anchors right next to me. My pet hate too.
+Just about sailing [Liz] You can never go too far when it comes to anchoring safely, sounds to me like you take all the right precautions. 👍 Yes, having a Rocna helps us sleep soundly too. And twits right next to us get a full blast of techno from our sound system to rock them to sleep, haha!
Great information. Anchoring is one of the weaker spots in our overall experience curve, since we do it so rarely here. Last year we upgraded to a new 45lb Mantus and because it was a boat show they gave us a great package deal on a full package -everything but the windlass and chain, which we already had. In retrospect we should have gone to the 55lb anchor instead and may still do that, mounting the 45lb on the stern rail as a spare/stern anchor. In addition to the anchor and matching Mantus bow roller we got their Mantus chain swivel and a dual-bridle snubber with their own special locking chain hook that looks pretty slick. We've never actually used the snubber yet since we have not had a chance to over-night. When we anchor here in Chicagoland it is always a "lunch hook" and is always in great weather so we have simply left the chain on the bow roller. I've used snubbers before when cruising in the gulf and the keys though. I don't think I'd be comfortable sleeping without a snubber but I notice a lot of folks do leave the chain right on their windlass long-term. Shock loads...
[Liz] I looked at the Mantus bridle set-up, and agree that it looks pretty slick. Now that we've switched to a pure line snubber with rolling hitch, though, I can't see us going back to any other way. Not using a snubber is crazy, the stress on the bow roller would severely damage it in any kind of swell. Thanks for sharing! Peace and fair winds!
Great Great GREAT INFORMATION! Well described. We are going on our first sailing season next summer and hopefully many anchor spots. I will definitely have that video in mind and see it several times again. THANKS! and as always .... big thumbs from here. (We Got the Rocna)
Thank you very much for this clear video, Jamie! We just did our first real anchorage and it's good to get some info from people like you, who have a lot of experience and knowledge. Happy greetingz, Wim
[Liz] Maybe I'm more visible because I'm the one up the front when we weigh or drop anchor, but Jamie does most of the running around on deck when we're underway! I'd say we do 50:50 of the muscle work - it's good for both of us! Hope we keep you entertained. Peace and fair winds!
Jamie, have ever thought of making a career of teaching. I love the way you deliver the info because you are convincing and seem as though you master the skills you talk about. ..that makes a huge difference on the recieving end! Very informative ...even more so for a cruiser wannabe like me! 🎅🏼🇨🇦 BTW happy holidays to you and Liz!
+André Boudreau [Liz] So pleased you think we know what we're talking about 🤣! All we try to do is pass on our own experiences, and we don't pretend to know it all by any means. Hope the plans are coming along well for your liveaboard life, sounds exciting. We have our updated "How to be a liveaboard" coming out in a couple of weeks, which you may find interesting. Thanks for the lovely comment. Wishing you peace and fair winds in the new year.
Jamie, thank you very much for this great piece of advice. Having been on watch steaming against the anchor to prevent dragging this is a subject I am very interested in. Great information and I appreciate the time you have spent to make this video. TomS
[Liz] Too right! We still sit in the cockpit in severe swells/storms...you never know what might be coming towards you. 😬 Thanks for commenting. Peace and fair winds!
Hi Liz and Jamie, thanks for making me feel like a superstar! And, for the fantastic vlog on anchoring, of course. My first call-out on social media...wow. Kind of like when you imagine your name in lights on Broadway...LOL. Well, not really, but it was fun to see my name and request. ;-). Oh, and merci for nailing the pronunciation of my name-well done :-) Your vlog confirmed three things for me. 1) Upgrade my ground tackle. My 25’ of chain and 200’ of 1/2” triple braid and my 15 kg delta almost never bits in and just don’t cut it. (I sail at 39’ foot 19,000 lb boat on Lake Ontario and still have the original boat dealer’s “sail away” package for anchoring. This honestly looks sufficient for the uninitiated, but it’s not even close, so time to get real cruising gear here.) 2) Snubbers don’t have to be complicated and extra gear is not always necessary. I was intrigued that you don’t use two snubbers to balance port and starboard and keep the boat straight into wind and current, but realize from your vlog that the slight side load will likely keep the boat from swaying back and forth at anchor. A second snubber maybe only if winds are over 25 knots (?). And, most of all 3) Slow it down and take my time. Seems like we’re always late to anchorages and in a hurry to get settled in. This just adds stress to captain and especially crew. A stressed captain makes for a very stressed crew and a stressed crew is never a good thing. Love your channel and keep up the great vlogging.
+Yves Lemoine [Liz] I knew how to pronounce Yves because of Yves Montand! 😀 We're so pleased the video was of help. Yes, it sounds like you need to upgrade your ground tackle, you won't regret it. We don't use a second snubber unless conditions demand it, in which case we double up in case one of them snaps. From experience, I haven't noticed boats with two snubbers or a bridle swinging around any less - it's the wind, waves and currents which move the boat. Cheers, superstar! 🙏 😀👌
Hello.I use to put the snubber first and afterwards going astern.In this way I guess that my windless is more protected.I would like to listen your opinion on this. Thanks Elias Arkoulis
Think you mentioned you used a Rocna Delta anchor ? could you explain the weight of your anchor used on the 42 foot sail boat ? love all of your video's
Anchor may be a top choice for sure, but surely it holds equal weight to the following (situation dependent of course): Bilge pump, secondary bilge pump, life jacket, distress beacon, etc.
Hi, Jamie. I'm a new sailor. At about 6:20 you used the term "fetch". I googled it and got a few different definitions. Please define the term for me. Thanks. Yours is, hands down, the most informative channel, as I already know how to party.
[Liz] In a nutshell, the fetch is the build up of unobstructed wind and waves across an expanse of water (an ocean/sea/lake/etc). It can be intense and high, which is why you look for an anchorage that provides a barrier to the fetch slipping directly into the bay/harbour where you have dropped the hook. Hope that helps! Peace and fair winds.
Thank you for the informative video. We recently upgraded our old plough anchor after being hit with a couple of storms and dragging. We were on watch with our engines running so we didn't come to grief. But in one instance two boats ended up on the beach and in another a boat dragged onto another luckily the other was on watch and his anchor held them both. Do you keep a watch in heavy weather and do you start your engine? We are relatively inexperienced and got different advice about running engines. The new anchor we got is a sarca, similar design to the rocna, but much cheaper here in Australia where it is made. First time we dropped her in the water she set so quickly we nearly got whiplash. It was awesome no stuffing around for an hour to get the plough set.
[Liz] Why wouldn't you keep your engines running in bad conditions, I don't understand why anyone would tell you that's a bad idea. We do! We might have 100% faith in our ground tackle and anchoring technique, but what about the guy next to us, or the boat behind? Even a good anchor will twist and drag then re-set itself in some conditions. But supposing you've hooked someone else's anchor, or they've caught your chain? If you weren't on anchor watch you wouldn't know what was happening. All kinds of snarl ups can occur when the waves start pounding and the wind is howling in a busy anchorage. The only question is when to make the call to take anchor watch. Only you'll know when it feels right to you. If you're not happy, then make some coffee and get in the cockpit. If it's a packed anchorage we always go on anchor watch if conditions deteriorate, also if we're close to rocks/reefs/land. Being over cautious is the right attitude. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Sounds like you had the same experience that we had when we got our Rocna! We're so pleased we upgraded from the old CQR. Peace and fair winds!
Yes, Thank you for the great advice! Ground tackle sorted here but not sure proper style bow roller for Rocna 15Kg we're about to buy. 35' boat, 12,000lbs. Should be enough. Thanks for sharing your tips.. SV DIJAN
Nice job Jamie, so good to hear the correct calculation for the rode amount , " water depth x scope required". Simple the same the world over........ Oohps unless you are from America! The CG seamanship manual says what you said BUT it also says add the bowroller ht to the depth then multiply by scope! What a C*ck up! Then other guides just follow along like lemmings! Not a huge problem in deep water but in shallow water with a high bow like a power boat you could have double the rode out! That will be a big mess when the tidal current changes in a busy anchorage. Cheers Warren
Sailing followtheboat Thanks Jamie, if anybody was wondering what I was getting at here is an example Basically you want all boats in an anchorage to be using similiar scope, so in 10' of water at 3:1 you use 3x10=30' total. BUT using the Incorrect system where you add the bow roller hieght to the water depth before multiplying by scope ratio ,with say power boat with a 10' bow roller height at 3:1(10'+10')x3= 60'total. Double the real scope required and pandermonium in the anchorage when the tide changes. In the UK and USA east coast there can be some crowed anchorages one boat with 30' rode and one with 60' is not a good situation? Enjoy your almost deserted anchorages! Cheers Warren.
It's really about taking into account prevailing winds. If a boat anchors in front of you and the wind picks up, is there enough room for him to drag without endangering your boat? You'd be surprised how many sailors have no concept of this.
Hi Liz and Jamie, I'm wondering why you are not using a "Catanary Weight", I'm not sure if this is the correct term (we call it in German language "Reitgewicht"). I helps to keep the anchor chain parallel to the ground, prevents cherking of the chain and reduces the swinging radius of the yacht which is very welcome in tight anchorages. Lots of good hints in your video, keep the good work up. Thank you.
Hi Werner. Yes, someone mentioned this on a previous video. We should practice this tecnique. Sometimes, however, we like to keep it simple so we can get out quickly in an emergency. Thanks for the comment 👍
Very well explained and comprehensive for planning and executing an intended anchor situation. The investment in good, heavy and reliable ground tackle will really come into its own when used in extremis - engine failure and been driven onto lee shore - it could save your boat and your lives. As a matter of interest do you ever use a ‘bit of mizzen’ to calm the weather cocking?
+Norman Boyes Yes, we do! And we use it often, one of the advantages of a ketch rig. 😀 Thanks for the nice comment, we hope that this video will act as a starting point for newbies. Peace and fair winds!
You guys have a new sub. I like the way you tell things, like they are. I'll be joining Britican in a couple of weeks, don't know if you know them though.
[Liz] Weird comment... can't work out if you're saying Jamie sits and watches or I sit and watch. Whatever you're trying to express here, it couldn't be more wrong. If you think I sit and watch, then you haven't seen our videos. If you think Jamie sits and watches, you're not aware of a skipper's responsibilities and won't have seen all the solo sailing he does. But, hey, thanks for taking the time to comment. 👌
OK I might get some stick for this but here goes... My chain is 10mm calibrated, my anchor is a 1970 35lb CQR which I have 100% confidence in after surviving being anchored on a lee-shore in 65 knots of wind when Maria passed 40 miles North of me. She was a cat5 so about 185 knots when she hit Dominica. I do have two other anchors, a 15kg Danforth which I keep as a kedge anchor in case I ever run aground, but touch wood never happened yet, and a 5kg umbrella anchor for a zodiac. By the time the wind had hit 70 knots it was from the South ( before people say never anchor off a Lee-shore) In all my years of anchoring I have never dragged although I did foul my anchor on some garbage once, The CQR's come with a lifetime guarantee, for a very good reason, they're indestructible, and I'm of the opinion if it ain't broke don't fix it. As for snubber knots I use a constrictor knot, but they can be a bitch to untie when the rope is wet.
You do give me a chuckle I love your no nonsense, down to earth humour. i consider getting a face full of your back end a justifiable punishment for nosey neighbours!
Well there has been a lot of water under the boat since this video was done and I just have to put my advice in. 35,00 miles at sea, 95% anchored out. Mantis makes a much more secure chain grabber than the hook, so check it out. You never talked about anchors but modern boats need modern higher holding anchors. Check out SV Panope for the best anchors. The old CQR or Bruce just don't cut it anymore. A lot is said about the anchor and scope but nobody talks about the size and weight of chain. Just because it says high test doesn't mean it will keep you set, a 40 foot sailboat needs 3/8 chain. Yes, that's right. The heavier chain will exert a lot of friction on the bottom which will keep you in place. The pull must be along the seabed or your anchor will just pull out.
+Brian Evolved [Liz] Thanks for sharing here. 🙏 We use the Navionics app set to "track on", but no alarm. When conditions kick up Jamie's wide awake! Peace and fair winds!
I forgot to say the App Anchor Lite can be downloaded FREE from play store and works well on a Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 SM-T535 10.1 Tablet ....(it runs Navionics well) and I assume a phone (with GPS). Once the Anchor is set the app provides GPS accuracy in meters and the radius can be set also in meters. If the boat wanders outside the max radius an alarm sounds. . When I used it I heard the anchor dragging at seven in the morning and ten seconds later the alarm went off. Most most useful. Love what you guys are doing with your lives. PAFW to you both as well. Brian ..still in London.
Sailing followtheboat I do this by dropping a pin with tracking on - but I wish they would add an alarm that you could set at x metres of the pin departure.
[Liz] Yep, that's what we do with the Navionics app. We don't use the B&G anchor alarm, because we're always wide awake (well, Jamie is) as soon as the wind picks up, or Esper starts making the wrong noises. It's also another way to use up valuable battery juice overnight. I like the sound of Brian Evolved's app, though, might be useful if you're exhausted and less likely to wake up...
+Al Smitherman [Liz] It's a brilliant book, I hope you enjoy it! We have an alarm on our chartplotter, but don't often use it. We both use "track on" in our Navionics app on our phones. Thanks for commenting. 👌
the App Anchor Lite can be downloaded FREE from play store and works well on a Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 SM-T535 10.1 Tablet ....(it runs Navionics well) and I assume a phone (with GPS). Once the Anchor is set the app provides GPS accuracy in meters and the radius can be set also in meters. If the boat wanders outside the max radius an alarm sounds.
[Liz] We haven't done this, but it's on the list. I just need to make a repair first, or we need to buy a new one! Thanks for commenting. Peace and fair winds!
That will be great if you do it. Our boat came with one, and while I have a general idea how to set it up, not all the hardware is there for it, so I'd like to see somone's working setup before I go out and start buying hardware.
+3toSea [Liz] Jamie learned how to do it from a rigging book when we tried to set it up the first time... It's easy to manage, and usually used in light winds, so have a play. No idea when ours will be up and running again. Try Google?
Hi just found this video. Anchorages where I sail are very crowded and would appreciate your comments on what is acceptable under these conditions. Also if you go in to an anchorage and the boats at anchor are pointing in all different directions how do you ascertain where their anchors are so not to cross them when you drop your hook?
Hi Kids! Question regarding anchor swivels if I may. Watched your "HOW TO ANCHOR A SAILBOAT - TIPS & ADVICE - Q&A 20" video and read Vyv Cox's website notes on the subject. My question is... since you've anchored at least once or twice around the world, what swivel & configuration do you use and feel secure with on Esper? Are you using a Kong with a few links of chain between it and the anchor, or some other setup? Thx
Hi friends, thank's for everything...we have a C&C 41' and are about to buy a Rocna 33 lbs. 15 kg. but we are wondering if it's enough, or would be better a 20 Kg.? Thanks :)
Any specific tips for anchoring in the Adriatic, especially Croatia where sand shallow bays are rare with > 6 meters depths up to cliff, shore and also lines to shore pros and cons
[Liz] That's it exactly, trying to keep a balance by showing how it is and encouraging people that it's not rocket science! Thanks for commenting. Peace and fair winds!
A simple, inexpensive tool for monitoring motion is a simple accelerometer app that gives one visual numbers to go by in an x,y,z coordinate system thst measures rste of change.
You say anchoring is so contentious, does the captain of a larger boat (60 Ft +) have to speak to the crew before going to sea to tell just how he expects anchorage to proceed?
No. Partly because we tend not to stay at anchor in one place for too long but mainly because of emergencies. We like to know we can raise the anchor quickly if we need to. That said, we should spend a bit of time experimenting with different techniques.
I used to use a tripping buoy until some idiot thought it was a mooring buoy and started pulling up my anchor. I haven't used one since and thankfully never lost an anchor.
What about anchor weights, obviously the bigger the boat the bigger the anchor. Totally different to your requirements but I’ve still not bought one for my Narrowboat and being on the a River wouldn’t mind one for if the engine ever conked out!
+Sam Tait [Liz] Anchor manufacturers have guidelines about which weights to use. They're based on size of boat. With a narrowboat you don't have to worry about waves, fetch and tides, so the main concern will be to make sure it's dug in and will not drag. Peace and fair winds!
[Liz] We have an alarm on the chart plotter, but we rarely use it. Instead we put "track on" in the Navionics app on our phone. If the weather's bad we wake up anyway, and it's easier to just grab your phone and do a quick check (don't have to get out of bed!). If the weather's really bad, or if it looks like the track is moving, we'll take anchor watch in the cockpit. Thanks for asking the question. Peace and fair winds!
The App Anchor Lite can be downloaded FREE from play store and works well on a Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 SM-T535 10.1 Tablet ....(it runs Navionics well) and I assume a phone (with GPS). Once the Anchor is set the app provides GPS accuracy in meters and the radius can be set also in meters. If the boat wanders outside the max radius an alarm sounds. Runs on phone or tablet...PAFW
Spot on Jamie, now, how about anchoring when you have run from bad weather and need to anchor urgently, in a location you are not sure of, or the engine died/wont start... A typical foopa situation....
Try it you will like it ..lol .Please say hi to Nick et al if he is still managing Yacht Haven. You can tell him Lek and I are are married and living on our 30 acre rubber farm in Trang province for the last 12 years..😁
Sailing followtheboat I returned to YH on 27dec 2004 a very distorted CQR and a bilge full of Phuket sand..the welcome was something I will always remember..😀
Often around the Med the anchorages are very crowded and you have no choice but to anchor close to other boats. The real tricky bit is if there is no wind and the boats are pointing in all different directions and you cant see the bottom what do you do so not to place your anchor and chain over someone else?
Yes, we've seen that in Turkey and Greece. We often deployed the "Med mooring" technique of dropping anchor and taking a line to shore from the stern - you can get a lot of boats in that way! If it's not too deep, we just anchor out further, or move on to the next place if the anchorage is full. It's first come, first served. We've never dropped our anchor over someone else's. Cheers! Liz
Good morning, great video, but I have one question about anchoring I cant seem to find an answer about from anyone. I live on the west coast of Canada, Vic BC. have anchored my pleasure/ fishing boat hundreds of times for halibut fishing and such. 24ft grady white. measures 30 ft LOA , I want to make the leap to a sail boat, most likely a Cat as I have some balance issues now. Question is, for anchoring here, we attach the chain to the opposite end of the anchor out here for safety , put a swivel or just a shackle to the plow end of the anchor, let the chain sit but Tight along the body to the end you hook up to on your set up, but we use a 100Lb nylon zap strap to connect to it, so it will snap if needed. the reason is we have so many rocks here almost no sand and when the anchor inevitably gets hooked under some shelf or rock structure, its not possible to pull it up and most people new to halibut fishing have to cut away their whole system to break free or have torn the cleats off the boat from trying to force it . the way with the zap strap is so if your in a bad spot. that will snap and the anchor will get pulled up from the shovel end and you are only out a zap strap . I should add that most dont have a windless, we use a stainless ring and a scotsman ( large float) to pull the anchor up. takes about 5 min and pretty easy if you have experience . hope i havent talked to much, just curious what your thought are about how we set up the anchor attachment points as we are often in 100+ ft of COLD water, no one is diving down to release it. Have you any info about why no one on sail boats seem to use this style of set up? I would imagine that there must be alot of sailors who get anchors caught under some shelf. I know the windless is strong. but winching against the planet. Its a very heavy planet ;) any info would be appreciated
[Liz] Brilliant comment, and fascinating to read how you have overcome the anchoring on rock problem. I guess it all comes down to where you plan to anchor. We have caught the chain round rock before, and we have managed to free it by gently manouevring the boat and unwrapping the chain, but we try to avoid rock wherever possible. If you drop the anchor in rock, the only way it will work is to snag somewhere on the rock, which will usually lead to problems retrieving it, especially if you're somewhere tidal and the boat swings round in circles. I don't see any reason why you can't use the system you describe on a sailboat, seems fair enough to me. Thanks for sharing this here. Peace and fair winds!
Some actually do use this or similar methods depending on anchor location. There is a newer aussie couple channel that has mentioned this for example and have heard it mentioned by others before once in blue moon. The aussie couple (at least so far) have mostly used it while anchoring their dinghy, usually closer in to shore and in more difficult anchoring spots than their sailboat. Although I am no sailer, going by what lil I have heard and guessed at. Most sailboats have found and mostly use good anchoring spots and avoiding having to use or resort to such methods. Apparently if it is rocky bottom, most just find another anchor location somewhere else, as are plenty of other locations to go too. Why try to anchor in rocky bottom location, when usually one can find good anchor spot marked out in guide books etc 5 nm away. Sailboats (unlike you while fishing) typically are not anchoring further out in such deep water either, they are wanting to anchor closer to land.
I do enjoy your videos but will have to disagree with you regarding CQR anchors (real ones not clones) i have had wonderfull holding in my local bottom condition including setting and holding in 45 knots of wind with no issues the biggest problem with cqrs is due to using a clone anchor or not setting properly in the appropriate bottom i use my lead line to pull a sample from the bottom after setting to see what i have for hold and use kellets and scope with 2x the boat length in 2 sizes up chain and the rest in 3 strand twisted nylon for the energy absorbtion i have used scope up to 10:1 in strong wind and as low as 5:1 in light conditions or short stops
[Liz] Oh no, not getting dragged into which is the better anchor debate! I agree that clones are seldom as good as the real deal. Sounds like you have a very solid anchoring system going. Thanks for sharing it here. I agree that a large part of anchoring properly is getting the technique right. It's easy to think "hey, I've got a good anchor, now I don't have to worry any more..." but unless you know what you're doing, it doesn't matter which anchor you use. Have you used any of the newer generation anchors? We made the switch from our real CQR to a Rocna, and never looked back. Peace and fair winds!
If you can't attach a hook to chain and maintain that connection for years through maintenance & replacement of worn oxidized parts you should not be in charge of that vessel.
I think you left out a last step... always belay the anchor rode/snubber to a massive bow cleat or proper Samson Post to take the strain off the windlass; otherwise the tension and constant tugging will cause the gypsy to fail. Great advice otherwise... and I agree that the new generation of anchors (Rocna, Mantus, Spade, etc.) are far superior to the old standards like CQR, Bruce, Fortress, et al. I have a big old CQR that has got me through some nasty blows but you have to have just the right bottom otherwise it will do what plows do and plow... leaving perfect little furrows to plant potatoes or some such. They are also not good at reseting when the wind/waves/tides change direction. I've had the opportunity lately to try some of the newer anchors in big conditions and the difference is readily apparent. I ALWAYS try to swim over my anchors on a daily basis and it's been educational to say the least... :-)
[Liz] Not sure if you missed it? We put a link in the footage,and in the description, about how to tie a rolling hitch for you snubber, in which we show it looping back through a fairlead and tied to a cleat. You'll also see it clearly going through the fairlead in Jamie's drone footage... I agree that it's an absolute necessity NOT to bring the snubber back through the bow roller, which defeats the whole purpose of taking some strain off it and windlass! Yes, when the water's warm it's a pleasure to swim over the chain and anchor! Thanks for commenting. Peace and fair winds! PS. Love our Rocna :)
Throwing in my cat among the pigeons: Anchoring First of all, cruisers should be aware that most anchor companies create sizing charts for boats that will never see winds in excess of 30 knots. Cruisers could easily see winds that are well beyond that limit so you should at least go up one size in your anchor selection. Those charts are for the weekend boater, you will be anchored in a storm. I go up two sizes. Next fun fact, the pressure the wind exerts on your boat increases by the square when the velocity of the wind doubles. Or, put simply; if the wind pushes 10 lbs against your boat at 10 knots, it will push 100 lbs against your boat at 20 knots and 1000 lbs against your boat at 40 knots. No kidding. Once when anchored in 35 knots of wind. I stepped outside my bow rail and bounced up and down on my anchor rode. Drum tight. The idea of pulling that in with my hands was absurd. Even the windlass couldn't budge it (average windlass pulls 550 lbs). According to the charts, my boat pulls 900 lbs against the rode in 30 knots of wind. Now, look at that puny 35 lb anchor for your 45 foot boat! No way. 55-60 lbs is proper (mine is a 72 lb Rocna). And 45 lbs is proper for the boats in the 30-40 foot range. Don't believe me? Make sure you have Sea Tow and don't sleep too soundly. Oh, and please stop anchoring upwind of me. I don't have to be up in the middle of the night in a driving rain. I'm anchored properly. Next. An all chain rode is best for a cruiser. Lots of reasons. 1) Weight gets added to the anchoring system (weight is good). 2) Chain creates a catenary that helps pull on the anchor horizontally (the way it's supposed to). 3) Chain will not chafe through on sharp underwater things (sucks to lose your expensive anchor). 4) Chain runs through a windlass all by itself nicely and locks temporarily wherever you stop it. 5) You can hook multiple snubbers to a chain easily (not so with rope rode) 6) Chain is harder to steal (its just so heavy, noisy, and harder to cut) How to set an anchor 101. 1) Look at the anchorage on a chart, check the expected depths. 2) Then, don't trust the chart, look at it yourself in person. All charts are notoriously incorrect when you get into shallow water. 3) Very, very slowly cruise through the anchorage looking for underwater obstacles and checking depths. Did I mention "Go slowly" 4) You should already be aware of the state and tide and its range. You will set your anchors for proper scope at high tide and not be aground at low tide. 5) Note any current and wind to help with anchoring. 6) Cruise slowly all through your chosen anchor spot and swing area and note anything necessary (depths, rocks, sea bottom, type, neighbors, etc) Get all the info you can. Use the proper anchor for the bottom type. Nowadays a Rocna or "scoop" type is best. 7) Be aware of other boats and determine where their anchors are (ask them if necessary). 8) Get your anchor ready to deploy (hanging down, not touching water). 9) Move slowly into the wind/current over your anchor drop point. Go upwind past it as much as you expect your anchor to drag while setting. 10) Come to a complete stop and center the rudder. 11) Walk up to the bow and as soon as you start drifting backwards, lower (not drop) your anchor until it touches bottom. 12) As the boat drifts back pay out rode to first lay the anchor down, and then lay the rode down in a nice straight line as the boat continues to drift back. Dropping extra rode now could foul the anchor. Don't put any tension on the rode yet, but don't drop extra chain to wad it up in a ball on the bottom and or foul the anchor either. 13) Pay out a little more rode than you need then snub it off (don't use the gypsy to stop boat if possible). Allow the rode to tighten and stop the boat. If the boat falls off at an angle (probably), that's OK. The bow always falls off when pushed by the wind. Put your foot on the snubber to feel for any dragging. Be sure it is set. 14) Personal preference. You may now want to back down on the rode to set it firmly. Some people prefer to allow the anchor time to sink into the mud a while before doing this and only set the anchor later (hour or so). Some people back down hard with the engine to be sure they have a good set. Some people use the boats momentum drifting backwards to set the anchor. In any case, sure it is set before sleeping or leaving the boat. 15) Now take up any extra rode so that you have: 5/1 for a lunch set. daytime, settled weather, never leaving the boat. 7/1 for calm conditions overnight and you will not leave the boat. 10/1 for all other times (storm imminent, leaving the boat for the day, sleeping overnight (always a possible nightime thunderstorm in the tropics)). 16) Now set the snubber to allow stretch for waves and wakes. Ten to twelve feet is enough with a properly sized snubber. Most are way too thick. It's supposed to stretch like a rubber band when shock loaded. Pay out enough anchor rode to allow only the snubber to take shock loads.
Thanks for your points. 1. As Jamie says, we have a 33 *kilo* anchor 2. We've held fast in 80kts. It's not the wind, but the *waves* which will get you. 3. Hope you wouldn't be daft enough to try to pull up a taught line without motoring on to it? I could go on, but I can't be bothered. Liz.
Hi Liz, great site. Lots of good info and very well done videos. Keep up the good work. What does "pull up a taught line..." mean? I use a 33 kilo Rocna as well. Gotta love a properly sized anchor.
![Boat ANCHORS 101: How to Choose [Capable Cruising Guides]](/img/1.gif)
Hello guys.... sorry i left you for a couple of weeks... I recently changed my contract at work into a part time, so I had to do some financial reorganizing, but I re-became one of your patrons again... your work is simply too good not to be thankful for .... let us know the moment you want us to support you directly and other than via patreon..ok? Hugs to both!!!
[Liz] Yes, I just saw you're back in the Patreon crew, THANK YOU! So with all that free time, I guess you'll be doing lots of...sailing?! I'll certainly let you know as soon as we're up and running with the new initiative. It's all very exciting.
Thanks so much for commenting.
Peace and the fairest of winds to you in the new year, Alex!
It’s frightening just how much more in-depth a 16 min video is on the subject of anchoring than an entire day skippers course!!!
That’s for this, we’re planning our first ever anchorage for tomorrow 👌⛵️
GOOD LUCK!!! Liz
Hahaha...your opening was HILARIOUS! and correct. For whatever reason, armchair cruisers LOVE to argue about anchoring!
But here's the thing:
Most of these blowhards never anchor out. I do, and have for years. The type of anchor and ground tackle you use is important, but not nearly as important as the good seamanship neccessary to properly maintain, deploy, set, and retrieve said ground tackle.
...and if you are anchored anywhere the least bit sketchy in terms of wind and waves, you damn well better be prepared to weigh that anchor and get the hell out of there before you drag - regardless of what brand of anchor is set. Around here, everything is an open ocean roadstead and a potential lee shore with big waves. I have a rule - once the anchorage starts white-capping, waves are bigger than a foot, and the wind is onshore, I put out to sea.
Everyone should, because once it's blowing 30 or 40 knots and the waves are 10 feet, you are not gonna be able to retrieve that anchor - the best you can do is to buoy and slip it, and pray your able to sail out of trouble, because your motor isn't gonna save you.
Best primary anchor depends on where you sail, and no single design is good for everywhere, but a Delta or scoop type are generally best at both reliable setting and holding power. Danforths are great storm anchors, as long as you get them properly set, but will not reliably re-set when the wind shifts.
Ideally the fist 150 feet of your rode should be chain, and the rest nylon....and size your primary anchor one or two sizes larger than the manufacturer reccomends.
No one has ever dragged because their anchor was too big, or because they put out too much chain, lol....
Excellent good video about anchoring!
Thanks a lot from Roald (68) from Norway who just bought an old Wauquiez Gladiateur 33 (1980) with a 15 KG Bruce anchor
Good choice of boat, Roald!
Great video as always. When somebody starts to set up anchor too close I have been known to step out in the cockpit naked to give them a overly friendly wave. Nobody wants to anchor next to the big heavily tattooed crazy naked man. Thankfully it hasn't lead to any arrests yet. :)
@hmg99 - very true. lol
Ahoy, spot on, the anchor is the most important part of a cruising yacht, and how you use it. Wonderful presentation! Thanks from Surfmachine.
Cheers!
Great vid thanks for the info . Love your guys channel almost got the wife convinced to buy a boat thanks to you guys. Peace and be safe out there.
+Coop W [Liz] Glad you liked it.👌Ooh, really hope your wife gives it a try. Watch out for "How to be a Liveaboard", you'll both find it interesting, it's coming out over Christmas. Peace and fair winds!
"Throw a cat among the pigeons"... What an awesome expression!
Aaron Arnett [Liz] It's an English expression, been around a long time! 😀 Is it new to you?
Sailing followtheboat I don't hear it in American English. Seems like a fun & mildly chaotic combination of 'Put in my 2 cents' and 'Stir the pot'. :-)
yes.. its a similar expression. Unlike 'not enough room to swing a cat' which relates to the cat o nine tales used on ships as a form of punishment. It is to actually throw a cat into a flock of pigeons.. which will cause chaos..
Yes great advice Jamie and very well presented. First time I anchored I used a grapple and just picked it up and through it over the front of my 15 foot Dory and waited till the chain stopped paying out, feeling pleased with myself, sat back to enjoy a beer thinking well that was easy. It was about an hour later when I noticed the land had come very close. checked anchor and discovered it was no longer on the bottom but swinging like a pendulum about 10 feet below the bow, Oops.
+Gogs [Liz] Haha! Thanks for sharing your story here. 😀🙏
Really good advice. I started off my cruising in an area with very large tidal ranges (Bristol Channel - 10+ meters). So I also worry about the varying depth of water. 5 metres can become 'high and dry' quite quickly if you are not careful. I tend to anchor pretty much on a contour line if possible. Then, after anchoring I work out what the theoretical depth should be based on rise of tide etc. I then check this with the depth sounder (and usually a lead line as well - I know that's going one too far). If the reality agrees with the theory, then I can sleep soundly (I also have a Rocna) knowing I will have enough water under the keel for my stay, and have also calculated the scope correctly for maximum depth...until someone anchors right next to me. My pet hate too.
+Just about sailing [Liz] You can never go too far when it comes to anchoring safely, sounds to me like you take all the right precautions. 👍
Yes, having a Rocna helps us sleep soundly too. And twits right next to us get a full blast of techno from our sound system to rock them to sleep, haha!
Great information. Anchoring is one of the weaker spots in our overall experience curve, since we do it so rarely here.
Last year we upgraded to a new 45lb Mantus and because it was a boat show they gave us a great package deal on a full package -everything but the windlass and chain, which we already had. In retrospect we should have gone to the 55lb anchor instead and may still do that, mounting the 45lb on the stern rail as a spare/stern anchor.
In addition to the anchor and matching Mantus bow roller we got their Mantus chain swivel and a dual-bridle snubber with their own special locking chain hook that looks pretty slick. We've never actually used the snubber yet since we have not had a chance to over-night. When we anchor here in Chicagoland it is always a "lunch hook" and is always in great weather so we have simply left the chain on the bow roller. I've used snubbers before when cruising in the gulf and the keys though. I don't think I'd be comfortable sleeping without a snubber but I notice a lot of folks do leave the chain right on their windlass long-term. Shock loads...
[Liz] I looked at the Mantus bridle set-up, and agree that it looks pretty slick. Now that we've switched to a pure line snubber with rolling hitch, though, I can't see us going back to any other way. Not using a snubber is crazy, the stress on the bow roller would severely damage it in any kind of swell. Thanks for sharing! Peace and fair winds!
Really useful, clear and straightforward.
+james caslake [Liz] Thank you! We hoped it would be a useful tool to refer to. Peace and fair winds!
Grat instructions!
Great Great GREAT INFORMATION! Well described. We are going on our first sailing season next summer and hopefully many anchor spots. I will definitely have that video in mind and see it several times again. THANKS! and as always .... big thumbs from here. (We Got the Rocna)
[Liz] Yay, love our Rocna! Yes, do refer to Jamie's vid, it's packed with good information. Peace and fair winds!
nicely done, great explanations on the why, when and how!
Thank you very much for this clear video, Jamie! We just did our first real anchorage and it's good to get some info from people like you, who have a lot of experience and knowledge.
Happy greetingz, Wim
Thx for all these anchoring tips Jamie
[Liz] And thank you for taking the time to comment!
I do my research here ... Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us.
+BushLizard2 [Liz] Great, glad you found it useful. Peace and fair winds!
Excellent advice.
Fantastic video, thanks so much for your advice!
No No, Jamie Sits, You do the hard bits, i did much the same 30 years ago.!! Im glad its over, too old now.Happy to sir ashore n watch these days.
[Liz] Maybe I'm more visible because I'm the one up the front when we weigh or drop anchor, but Jamie does most of the running around on deck when we're underway! I'd say we do 50:50 of the muscle work - it's good for both of us! Hope we keep you entertained. Peace and fair winds!
That is a video of value. Thanks!
+srm 666 [Liz] So pleased you found it useful. Thanks for commenting. 👌
Jamie, have ever thought of making a career of teaching. I love the way you deliver the info because you are convincing and seem as though you master the skills you talk about. ..that makes a huge difference on the recieving end! Very informative ...even more so for a cruiser wannabe like me! 🎅🏼🇨🇦 BTW happy holidays to you and Liz!
+André Boudreau [Liz] So pleased you think we know what we're talking about 🤣! All we try to do is pass on our own experiences, and we don't pretend to know it all by any means. Hope the plans are coming along well for your liveaboard life, sounds exciting. We have our updated "How to be a liveaboard" coming out in a couple of weeks, which you may find interesting. Thanks for the lovely comment. Wishing you peace and fair winds in the new year.
Jamie, thank you very much for this great piece of advice. Having been on watch steaming against the anchor to prevent dragging this is a subject I am very interested in. Great information and I appreciate the time you have spent to make this video. TomS
[Liz] Too right! We still sit in the cockpit in severe swells/storms...you never know what might be coming towards you. 😬 Thanks for commenting. Peace and fair winds!
Fantastic video well done
+The crazy man from Ireland. [Liz] Glad you enjoyed it! 🙏
Very handy video! Thank you!
[Liz] Glad you found it useful! Thanks for taking the trouble to let us know. Peace and fair winds!
Great Video Guys !!! Very informative.
+nacra60na [Liz] Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for commenting!
Hi Liz and Jamie, thanks for making me feel like a superstar! And, for the fantastic vlog on anchoring, of course. My first call-out on social media...wow. Kind of like when you imagine your name in lights on Broadway...LOL. Well, not really, but it was fun to see my name and request. ;-). Oh, and merci for nailing the pronunciation of my name-well done :-)
Your vlog confirmed three things for me. 1) Upgrade my ground tackle. My 25’ of chain and 200’ of 1/2” triple braid and my 15 kg delta almost never bits in and just don’t cut it. (I sail at 39’ foot 19,000 lb boat on Lake Ontario and still have the original boat dealer’s “sail away” package for anchoring. This honestly looks sufficient for the uninitiated, but it’s not even close, so time to get real cruising gear here.) 2) Snubbers don’t have to be complicated and extra gear is not always necessary. I was intrigued that you don’t use two snubbers to balance port and starboard and keep the boat straight into wind and current, but realize from your vlog that the slight side load will likely keep the boat from swaying back and forth at anchor. A second snubber maybe only if winds are over 25 knots (?). And, most of all 3) Slow it down and take my time. Seems like we’re always late to anchorages and in a hurry to get settled in. This just adds stress to captain and especially crew. A stressed captain makes for a very stressed crew and a stressed crew is never a good thing.
Love your channel and keep up the great vlogging.
+Yves Lemoine [Liz] I knew how to pronounce Yves because of Yves Montand! 😀
We're so pleased the video was of help.
Yes, it sounds like you need to upgrade your ground tackle, you won't regret it.
We don't use a second snubber unless conditions demand it, in which case we double up in case one of them snaps. From experience, I haven't noticed boats with two snubbers or a bridle swinging around any less - it's the wind, waves and currents which move the boat.
Cheers, superstar! 🙏 😀👌
Cheers Jamie, Great advice as always :)
+Simon Thomas [Liz] Glad you found it useful. Thanks for commenting. 🙏
Very informative! Great job
+Judd _S [Liz] Glad you found it useful. Thanks for commenting!
A great lessons learned video
[Liz] Glad you found it interesting. Peace and fair winds!
Cool stuff !!!
I liked this very informative video and your clear explanations, I have subscibed.
Great info! Thanks!
Hope it was useful! 👌👍Liz
Hello.I use to put the snubber first and afterwards going astern.In this way I guess that my windless is more protected.I would like to listen your opinion on this.
Thanks
Elias Arkoulis
Think you mentioned you used a Rocna Delta anchor ? could you explain the weight of your anchor used on the 42 foot sail boat ? love all of your video's
Well done!
[Liz] Cheers!
Very well described Jamie 👌🏼
[Liz] Thanks for taking the time to comment. Peace and fair winds for 2018!
Anchor may be a top choice for sure, but surely it holds equal weight to the following (situation dependent of course): Bilge pump, secondary bilge pump, life jacket, distress beacon, etc.
Great informative video! Thanks for putting this together.
+Sailing ShaggySeas [Liz] Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for commenting!
Hi, Jamie. I'm a new sailor. At about 6:20 you used the term "fetch". I googled it and got a few different definitions. Please define the term for me. Thanks. Yours is, hands down, the most informative channel, as I already know how to party.
[Liz] In a nutshell, the fetch is the build up of unobstructed wind and waves across an expanse of water (an ocean/sea/lake/etc). It can be intense and high, which is why you look for an anchorage that provides a barrier to the fetch slipping directly into the bay/harbour where you have dropped the hook. Hope that helps! Peace and fair winds.
We call it swell but might be different in other parts of the world.
Andre in Sydney, Australia
Yea normally use swell too, even while in USN. But have heard fetch used here n there as well.
Thank you for the informative video. We recently upgraded our old plough anchor after being hit with a couple of storms and dragging. We were on watch with our engines running so we didn't come to grief. But in one instance two boats ended up on the beach and in another a boat dragged onto another luckily the other was on watch and his anchor held them both. Do you keep a watch in heavy weather and do you start your engine? We are relatively inexperienced and got different advice about running engines. The new anchor we got is a sarca, similar design to the rocna, but much cheaper here in Australia where it is made. First time we dropped her in the water she set so quickly we nearly got whiplash. It was awesome no stuffing around for an hour to get the plough set.
[Liz] Why wouldn't you keep your engines running in bad conditions, I don't understand why anyone would tell you that's a bad idea. We do! We might have 100% faith in our ground tackle and anchoring technique, but what about the guy next to us, or the boat behind? Even a good anchor will twist and drag then re-set itself in some conditions. But supposing you've hooked someone else's anchor, or they've caught your chain? If you weren't on anchor watch you wouldn't know what was happening. All kinds of snarl ups can occur when the waves start pounding and the wind is howling in a busy anchorage.
The only question is when to make the call to take anchor watch. Only you'll know when it feels right to you. If you're not happy, then make some coffee and get in the cockpit. If it's a packed anchorage we always go on anchor watch if conditions deteriorate, also if we're close to rocks/reefs/land.
Being over cautious is the right attitude. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.
Sounds like you had the same experience that we had when we got our Rocna! We're so pleased we upgraded from the old CQR.
Peace and fair winds!
Yes, Thank you for the great advice! Ground tackle sorted here but not sure proper style bow roller for Rocna 15Kg we're about to buy. 35' boat, 12,000lbs. Should be enough. Thanks for sharing your tips.. SV DIJAN
[Liz] So glad you thing it was great advice, good to know! Thanks for taking the time to comment. Peace and fair winds!
Nice job Jamie, so good to hear the correct calculation for the rode amount , " water depth x scope required". Simple the same the world over........
Oohps unless you are from America! The CG seamanship manual says what you said BUT it also says add the bowroller ht to the depth then multiply by scope!
What a C*ck up! Then other guides just follow along like lemmings!
Not a huge problem in deep water but in shallow water with a high bow like a power boat you could have double the rode out! That will be a big mess when the tidal current changes in a busy anchorage.
Cheers Warren
Thanks, Warren. Yes, busy anchorages are to be approached with caution, but with enough room it's not uncommon for us to put out 5x scope.
Sailing followtheboat Thanks Jamie, if anybody was wondering what I was getting at here is an example
Basically you want all boats in an anchorage to be using similiar scope, so in 10' of water at 3:1 you use 3x10=30' total.
BUT using the Incorrect system where you add the bow roller hieght to the water depth before multiplying by scope ratio ,with say power boat with a 10' bow roller height at 3:1(10'+10')x3= 60'total.
Double the real scope required and pandermonium in the anchorage when the tide changes.
In the UK and USA east coast there can be some crowed anchorages one boat with 30' rode and one with 60' is not a good situation?
Enjoy your almost deserted anchorages!
Cheers Warren.
A1, Amie! thanks ;-)
+Prof. M. Otto Zeee JCD ECS [Liz] Glad you liked it!
Great job 👍 thanks!
[Liz] So pleased you found it useful. Thanks for leaving a comment! 👍👌
Thank you is regards to anchoring to close to other boats. What is the best way to Guage your distance? Happy Easter
It's really about taking into account prevailing winds. If a boat anchors in front of you and the wind picks up, is there enough room for him to drag without endangering your boat? You'd be surprised how many sailors have no concept of this.
Hi Liz and Jamie, I'm wondering why you are not using a "Catanary Weight", I'm not sure if this is the correct term (we call it in German language "Reitgewicht"). I helps to keep the anchor chain parallel to the ground, prevents cherking of the chain and reduces the swinging radius of the yacht which is very welcome in tight anchorages. Lots of good hints in your video, keep the good work up. Thank you.
Hi Werner. Yes, someone mentioned this on a previous video. We should practice this tecnique. Sometimes, however, we like to keep it simple so we can get out quickly in an emergency. Thanks for the comment 👍
Very well explained and comprehensive for planning and executing an intended anchor situation. The investment in good, heavy and reliable ground tackle will really come into its own when used in extremis - engine failure and been driven onto lee shore - it could save your boat and your lives. As a matter of interest do you ever use a ‘bit of mizzen’ to calm the weather cocking?
+Norman Boyes Yes, we do! And we use it often, one of the advantages of a ketch rig. 😀
Thanks for the nice comment, we hope that this video will act as a starting point for newbies. Peace and fair winds!
You guys have a new sub. I like the way you tell things, like they are.
I'll be joining Britican in a couple of weeks, don't know if you know them though.
[Liz] Thanks so much for being our latest sub! I know of Britican, but we have never met. Hope you have a great time aboard. Peace and fair winds!
Nice of Liz to explain how an Anchor works, You just sit n watch 95% of the time.!!...
[Liz] Weird comment... can't work out if you're saying Jamie sits and watches or I sit and watch.
Whatever you're trying to express here, it couldn't be more wrong. If you think I sit and watch, then you haven't seen our videos. If you think Jamie sits and watches, you're not aware of a skipper's responsibilities and won't have seen all the solo sailing he does.
But, hey, thanks for taking the time to comment. 👌
VERRY GOOD LESSON.
+Web Browne [Liz] Glad you thought so!
OK I might get some stick for this but here goes...
My chain is 10mm calibrated, my anchor is a 1970 35lb CQR which I have 100% confidence in after surviving being anchored on a lee-shore in 65 knots of wind when Maria passed 40 miles North of me.
She was a cat5 so about 185 knots when she hit Dominica.
I do have two other anchors, a 15kg Danforth which I keep as a kedge anchor in case I ever run aground, but touch wood never happened yet, and a 5kg umbrella anchor for a zodiac.
By the time the wind had hit 70 knots it was from the South ( before people say never anchor off a Lee-shore)
In all my years of anchoring I have never dragged although I did foul my anchor on some garbage once,
The CQR's come with a lifetime guarantee, for a very good reason, they're indestructible, and I'm of the opinion if it ain't broke don't fix it. As for snubber knots I use a constrictor knot, but they can be a bitch to untie when the rope is wet.
What a gorgeous opening shot! that water!!!! great piece on anchoring -thanks!
You do give me a chuckle I love your no nonsense, down to earth humour. i consider getting a face full of your back end a justifiable punishment for nosey neighbours!
ohhhhh i just found this blog .. i think i seen yall before on soSAILize . Keep up the good work :)
Well there has been a lot of water under the boat since this video was done and I just have to put my advice in. 35,00 miles at sea, 95% anchored out. Mantis makes a much more secure chain grabber than the hook, so check it out. You never talked about anchors but modern boats need modern higher holding anchors. Check out SV Panope for the best anchors. The old CQR or Bruce just don't cut it anymore.
A lot is said about the anchor and scope but nobody talks about the size and weight of chain. Just because it says high test doesn't mean it will keep you set, a 40 foot sailboat needs 3/8 chain. Yes, that's right. The heavier chain will exert a lot of friction on the bottom which will keep you in place. The pull must be along the seabed or your anchor will just pull out.
0:50 Just love your pronunciation of his name, perfectly said lol
Now this is a great video! Thank you very much for this great information!!
[Liz] Cheers, so glad you found it informative. Peace and fair winds!
Sound advice.
Sound advice ......I can recommend the App Anchor Watch / Alarm on a tablet with GPS gave me a good nights sleep.
+Brian Evolved [Liz] Thanks for sharing here. 🙏 We use the Navionics app set to "track on", but no alarm. When conditions kick up Jamie's wide awake! Peace and fair winds!
I forgot to say the App Anchor Lite can be downloaded FREE from play store and works well on a Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 SM-T535 10.1 Tablet ....(it runs Navionics well) and I assume a phone (with GPS). Once the Anchor is set the app provides GPS accuracy in meters and the radius can be set also in meters. If the boat wanders outside the max radius an alarm sounds. . When I used it I heard the anchor dragging at seven in the morning and ten seconds later the alarm went off. Most most useful. Love what you guys are doing with your lives. PAFW to you both as well. Brian ..still in London.
Sailing followtheboat I do this by dropping a pin with tracking on - but I wish they would add an alarm that you could set at x metres of the pin departure.
[Liz] Yep, that's what we do with the Navionics app. We don't use the B&G anchor alarm, because we're always wide awake (well, Jamie is) as soon as the wind picks up, or Esper starts making the wrong noises. It's also another way to use up valuable battery juice overnight.
I like the sound of Brian Evolved's app, though, might be useful if you're exhausted and less likely to wake up...
Sailing followtheboat and if my magic La VAG has just posted this anchoring experience ruclips.net/video/73p9RTwoMas/видео.html
Picked up your recommended book (Cruiser's Handbook of Fishing). Lots of great info there! BTW, what do you use for an anchor drag alarm?
+Al Smitherman [Liz] It's a brilliant book, I hope you enjoy it! We have an alarm on our chartplotter, but don't often use it. We both use "track on" in our Navionics app on our phones. Thanks for commenting. 👌
the App Anchor Lite can be downloaded FREE from play store and works well on a Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 SM-T535 10.1 Tablet ....(it runs Navionics well) and I assume a phone (with GPS). Once the Anchor is set the app provides GPS accuracy in meters and the radius can be set also in meters. If the boat wanders outside the max radius an alarm sounds.
Many thx very interesting.
I did nit quite get which anchor you recommending?
Great talk! Is there an episode where you show how you rig your mizzen staysail?
[Liz] We haven't done this, but it's on the list. I just need to make a repair first, or we need to buy a new one! Thanks for commenting. Peace and fair winds!
That will be great if you do it. Our boat came with one, and while I have a general idea how to set it up, not all the hardware is there for it, so I'd like to see somone's working setup before I go out and start buying hardware.
+3toSea [Liz] Jamie learned how to do it from a rigging book when we tried to set it up the first time... It's easy to manage, and usually used in light winds, so have a play. No idea when ours will be up and running again. Try Google?
Hi just found this video. Anchorages where I sail are very crowded and would appreciate your comments on what is acceptable under these conditions. Also if you go in to an anchorage and the boats at anchor are pointing in all different directions how do you ascertain where their anchors are so not to cross them when you drop your hook?
What a great video, thanks Jamie. I am struggling to find the Anchor Lite app you mention.
Can anyone help guide me?
Hi Kids! Question regarding anchor swivels if I may. Watched your "HOW TO ANCHOR A SAILBOAT - TIPS & ADVICE - Q&A 20" video and read Vyv Cox's website notes on the subject. My question is... since you've anchored at least once or twice around the world, what swivel & configuration do you use and feel secure with on Esper? Are you using a Kong with a few links of chain between it and the anchor, or some other setup? Thx
Hi friends, thank's for everything...we have a C&C 41' and are about to buy a Rocna 33 lbs. 15 kg. but we are wondering if it's enough, or would be better a 20 Kg.? Thanks :)
Generally, the bigger the better. If you can fit bigger and the windlass can handle it, go up a size.
Any specific tips for anchoring in the Adriatic, especially Croatia where sand shallow bays are rare with > 6 meters depths up to cliff, shore and also lines to shore pros and cons
You never mentioned how to retrieve your anchor. Great videos by the way. Thanks.
thanks mate!
[Liz] You're welcome!
Keeping it Real...Cheers
[Liz] That's it exactly, trying to keep a balance by showing how it is and encouraging people that it's not rocket science! Thanks for commenting. Peace and fair winds!
Hello,
I wander, if using a v-shape bridle instead of a single-line snubber would reduce the tendency to swing when anchoring in windy conditions?
Great input.. Cheers! But more importantly what do you recommend to be the best vape mod and tank?? lol But seriously?
Haha! I rock the Smoant mods. The Battlestar is still hard to beat. Liz uses an Aegis cos she's clumsy 😉 As for tanks, there is only one: Reload 👌😎
Now rockn a Cylon Smoant! Thanx alot, sorry to get off the subject but iam glad i did! Cheers legends
mate what is the blue dial behind you ?awesome imagery as always , great lesson thanks
[Liz] You got it! We use it quite a lot. 👌
[Liz] SoloSail Boat got it in one!
No link to the rolling Hitch?
A simple, inexpensive tool for monitoring motion is a simple accelerometer app that gives one visual numbers to go by in an x,y,z coordinate system thst measures rste of change.
You say anchoring is so contentious, does the captain of a larger boat (60 Ft +) have to speak to the crew before going to sea to tell just how he expects anchorage to proceed?
Do you carry a BIG fisherman(aka: yachtsman)? Do you ever use the Bahamian method (aka: 2 anchors@ 180 deg. w/ a swivel ?
No. Partly because we tend not to stay at anchor in one place for too long but mainly because of emergencies. We like to know we can raise the anchor quickly if we need to. That said, we should spend a bit of time experimenting with different techniques.
After loosing an anchor after getting it caught on ground debris in Falmouth I now use a tripping buoy. Your thoughts?
+Salty Buster [Liz] We don't use one, but can see that it could be useful. Thanks for sharing.
I used to use a tripping buoy until some idiot thought it was a mooring buoy and started pulling up my anchor. I haven't used one since and thankfully never lost an anchor.
What about anchor weights, obviously the bigger the boat the bigger the anchor.
Totally different to your requirements but I’ve still not bought one for my Narrowboat and being on the a River wouldn’t mind one for if the engine ever conked out!
+Sam Tait [Liz] Anchor manufacturers have guidelines about which weights to use. They're based on size of boat. With a narrowboat you don't have to worry about waves, fetch and tides, so the main concern will be to make sure it's dug in and will not drag. Peace and fair winds!
Do you guys employ one of the alarms for dragging anchor? If so which one?
[Liz] We have an alarm on the chart plotter, but we rarely use it. Instead we put "track on" in the Navionics app on our phone. If the weather's bad we wake up anyway, and it's easier to just grab your phone and do a quick check (don't have to get out of bed!). If the weather's really bad, or if it looks like the track is moving, we'll take anchor watch in the cockpit. Thanks for asking the question. Peace and fair winds!
The App Anchor Lite can be downloaded FREE from play store and works well on a Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 SM-T535 10.1 Tablet ....(it runs Navionics well) and I assume a phone (with GPS). Once the Anchor is set the app provides GPS accuracy in meters and the radius can be set also in meters. If the boat wanders outside the max radius an alarm sounds. Runs on phone or tablet...PAFW
Spot on Jamie, now, how about anchoring when you have run from bad weather and need to anchor urgently, in a location you are not sure of, or the engine died/wont start... A typical foopa situation....
+daedster1 [Liz] Yeah, quite a common situation for cruisers! Pretty much all the same rules apply. 😉 Peace and fair winds!
Have always anchored going forward power or sail..once the anchor bites vessel spins around..easy ...
Yes, we have friends who use this method. Maybe we'll try it! Thanks for the interesting comment. ☺️ Liz
Try it you will like it ..lol
.Please say hi to Nick et al if he is still managing Yacht Haven. You can tell him Lek and I are are married and living on our 30 acre rubber farm in Trang province for the last 12 years..😁
Not planning to go back to YH, but if we bump into Nick will do!
Sailing followtheboat I returned to YH on 27dec 2004 a very distorted CQR and a bilge full of Phuket sand..the welcome was something I will always remember..😀
What anchor did you mention?
Often around the Med the anchorages are very crowded and you have no choice but to anchor close to other boats. The real tricky bit is if there is no wind and the boats are pointing in all different directions and you cant see the bottom what do you do so not to place your anchor and chain over someone else?
Yes, we've seen that in Turkey and Greece. We often deployed the "Med mooring" technique of dropping anchor and taking a line to shore from the stern - you can get a lot of boats in that way! If it's not too deep, we just anchor out further, or move on to the next place if the anchorage is full. It's first come, first served. We've never dropped our anchor over someone else's. Cheers! Liz
If you can see crew on board, there's also nothing wrong with asking someone where their anchor is to avoid any trouble!
Just curious how much chain do you carry on Esper?
Good morning, great video, but I have one question about anchoring I cant seem to find an answer about from anyone. I live on the west coast of Canada, Vic BC. have anchored my pleasure/ fishing boat hundreds of times for halibut fishing and such. 24ft grady white. measures 30 ft LOA , I want to make the leap to a sail boat, most likely a Cat as I have some balance issues now. Question is, for anchoring here, we attach the chain to the opposite end of the anchor out here for safety , put a swivel or just a shackle to the plow end of the anchor, let the chain sit but Tight along the body to the end you hook up to on your set up, but we use a 100Lb nylon zap strap to connect to it, so it will snap if needed. the reason is we have so many rocks here almost no sand and when the anchor inevitably gets hooked under some shelf or rock structure, its not possible to pull it up and most people new to halibut fishing have to cut away their whole system to break free or have torn the cleats off the boat from trying to force it . the way with the zap strap is so if your in a bad spot. that will snap and the anchor will get pulled up from the shovel end and you are only out a zap strap . I should add that most dont have a windless, we use a stainless ring and a scotsman ( large float) to pull the anchor up. takes about 5 min and pretty easy if you have experience . hope i havent talked to much, just curious what your thought are about how we set up the anchor attachment points as we are often in 100+ ft of COLD water, no one is diving down to release it. Have you any info about why no one on sail boats seem to use this style of set up? I would imagine that there must be alot of sailors who get anchors caught under some shelf. I know the windless is strong. but winching against the planet. Its a very heavy planet ;)
any info would be appreciated
[Liz] Brilliant comment, and fascinating to read how you have overcome the anchoring on rock problem.
I guess it all comes down to where you plan to anchor. We have caught the chain round rock before, and we have managed to free it by gently manouevring the boat and unwrapping the chain, but we try to avoid rock wherever possible. If you drop the anchor in rock, the only way it will work is to snag somewhere on the rock, which will usually lead to problems retrieving it, especially if you're somewhere tidal and the boat swings round in circles. I don't see any reason why you can't use the system you describe on a sailboat, seems fair enough to me.
Thanks for sharing this here. Peace and fair winds!
Some actually do use this or similar methods depending on anchor location. There is a newer aussie couple channel that has mentioned this for example and have heard it mentioned by others before once in blue moon. The aussie couple (at least so far) have mostly used it while anchoring their dinghy, usually closer in to shore and in more difficult anchoring spots than their sailboat. Although I am no sailer, going by what lil I have heard and guessed at. Most sailboats have found and mostly use good anchoring spots and avoiding having to use or resort to such methods. Apparently if it is rocky bottom, most just find another anchor location somewhere else, as are plenty of other locations to go too. Why try to anchor in rocky bottom location, when usually one can find good anchor spot marked out in guide books etc 5 nm away. Sailboats (unlike you while fishing) typically are not anchoring further out in such deep water either, they are wanting to anchor closer to land.
Thank you... repetita iuvant...
+yellowbenchmovie [Liz] Say again? 😉 Thanks for your comment!
yes, again and again... it's always useful.
Great advice....I love a good night sleep....S/V Teak Key
[Liz] Too right, we love sleep too! Thanks for your comment.
you are funny! Jamie
You should advise re the bitter end..should have a line which can be cut! A readily available buoy should you need to abandon your anchor
One of my pet peeves with La Vagabond they just pull up and grab the first spot they see. Then they complain and whine when things go South.
[Liz] I don't often catch La Vagabond, but it's sensible to take your time anchoring and to make sure it sets properly. Thanks for commenting!
I do enjoy your videos but will have to disagree with you regarding CQR anchors (real ones not clones) i have had wonderfull holding in my local bottom condition including setting and holding in 45 knots of wind with no issues the biggest problem with cqrs is due to using a clone anchor or not setting properly in the appropriate bottom i use my lead line to pull a sample from the bottom after setting to see what i have for hold and use kellets and scope with 2x the boat length in 2 sizes up chain and the rest in 3 strand twisted nylon for the energy absorbtion i have used scope up to 10:1 in strong wind and as low as 5:1 in light conditions or short stops
[Liz] Oh no, not getting dragged into which is the better anchor debate! I agree that clones are seldom as good as the real deal.
Sounds like you have a very solid anchoring system going. Thanks for sharing it here. I agree that a large part of anchoring properly is getting the technique right. It's easy to think "hey, I've got a good anchor, now I don't have to worry any more..." but unless you know what you're doing, it doesn't matter which anchor you use.
Have you used any of the newer generation anchors? We made the switch from our real CQR to a Rocna, and never looked back.
Peace and fair winds!
no, unfortunately on my pension a new anchor is low priority first to finish the boat restoration
If you can't attach a hook to chain and maintain that connection for years through maintenance & replacement of worn oxidized parts you should not be in charge of that vessel.
I think you left out a last step... always belay the anchor rode/snubber to a massive bow cleat or proper Samson Post to take the strain off the windlass; otherwise the tension and constant tugging will cause the gypsy to fail. Great advice otherwise... and I agree that the new generation of anchors (Rocna, Mantus, Spade, etc.) are far superior to the old standards like CQR, Bruce, Fortress, et al. I have a big old CQR that has got me through some nasty blows but you have to have just the right bottom otherwise it will do what plows do and plow... leaving perfect little furrows to plant potatoes or some such. They are also not good at reseting when the wind/waves/tides change direction. I've had the opportunity lately to try some of the newer anchors in big conditions and the difference is readily apparent. I ALWAYS try to swim over my anchors on a daily basis and it's been educational to say the least... :-)
[Liz] Not sure if you missed it? We put a link in the footage,and in the description, about how to tie a rolling hitch for you snubber, in which we show it looping back through a fairlead and tied to a cleat. You'll also see it clearly going through the fairlead in Jamie's drone footage...
I agree that it's an absolute necessity NOT to bring the snubber back through the bow roller, which defeats the whole purpose of taking some strain off it and windlass!
Yes, when the water's warm it's a pleasure to swim over the chain and anchor!
Thanks for commenting. Peace and fair winds!
PS. Love our Rocna :)
You're right in that it's there if a bit indirectly. Should have watched it twice! Thanks!
You used the word fetch. Not sure what you are taking about.
Fetch builds up? Used a term without explanation!
Did not say how to take anchor up.
Throwing in my cat among the pigeons: Anchoring First of all, cruisers should be aware that most anchor companies create sizing charts for boats that will never see winds in excess of 30 knots. Cruisers could easily see winds that are well beyond that limit so you should at least go up one size in your anchor selection. Those charts are for the weekend boater, you will be anchored in a storm. I go up two sizes. Next fun fact, the pressure the wind exerts on your boat increases by the square when the velocity of the wind doubles. Or, put simply; if the wind pushes 10 lbs against your boat at 10 knots, it will push 100 lbs against your boat at 20 knots and 1000 lbs against your boat at 40 knots. No kidding. Once when anchored in 35 knots of wind. I stepped outside my bow rail and bounced up and down on my anchor rode. Drum tight. The idea of pulling that in with my hands was absurd. Even the windlass couldn't budge it (average windlass pulls 550 lbs). According to the charts, my boat pulls 900 lbs against the rode in 30 knots of wind. Now, look at that puny 35 lb anchor for your 45 foot boat! No way. 55-60 lbs is proper (mine is a 72 lb Rocna). And 45 lbs is proper for the boats in the 30-40 foot range. Don't believe me? Make sure you have Sea Tow and don't sleep too soundly. Oh, and please stop anchoring upwind of me. I don't have to be up in the middle of the night in a driving rain. I'm anchored properly. Next. An all chain rode is best for a cruiser. Lots of reasons. 1) Weight gets added to the anchoring system (weight is good). 2) Chain creates a catenary that helps pull on the anchor horizontally (the way it's supposed to). 3) Chain will not chafe through on sharp underwater things (sucks to lose your expensive anchor). 4) Chain runs through a windlass all by itself nicely and locks temporarily wherever you stop it. 5) You can hook multiple snubbers to a chain easily (not so with rope rode) 6) Chain is harder to steal (its just so heavy, noisy, and harder to cut) How to set an anchor 101. 1) Look at the anchorage on a chart, check the expected depths. 2) Then, don't trust the chart, look at it yourself in person. All charts are notoriously incorrect when you get into shallow water. 3) Very, very slowly cruise through the anchorage looking for underwater obstacles and checking depths. Did I mention "Go slowly" 4) You should already be aware of the state and tide and its range. You will set your anchors for proper scope at high tide and not be aground at low tide. 5) Note any current and wind to help with anchoring. 6) Cruise slowly all through your chosen anchor spot and swing area and note anything necessary (depths, rocks, sea bottom, type, neighbors, etc) Get all the info you can. Use the proper anchor for the bottom type. Nowadays a Rocna or "scoop" type is best. 7) Be aware of other boats and determine where their anchors are (ask them if necessary). 8) Get your anchor ready to deploy (hanging down, not touching water). 9) Move slowly into the wind/current over your anchor drop point. Go upwind past it as much as you expect your anchor to drag while setting. 10) Come to a complete stop and center the rudder. 11) Walk up to the bow and as soon as you start drifting backwards, lower (not drop) your anchor until it touches bottom. 12) As the boat drifts back pay out rode to first lay the anchor down, and then lay the rode down in a nice straight line as the boat continues to drift back. Dropping extra rode now could foul the anchor. Don't put any tension on the rode yet, but don't drop extra chain to wad it up in a ball on the bottom and or foul the anchor either. 13) Pay out a little more rode than you need then snub it off (don't use the gypsy to stop boat if possible). Allow the rode to tighten and stop the boat. If the boat falls off at an angle (probably), that's OK. The bow always falls off when pushed by the wind. Put your foot on the snubber to feel for any dragging. Be sure it is set. 14) Personal preference. You may now want to back down on the rode to set it firmly. Some people prefer to allow the anchor time to sink into the mud a while before doing this and only set the anchor later (hour or so). Some people back down hard with the engine to be sure they have a good set. Some people use the boats momentum drifting backwards to set the anchor. In any case, sure it is set before sleeping or leaving the boat. 15) Now take up any extra rode so that you have: 5/1 for a lunch set. daytime, settled weather, never leaving the boat. 7/1 for calm conditions overnight and you will not leave the boat. 10/1 for all other times (storm imminent, leaving the boat for the day, sleeping overnight (always a possible nightime thunderstorm in the tropics)). 16) Now set the snubber to allow stretch for waves and wakes. Ten to twelve feet is enough with a properly sized snubber. Most are way too thick. It's supposed to stretch like a rubber band when shock loaded. Pay out enough anchor rode to allow only the snubber to take shock loads.
Thanks for your points.
1. As Jamie says, we have a 33 *kilo* anchor
2. We've held fast in 80kts. It's not the wind, but the *waves* which will get you.
3. Hope you wouldn't be daft enough to try to pull up a taught line without motoring on to it?
I could go on, but I can't be bothered. Liz.
Hi Liz, great site. Lots of good info and very well done videos. Keep up the good work. What does "pull up a taught line..." mean? I use a 33 kilo Rocna as well. Gotta love a properly sized anchor.