BOATsmart! Base de connaissances du Canada
Module 04 - Safe Boat Operation
Anchoring Your Craft
Anchors have several uses:
- They can be used in the event of a breakdown
- They can be used during severe weather conditions
- An anchor is also useful in non-emergency situations (such as when swimming from the stern or securing for an overnight stay)
To set the anchor, perform the following:
STEP 1
Ensure the inboard end of the anchor line is securely attached to the pleasure craft. Ensure the outboard end of the anchor line is securely fastened to the anchor.
STEP 2
Slowly lower the anchor over the bow or side of the craft until it reaches bottom. Note the distance to the bottom or note the length of rope used for the anchor to reach bottom and never throw the anchor over the side of the boat.
STEP 3
Let the boat drift rearward or operate the engine astern (in reverse). Let out an additional 5-10 times more anchor line than the depth of the water and securely fasten the desired length to the boat.
STEP 4
At only 2x and 4x depth, the anchor can dig in but there is too much upward pull on the anchor line (rode). At a length of 5 to 10 times the water’s depth, the rope lies flat on the bottom and pulls the anchor in deeper.
