Thedbinc

Why is a great anchorage? Surround your boat on a minimum of three sides with shelter–similar to some garage. Wind and seas can change direction. For instance, you might get for your anchorage and hang your anchor with wind blowing in the North. Listen to the marine weather forecast. When the wind will later shift to the East, choose and anchorage with protection towards the North and East and South. That way, you are protected with the zone of expected wind shift. How can you tell in case your anchor will remain put, or drag along the bottom? Study your own nautical chart before you enter any anchorage. Which includes anchorages which are recommended. Take time to learn the chart symbols that let you know the type of sea bottom. Some bottom types, such as rock, grass, or kelp offer bad holding ground, and you will bet you will not sleep too well. Other bottom types, like clay, hard mud, or sand are better for the anchor to “hook ‘n hold”. Try looking in an anchor guide like a marine catalog. Find the table of recommended anchor sizes based on the period of your boat. Slide over to the following larger boat size and choose your anchor from that table. No matter what the catalog says, pick an anchor one size-up from that recommended. That will provide you with an edge for weightier weather, crowded anchorages, and peace-of-mind.