The right anchorage is what makes a cruise a cruise.
The wrong one is what makes it a story.
You don't drop an anchor. You set one.
Choosing the Spot
Look at the forecast wind, not just today's wind. Look at tide, current, swell wrap and other boats.
A pretty bay in the wrong wind is not an anchorage.
Setting the Anchor
Slow approach. Anchor down as the boat stops. Back down gently until the boat sets.
Then wait, and check your position for a few minutes — not a few seconds.
Scope and Swing
Enough chain for the depth and conditions. Enough room to swing without landing on your neighbour.
If everyone is close, someone is going to drag.
Sleeping Well
Set an anchor alarm. Check bearings before bed. Listen to the boat.
A confident anchor is what turns a beautiful bay into a great sleep.
A well-set anchor is the difference between a night off and a night on watch.
- Do you know your rode length and how much you deploy?
- Do you actually back down to test the set, or just drift?
- Is your anchor alarm set every night?
- Choose anchorages by forecast, not today.
- Set the anchor deliberately and test it.
- Room to swing is safety, not luxury.