We have decided to do a boat trip and are going to be a good time standing in the same place. A little bit of wind, so that if only we stop the engine and do not cast the anchor (anchor), very possibly will end up in another place further away from that we decided to stay. To avoid this, we are going to teach you how anchoring a boat.
The anchor is a maneuver consisting in assembling the boat to the bed, a sailor with a chain by or out and using an anchor or dead.
To know the direction of the wind
First of all, and most important, is to know from where the wind is coming from because we always have that anchor BOW to the wind.
To know the depth
We have to know what depth we have (in the case of our boats are equipped with a probe) as a function of this, we can know the borneo of the boat (explanation below).
Borneo: circular motion that describes a boat around the position of anchoring. The wind changes and makes the boat turn in a circle, as if a compass is involved; it is important to have this into account not just of our boat, but with respect to the other boats, rocks, coast, buoys, etc
How much place you should drop in anchor
Once taken into account these details, it is time to drop out, how much out should I drop to anchoring a boat? This depends on the depth and weather conditions.
In normal conditions, 3 times the depth that we have: if, for example, we have 4 metres of depth, release 12 metres out are sufficient). In worst weather conditions and with greater depth, this proportion will be greater if we want our funding to be more secure.
Types of Anchors and How to Choose the Right one to Anchor a Boat
The success of the mooring of a boat depends largely on the choice of the anchor proper. Not all anchors work the same in all types of seafloor, so it is essential to know the options available and to know what is best suited to the specific conditions of your navigation. Here are the types of anchors are more common and their applications:
1. Anchor Danforth
The anchor Danforth is one of the most popular, especially valued for its excellent grip on funds sandy or muddy. Its design with long arms and a flat structure makes it ideal for these types of fund, as it penetrates easily and offers a firm hold. However, it is not recommended for rocky soils, where its effectiveness decreases significantly.
2. Bruce Anchor
The Bruce anchor, also known as anchor claw, is the preferred option for anchoring in mixed backgrounds or rocky. Its curved design allows you to grab quickly on varied terrains, providing a reliable clamping. This versatility makes it an excellent option when you are browsing areas with different types of seafloor.
3. Anchor CQR
The anchor CQR, popularly known as anchor plough, is another option very versatile. It is effective in a variety of funds, including sand, mud and gravel. His design of the plow allows you to cut and penetrate into the bottom, which makes it especially reliable in various conditions. It is a solid choice for those looking for a stable performance in different situations.
4. Anchor Rocna
The anchor Rocna stands out for its ability to grip on most of the seabed, although it is particularly effective in mud and sand. Its modern design allows it to settle quickly and provide a secure grip, making it ideal for situations where it is crucial to ensure the boat quickly.
Common mistakes when Anchoring a Boat and How to Avoid them
Anchoring a boat properly may seem simple, but there are common mistakes that even experienced boaters can commit. Here we will show you some of these errors and how to avoid them to ensure a safe anchorage:
1. Do Not Release Enough Out
A frequent mistake is to not drop enough out. The amount of place that you should drop should be at least two to three times the depth of the water, even in adverse conditions, it is recommended to increase this proportion. Drop enough out allows the anchor has an angle clamping suitable and improve your grip.
2. Do not Calculate the Borneo
Borneo is the circular motion that made the boat around the anchor due to the changes in the direction of the wind or the current. Not properly calculate this space can result in collisions with other boats, rocks or obstacles nearby. Make sure to have enough free space around your boat to avoid accidents.
3. Do not Check the Grip of the Anchor
Once you've released the anchor, it is crucial to make sure that you have grasped the bottom. To do this, apply back gently and see if the anchor remains fixed. This step is vital to confirm that the ship does not move unexpectedly.
4. Does not Take into Account the Weather Conditions
Ignore the weather conditions can put you at risk funding. Wind, currents and tides can have a significant influence on the stability of the anchor. Before anchoring check the weather forecast and adjust your technique of anchoring according to the conditions to ensure the safety of the boat.
How the Weather Conditions Affect the Mooring of a Boat
The climate is a determining factor in the effectiveness of the mooring of a boat. Weather conditions can change quickly, and it is essential to be prepared to adapt the technique of anchoring according to the situation. Below, we'll explain how different conditions can affect the anchoring, and what to do to counter them:
1. Strong Wind
In conditions of strong wind, the boat exerts greater pressure on the anchor, what can make you move if you're not properly insured. To avoid this, it is recommended to release more place or chain, which increases the bracing angle and provides more stability. In extreme situations, consider using a second anchor to reinforce the security.
2. Strong Currents
Strong currents can drag the boat laterally, reducing the effectiveness of the anchor. To anchor in areas with large currents, look for an area where the current is less strong, or use an anchor designed for these conditions, as a CQR or a Rocna, which offer more grip in funds difficult.
3. Changing Tides
The tides not only alter the depth of the water, but also can change the direction and intensity of currents. In tidal areas that are meaningful, it is essential to calculate both the high tide and low to make sure that the boat is not left stranded or out not to be insufficient.
4. Wave conditions
The wave conditions can cause the boat to swing considerably, which could compromise the anchor if it has not been released enough out. In waters with a lot of wave motion, seeks to protected areas or bays where the effect of the wave is less to anchor more safely.
To stay informed about weather conditions before and during your navigation is essential to ensure a safe anchorage, and cash. Don't hesitate to adjust your technique and equipment according to the circumstances to ensure that your boat remains in the desired position.
If you want to continue learning more of sailing, as anchoring a boat, I hope in the course of PER/GNP (Skipper of Recreational Craft Pattern/ Basic Navigation of Our sailing School Oceanautic, in Benalmadena (Malaga).
More info at: PER – Skipper of Recreational Craft
