Choosing the right anchor is crucial for your safety on the water. An incorrect anchor can drift in a storm or damage the seabed. Here’s everything you need to know.
Types of Anchors
- Plow Anchor (CQR/Delta) – Excellent in sand and mud, a good all-round choice for most boats
- Danforth Anchor – Light and compact, works well in sand but less so in gravel and rock
- Bruce Anchor – Quick setting, good in most bottom types, popular on sailboats
- Mushroom Anchor – Only for permanent moorings, not suitable for daily use
- Chain Anchor – Used as weight in combination with other anchors
How to Choose the Right Size?
Anchor weight depends on the boat's length and weight:
- Up to 5 m boat → 4–6 kg anchor
- 5–8 m boat → 6–10 kg anchor
- 8–12 m boat → 10–16 kg anchor
- Over 12 m → 16 kg+ anchor
Important Factors to Consider
- Bottom Type – Sand, mud, gravel, or rock require different anchor types
- Anchor Rode vs. Anchor Chain – Chain provides better holding power but is heavier; rode is lighter but requires more length
- Scope (rode length) – Use at least 5–7 times the water depth for good holding power
- Weather Conditions – In exposed locations, choose a heavier anchor than recommended
Care & Storage
- Rinse the anchor with fresh water after each use in saltwater
- Regularly check that the anchor rode/chain is not worn or corroded
- Store the anchor dry and secured so it doesn't damage the boat in rough seas
