Before you decide where to anchor there are a few considerations to take in to account.
Changes in depth: When you anchor in an area with a rise and fall of tide, it is essential that you know that there will
be sufficient depth for the vessel at low tide.
This is ensured by calculating the height of tide when you arrive, subtracting the height of low water to find the fall
of the tide, then adding this to the draught of the boat and the required clearance below the keel at low water. See the example
below:
|
Height of tide on arrival =
Height of low tide =
Fall of the tide =
Draught of vessel =
Clearance required below the keel at low water =
Minimum depth of water in which to anchor = |
5.0m
1.5m
3.5m
1.4m
1.0m
5.9m |
Obviously, the chart can be consulted first to find an area where the depths are likely to be suitable for anchoring, but
the final spot is chosen by the above method (when checking the depth, remember to allow for the swing of the boat).
- Boat preparation: The foredeck should be prepared by;
- The anchor should be released from any lashings.
- The head sails cleared to prevent damage and to give some space.
- Sufficient chain laid out on the deck for the expected depth.
- The chain must be secured to the boat (if not, all the chain may be pulled out from the chain locker!)
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- Depth: Is the water shallow enough for the length of cable carried? Is it deep enough for the boat, now and later? How
much cable should be laid out?
Anchors work best when pulled horizontally. This is only ensured when there is sufficient scope or length of
cable laid.
