Module 3 - Anchorwork
Anchoring Technique
Brief the drop point, intended depth and cable, roles, signals, hazards, abort and recovery plan before entering the final approach. Approach slowly against the dominant wind or stream when the surrounding hazards permit, stop over the chosen position, then lower the anchor under control. Let the yacht move astern while veering cable so it lays out rather than piling on the anchor or running across crew.
For the RYA starting guide, scope uses the greatest expected vertical distance from the bow roller to the seabed: maximum water depth during the stay plus bow height. About 4:1 for all chain and 6:1 for warp with a short length of chain are useful moderate-condition starting points. Wind, sea, stream, bottom, vessel, maker guidance and available room may require more cable or a different anchorage; a snubber can transfer load away from the windlass and add elasticity where appropriate.
Set the anchor by bringing the cable under increasing astern load in a controlled manner while observing the cable and the vessel's movement. Use a well-oriented shore transit where available, but remember that one transit may not reveal motion along its line. Corroborate with another bearing or transit, GNSS position or alarm, depth trend, cable behaviour and continued weather and traffic checks. A steady electronic display or one aligned pair is not a guarantee.
| Evidence | What it can show | Important limitation |
|---|---|---|
| Shore transit | Movement across a chosen line of sight | May miss movement along the transit; objects must be fixed and well separated |
| GNSS position or anchor alarm | Movement beyond a configured radius | Reference point, normal swing, position error, power and alarm audibility matter |
| Depth trend | Unexpected movement across a sloping bottom | A flat bottom can hide movement and transducer offset must be understood |
| Cable and vessel behaviour | Load, vibration, yaw and continuing astern movement | No single feel or angle proves secure holding in changing conditions |
Common questions
How much anchor chain should I put out?
About four times maximum bow-to-seabed depth is a common all-chain starting guide in moderate conditions. The actual plan must account for bottom, wind, sea, stream, vessel, equipment guidance and safe swinging room.
How do I know whether the anchor is holding?
Apply a controlled setting load, then corroborate a well-oriented transit with another position cue such as a second bearing, GNSS alarm, depth trend or cable behaviour. Continue monitoring as conditions change.
Should an anchor be thrown?
No. Stop over the intended drop and lower it under control, then veer cable as the yacht moves astern so the rode lays out cleanly.
Optional quick check
Section 3 of 4
Current depth is 3 m, a 2 m tidal rise is expected and the bow roller is 1 m above the water. What is the 4:1 all-chain starting length?
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Sources and factual review
Reviewed 20 August 2026 - Day Skipper Revision.
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