Anchor and rode suitable for a Senior

I would suggest about a 12 to 15lb anchor.

Type is dependent on where you sail, (or anchor!!)  and where you are going to stow it.  If it is to be stowed flat on deck a Danforth is best. Good for mud or sand.  OK for rocky bottom too.

If you intend to hang it by the bow, on a roller next to a short bowsprit, then the ‘Delta’ wins every time.  A modern take on the ‘CQR’ plough anchor.  There are others you may consider, the ‘Bruce’ is good, odd shape but holds well.  Plough anchors are good for mud and sand not so good for rocky areas.

Avoid the grapnel shaped anchors, they are really only any good for dinghies, because they fold for storage.  Not good in use except in light boats.  Good for rocky areas though, if heavy enough!

There are two choices for anchor rode, do you go for a full  length of chain , ¼ would be strong enough, and a deck entry point, hawse pipe, so it can stow below near the mast support, or would you prefer a rope, 12mm thick, (easier on the hands if that thick, no thinner..) and just a couple of metres of chain near the anchor. 

Always a problem getting the chain to fall freely back into the locker when you are stowing it..  you end up with it on deck and feeding it through link at a time if the fall is not vertical to the chain locker…

I would suggest the normal ‘Shackle’ of chain, (90ft) may be a little overkill, but good to have it all aboard!

If you are going for rope and chain, 150ft of rope and 6ft of chain at the anchor end.  (Or two metres!)  This normally has to be stowed in a box on deck with a couple of bungees to hold it in the box.  Advantage is it is lighter and you can remove and stow below.

 John

Website coordinator.

Eventide Owners Group

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