All newsWelcome back! This week we sat down with Bob Arrington, Oasis Experiences’ educational partner and an anchoring pro, to get the lowdown on everything anchor-related. Anchoring may seem simple, but as Bob explains, it’s an art form that every boater should learn to master. Whether you’re planning a short swim or settling in for the night, here are Bob’s top tips on anchoring like a pro.
Why Anchoring? Understanding the Basics
For Bob, anchoring isn’t just a skill—it’s one of the best parts of boating. It’s a chance to experience the open water, away from the dock, surrounded by fresh air. But anchoring isn’t for speed demons! As Allie puts it, mastering anchoring requires patience, practice, and a strong partnership between the person at the bow and the one at the helm.
Anchoring has even sparked its own debates in the boating community. While there’s more than one way to anchor, Bob’s process is designed for efficiency and safety. So, if you’re ready to find out how to set (and retrieve) an anchor with confidence, let’s get started!
Step One: Choose the Right Spot
Before dropping anchor, location is key. Ideally, you want a spot that’s protected from the wind, with a shallow water depth to make anchoring easier. Luckily, modern boaters have it easier than ever with cruising guides and online resources that identify ideal anchorage spots, often including bottom conditions and potential wind and current impacts. As Bob puts it, “It’s almost like cheating!”
Step Two: Set Up for Success with the Right Anchor Scope
Once you’ve picked a location, calculate your scope, or the amount of anchor road (line or chain) to let out. For example, if you have an all-chain anchor line, it’s heavier, so you can let out less than you would with a combination of rope and chain. And don’t forget to check how much scope nearby boats have to avoid awkward anchor “collisions.”
Step Three: Drop the Anchor—Slowly
Now that you’re positioned and scoped, it’s time to drop the anchor. First, bring the boat to a complete stop and face it into the wind (or current if it’s stronger). Lower the anchor until it hits the bottom. Here’s where many boaters make their first mistake, according to Bob: thinking they’re done once the anchor hits the seabed. Not so fast!
Step Four: Set the Anchor
To truly secure the boat, start backing it up slowly while allowing the anchor road to play out across the bottom. This prevents the anchor from dragging and helps it dig into the seabed. Keep backing up until you’re confident the anchor is buried.
Looking for a bit more peace of mind? Here’s where a snubber (a piece of nylon rope that acts as a shock absorber) can come in handy if you’re using an all-chain setup.
Step Five: Set an Anchor Alarm
For overnight anchoring, Bob recommends using an anchor drag alarm. With GPS technology, this alarm sets a “virtual boundary” around your boat. If your boat drifts beyond this circle, the alarm will sound, letting you rest easy knowing your boat will stay put all night.
Time to Relax!
Now you’re ready to kick back and enjoy the view! With your anchor securely set, you can finally head out for a swim, have lunch on the deck, or just relax knowing you’re safely anchored.
When It’s Time to Leave: Retrieving the Anchor
When it’s time to move on, retrieving the anchor is essentially the reverse of setting it. Communication is critical here, especially since the boat’s propellers are spinning, and you want to avoid getting the anchor line tangled. The person at the helm should follow directions from the bow, moving slowly as the anchor is reeled in. Remember, don’t rely solely on the windlass to pull the boat toward the anchor—use the boat’s movement to make retrieval easy.
Finally, double-check that the anchor is securely stowed before setting off. There’s nothing worse than a loose anchor dragging behind your boat!
Anchors Aweigh! Lessons from Bob
With Bob’s guide, you’ll be well-prepared to anchor safely and confidently. For Bob, anchoring is more than a technical skill—it’s a way to enjoy the best parts of boating. He suggests, “Respect the process, practice communication, and give yourself time to really enjoy your surroundings.” With these anchoring tips, you can make the most of your time on the water.
Join The Boater’s Lounge Community with Oasis Experiences
Feeling inspired? Follow Oasis Experiences on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube for more tips and stories from the boating world. And if you’ve got a guest or a topic suggestion for the new season of the podcast this winter, let us know at marketing@oasismarinas.com. Until next time, boaters—keep the throttle down, the sails tight, and your anchor securely set!