Anchoring: get the scope and set right

Scope: how much chain

Scope is the ratio of rode (chain) length to water depth measured from the bow roller.

• All chain: aim for at least 4:1, more in wind or swell.
• Always add the height of the bow above the water to the depth.

Example: 5 m depth + 1.5 m bow height = 6.5 m. At 4:1 you pay out about 26 m of chain.

Setting the hook

1. Pick sand or mud if you can; avoid weed and rock.
2. Lower (don't drop) the anchor with the boat stopped or moving slowly astern.
3. Pay out chain as you drift back, then back down gently with the engine.
4. Watch a transit ashore to confirm you are not dragging.

Before you relax

• Set an anchor alarm.
• Check the swing circle against other boats and the shore.
• Note depth at low tide so you don't end up aground.