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How to anchor a boat

Anchoring is an indispensable boating skill. Boats anchored correctly are secure even in bad weather with winds and tides acting on them. Anchoring a boat right is as much an art as science. Here are a few tips that can help you anchor your boat securely.

Leave sufficient space around the boat: When anchoring your boat, leave sufficient space around your boat. The wind and waves can cause your boat to move in a 360 degree fashion around the anchor. If there's no space for the boat to move around, it could get damaged. Another reason why you need the space; there's a possibility that your anchor might be too close to some other boats anchors causing them to foul.

Lower the rode carefully: When lowering the rode, carefully ensure that the anchor has not fouled on your boat's propeller.

Steer clear of submarine cables: Some areas may have submarine cables running through. Most charts outline these areas. Take care so that your anchor doesn't foul on such cables.

Leave generous amount of rode: Generally, it is advisable to have 5 feet of rode for every 25 feet of water during the day and 8 feet of rode for 25 feet of water, during the night.

Wait and watch: Always wait for a few moments after you have anchored to ensure the anchoring is secure.

Select the right anchor: There are various types of anchors available, each one made for a particular type of soil. Select the anchors based on the soil type at the location where you are anchoring. If anchored correctly, the anchor will dig more into the water when the boat pulls making it even more secure.