There is rarely any boat-related topic that sparks controversy and strong opinions like anchoring. A lot about how to anchor and which anchor system works best have been written and widely discussed. However, there is only mushroom literature about the etiquette of anchoring. Here are brief notes on anchoring etiquette.
The Unwritten Rules of Boat Anchoring:
The first boat sets the precedent:
The principle of first-come, first-serve applies also in Anchorage. Respecting the space needs of the first boat to arrive, even if you are the fiftieth is not a weakness but simply good manners. Factors that need to be considered before taking turns during anchorage include; type of boat, method of anchoring, selection of location and behavior of the boaters. If you are unsure about the first boater that arrived, simply ask questions. If possible, go from boat to boat to inquire about boats that preceded others.
Come in slowly:
Anchoring can be likened to moving into a new house and the need to create a good first impression so that neighbors might invite you over, so there is really no need to rush. The best decisions in life are not made in haste but are made by evaluating and re-evaluating things before taking steps. Hastes do not work in Anchorage, if you overthrow others and come in faster than you should, you might end up being an outcast in an awkward parking line.
Respecting anchor lines is vital, it is better to pass behind anchored boats than passing over an anchor line. Also, do not forget to keep lighting effects as minimal as possible and reduce your voice, you do not want to ruin other people’s eyesight with your excessively bright light or “wake sleeping dogs” with your high pitched voice.
Treat your neighbours with respect:
All work and no play makes Jack a dull or something like that. We reckon that everyone deserves to have fun but it is rude to disturb others with your fun. Endless cell phone beeping and loud conversations, to mention a few are disrespectful traits that should not be encouraged during anchorage. If you are at the receiving end, it is important to note that there is no level of training that can take away the rudeness of some boaters. So, we advise that you take the rudeness in good fate and move on. We have gathered a lot of experience from making the same mistakes too and we hope to aid you in preventing and avoiding issues relating to disrespect.
Anchor Securely:
Two major issues exist during anchoring in an empty Harbour. The issues are simply the anchor you are using and how you deploy it. It is essential to note that if your anchor drags most of the time, what is required is a bigger anchor. It is possible to include scopes, more chains, or completely switch to a new anchor design.
It is advisable to attempt switching to a “better” anchor if need be, but this time, make sure it is bigger. Dragging, although considered normal by some is completely abnormal. Imagine the panic that comes with cars disappearing from initial parking slots? Sailboats also do not deserve this awkward situation, so if there is going to be any form of dragging, ensure it is in the most minimal state.
Anchor Precisely:
Be precise about the location for anchoring, choose desired spots for anchorage. It is best you position your boats where you want them to end up during constant wind and current-free conditions. The rule is that your motor forward into the wind a distance that equates the amount of rode you wish to release, add a few extra feet to allow the anchor to slide a bit before holding. If the water is 21 feet deep, for example, and your bow roller is 4 feet high. The boat is expected to sit about 100 feet behind your anchor if your rode is fully extended on 4:1 scope.
Of course, you need to have the required boat accessories and equipment to ensure, not just a smooth anchoring but a smooth sailing experience.
