Five Factors That Determine a Safe Anchorage
There are five factors that determine whether or not you have obtained a safe and secure anchorage. It is important that the mariner not overlook any of these five factors when anchoring their boat. Failure to observe even one of them could result in serious consequences to the mariner.
The first factor one must consider is seabed. Is the seabed made up of rock, soft mud, hard clay or some combination of all of them? Consulting your chart for the area will provide the answer allowing you to choose the best anchor based on the type of bottom. Hard mud or clay provides the best holding ground. If you cannot determine the type of seabed a larger plow or claw anchor should be used.
The second factor to consider is wind, sea and ground swell protection. The best anchorage will provide for protection from wind and sea from at least three sides. In areas where the wind is steady choose an anchorage that protects from the most dominant wind. If in an area where the winds are constantly shifting find an anchorage that will protect you after the wind shifts. Finally if large ground swells are encountered plan to let out more rode to accommodate them.
The third factor to consider is tides and current. You need to know the tidal range in the area wherein you are anchoring in order to correctly calculate scope. This is easily accomplished by consulting a tide-table for your location. If in an area of shifting currents it is best to set two anchors.
The fourth factor for consideration is swinging room. Are other boats in the anchorage using one or two anchors? In areas where current shifts of 180 degrees are experienced two anchors will keep the boats swing to about one boat length. Remember on one anchor a boat will swing in a circle with a diameter of twice the amount of rode that is out. And, finally stay clear of any boat which you feel is not anchored adequately.
Factor number five is drag indications and bearings. To check for dragging do the following: with a strain on the anchor stick your arm out and place the back of your hand on the rode. If you feel any vibration your anchor is dragging. When you are anchored securely take a bearing on a prominent object on shore. Record the bearing on your log and check it often with the bearing remaining the same you are securely anchored.
By observing these five factors you will be safely anchored. You will keep your boat from going adrift and possibly ending up on the rocks or crashing into another boat in the anchorage. And, you may take satisfaction in the knowledge that you have taken all of the steps that mark you as a responsible and prudent mariner.
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