Module 3 - Anchorwork
Weighing Anchor: How to Recover an Anchor Safely
Quick answer
To weigh anchor, motor gently toward the anchor as the crew takes in rode, keep the load low, break the anchor out vertically, then secure it before getting underway.
- Do not use the windlass to drag the boat forward.
- Communicate clearly between helm and foredeck.
- Secure the anchor and rode before leaving the anchorage.
To weigh (recover) the anchor, motor slowly forward while retrieving the cable. This takes the load off the cable and makes retrieval easier. When the cable is vertical (the anchor is directly below the bow), it should break free from the seabed. If it doesn't, try motoring slowly over the anchor and past it, then pulling from the opposite direction.
Wash mud and weed off the anchor and cable as it comes aboard. Stow the anchor securely — a loose anchor on deck is a serious hazard.
Key points
- Motor forward slowly while retrieving cable
- Pull vertically to break the anchor free
- If stuck: motor over and pull from the opposite direction
- Wash and stow anchor securely
Common mistakes
- Overloading the windlass by pulling the boat toward the anchor.
- Letting the bow blow off while the anchor is still partly loaded.
- Leaving the anchor unsecured after recovery.
Practise anchorwork
The anchorwork module connects anchor choice, scope, holding, recovery, and safe anchoring technique.