how do you set the anchor ?

serpa4

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 20, 2020
Messages
286
Fluid Motion Model
R-23 (Sterndrive)
Hull Identification Number
FMLC3051D818
Vessel Name
DayLo
MMSI Number
368173760
I've been a sailboat guy for years. My 1st outing in key west with my 435 C30 was great and I never dragged anchor. However when setting it I often pulled it up. I have a 35lb mantus M1 and anchored in 5 to 8 ft water and let out a guess of 7 to 1. In my 18hp sailboat I'd set with about 1/2 throttle. This boat obviously has more than 18hp.
How much throttle or RPM do you use when backing down when settling your anchor?
 
On my 26-footer with VP44 diesel and duo-prop, and also on my 37 Nordic Tug, I have very rarely used more than idle in reverse to set the anchor anywhere on the Inside Passage.

On the relatively rare occasions when a much stronger wind was forecast to come up during the night, I have used a few seconds of maybe 1/4 throttle - or even less on the Nordic Tug with its 28" prop - just to make a little more sure the Rocna is well set.
 
Your anchor is a good one! And you letting out enough chain and rope to get a good scope.
As to setting the anchor, I back up at about 3 mph (brisk walking speed) for as long as it takes until the anchor sets. Setting bringing me to a complete stop and the rode goes tight. I typically will surge slightly forward after letting the reverse power off and the rode will go slack. Then I add a bit of reverse power again for a few seconds to double check that it’s really set.
 
At that depth and scope, not sure if you are on 100% chain. If so, you should use a chain snubber to absorb shock of the anchor rode as the boat lifts with waves. That might be pulling up the anchor. Don’t know your area but you might have some seaweed beds working against you. Another option is to let out more rode, set the anchor and then pull in some line. That seems to work for me when I’m in an anchorage where I can only afford to have 4:1 scope due to other boats or narrow cove. I wouldn’t do that for an overnight though. As far as throttle, I use slightly more than idle. I anchor in a muddy bottom.


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I do have a mantis snubber.however reaching underneath the front ladder to attach it to the chain can be pretty difficult.
 
serpa4":1rrovaaq said:
I do have a mantis snubber.however reaching underneath the front ladder to attach it to the chain can be pretty difficult.
I hear you. I have a Mantus swivel on my spade anchor and sometimes it’s not turned the right direction when pulling it up so I have to lean over to spin the anchor, hoping my glasses don’t fall into the water!


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