Rear Thruster and Anchor Setting

[Cessna172]

My wife and I anchor out most every weekend (weather permitting). We've owned our C28 for 8 months - coming from a stern drive boat.

When backing the boat down to set the anchor, we are often averted from the intended course due to wind, current, and prop walk - making anchor setting sometimes hit or miss.

I have been using the stern thruster to try and keep the boat aligned with the anchor while backing down. I am wondering if this is a common practice of others and if there might be a better way?

Gary

 

[rpmerrill]

For sure, when backing up (or backing down), there is very little rudder authority. Having a stern thruster is a great benefit. (I come from sailboating where the rudders are very big.) Using the thruster for adjusting your "heading" is probably a pretty workable solution. Just be aware that you are not supposed to run the thrusters for long runs (I think 10 seconds) or to switch quickly back and forth.

Let's see what some of the others have to say.