When you are out on your boat, you want to have confidence that you can stay safely anchored even in potentially dangerous conditions. Here are a few rules to keep in mind for anchoring your boat with rope.
Length and Diameter
Most recreational boats can be anchored with nylon rope. The nylon will stretch with waves or wind, reducing the impact of either on the boat. Boating Magazine suggests that you use 7 feet of rope (this is the length of rope, plus the length of a lead chain that links the rope to the anchor) per foot of water depth that your boat is anchored in. You should use an eighth of an inch in diameter of double braid rope for every 9 feet of length of your boat.
Chain
A chain should connect the rope to the anchor so that the anchor will not chafe the rope. Boating Magazine recommends a boat length of galvanized steel chain. A crown splice or back splice can be used to weave the chain into the rope. The chain should then be shackled to the anchor.
Dropping the Anchor
When dropping the anchor, your boat should be facing into the current or wind. Always attach the anchor to the front or bow of the boat, as anchoring from the back may cause small boats to capsize. Once the rope is let out, use the engine in reverse to carefully set the anchor. Afterward, Discover Boating suggests that you determine a few landmarks and check them frequently to ensure that you are not drifting.
The Best Nylon Rope
Nylon rope is one of the best tools for safely anchoring your boat. In most cases you will be anchoring your boat for a quick swim or to fish, however, in some cases you will need to anchor your boat in bad weather to keep it from running aground. In these cases you want to make sure you have the best possible configuration for your anchor. Quality Nylon Rope offers a broad selection of rope that is ideal for anchoring your boat. Keep these rules in mind to find the perfect rope for your boat and anchor.
