riding/anchor sail - swinging on the hook

[captainpat]

I am looking for solutions to the problem of swinging around the anchor. I am not all that convinced that a riding sail - especially on a boat without a backstay or topping lift - is a good answer to the problem. The "delta sail" would appear to be the best option for the riding sail issue, but I'm still unconvinced. Setting a drag off the bow does not sound that effective either.. Anyone having experience with successfully minimizing the amount of swing while at anchor- particularly with the larger Hunters - please respond. I would like to hear form "delta sail" users.
So far, I think the best solution may not include the use of a riding sail at all. Setting an off-center bridal to leeward sounds like it may be the most effective.

 

[Stu Jackson]

So far, I think the best solution may not include the use of a riding sail at all. Setting an off-center bridal to leeward sounds like it may be the most effective.

Leeward could keep changing.

The bridle from the side (pick one, your choice ) is a very effective tool. Rolling hitch on anchor rode back to the jib sheet winch. Works very well.

There was another discussion yesterday. http://forums.catalina.sailboatowners.com/showthread.php?t=156702

 

[Bill Roosa]

you can anchor in a tidal stream, single swing in 6 hours
use a second anchor off the stern
find a really snug anchorage where the wind don't blow much (my favorite)
distribute qualuds to the crew so nobody cares

 

[quadrille38]

If you do a search on here there are no less than 6 threads on the subject already. Here is one from just a few days ago. In it you will see a post I put in giving links to several more threads. Its been pretty thoroughly discussed http://forums.sbo.sailboatowners.com/showthread.php?t=156702.

 

[Mariner356]

I've used an Anchor Sail by Banner Bay Marine for three years. My 2000 Hunter 410 does NOT have a back stay. I tie down the two "fins" to temporary lines coming from my arch traveler. I launch in early June and pull out mid September. I anchor about 85 nights each season and have always found the swing distance to be reduced about 70% and the rate of swing reduced about 80% compared to life without the Anchor Sail. I've never been disappointed in this purchase. I no longer consider myself a "menace" to other boats anchored nearby.
Placing the Anchor Sail further back towards the stern results in a greater reduction in movement while on anchor. It takes about 5 minutes to set up after setting anchor.

 

[Andreas7699]

Fin delta on my H 36. Works super. It is actually an advantage without backstay. The cocpit is also much calmer and the anchor is not pulled so hard even when it blows hard. I also sleep better because of this.