Anchor Chain Question

[Dana]

I am adding some additional anchor chain to my ground tackle and I would like to know if anyone can give me some ideas on chain diameter and length for my Cat 30. I currently have only 20 ft of chain and 150ft of 5/8 rode. I am considering 100ft of chain to add to my existing rode. What would be a good chain size without overkill?

 

[Wendell]

50 ft chain

Last year we went to 50 ft of chain (sorry, can't remember the size. but is the same as original equipment for a Cat 30). Over the summer we spent most nights at anchor in currents, wind, waves and tides of up to 15ft without noticable anchor drag. There is a real difference weighing anchor due to the chain's weight. I had to get a good pair of gloves after the 3rd day of a week long sail.

 

[Sean]

Anchor chain

I was having the same problem. The frequent anchoring in the San Juans was killing me. I switched to 20 feet of chain and an aluminum Fortress anchor and I love it. Anchoring is a snap. Sean

 

[Bob Camarena]

I have 20'

I use 20' of chain on my C-30 here in the Delta and SF Bay and rarely have any problem, even in 25 winds. When I do, it's invariably due to grass, sunken grapevines, or old fence posts. Yes, we do encounter some strange bottom flora here in the Delta with our flooded farmland. I don't know if I'd experience more problems if I had to contend with a strong surge from the open ocean.

 

[Brad McEachern]

Kellet

Hi , I have 30 feet of chain. Ask at your dealer for the diameter, they should have a chart. Tell them your boat is 10,200. The rule is 1 foot of chain for the lenth of your boat. I have 22lb brue anchor. I don't have a windless. I would not like to pull up 100 feet of chain. If you need more holding slide a 10 or 20 lb ball part way down your rode on a shackle on its own line. When its time to go, pull up the ball , then pull up your 30 feet of chain and rode. Or get a windless and go stright chain with a snubber. Lots more money.