Anchors for Hunter 170

[JD]

I have a Hunter 170 in the Washington DC area and I sail in the Potomac. My kids were driving me nuts about anchoring so they could go swimming last summer. However, I don't have an anchor and I'm not sure how to rig one on a boat--any ideas out there? I think the Potomac is kind of muddy and not that deep, so I'm wondering what kind of anchor, teh length of chain (if any), the amount of rope and type, storage on the boat and securing spots for the anchor rope/chain arrangement. Also, I can't think that there are not some significant hazards/gotchas with anchoring that I am not aware of. Thanks--JD

 

[Del Wiese]

anchoring basics

I took a look in the West Marine 2002 catalog, on page 672 they have a traditional anchor and rode package. For $100 you get an 8 pound anchor (Danforth type), 15 feet of chain and 1509 feet of 3/8 inch rode. They specify up to 24 foot boat, a bit overkill for your boat. You might explore other options at West or other sources but these are the basic things you will need. Should be a bow cleat to secure the line. Don't know anything about your boat to suggest where to store it. General rule is about 7:1 scope, i.e. 7 feet of rode for every 1 foot of water depth. Gotchas that come to mind quickly are making sure the anchor is set, backing down with the engine is the usual method. And checking periodically to make sure you are not drifting, by relationship to other boats or landmarks, or even with GPS.

 

[Ed Schenck]

Small boat anchoring.

Del has it right, the WM package should be a good fit. Most smaller boat anchors are kept in a heavy bag and stowed in a locker. Walk it forward when needed. I would think you need this anyway. There could be situations where you will need to anchor to fix or avoid a problem.

 

[JD]

Thanks for the gouge

Thanks for the response--bit more confident about getting that first anchor!!!