CQR 35 pound anchor on a B331 anchor roller?

Jan 10, 2018
264
Beneteau 331 Halifax
Hello all,

My B331 came with a Lewmar 33 pound claw (Bruce) anchor, which seems to work fine. I do have a 35 pound CQR plow (made in Scotland) from my previous boat. I would like to use the CQR as I have complete confidence in it.

Has anyone used this anchor? I am wondering whether it will strike the bow of the boat when on the roller.
The Bruce is fine, as shaped differently.

Any thoughts?

My B331 was made after they lengthened the roller somewhat.

Many thanks!
 
Feb 21, 2013
4,638
Hunter 46 Point Richmond, CA
............My B331 came with a Lewmar 33 pound claw (Bruce) anchor, ............I do have a 35 pound CQR plow (made in Scotland) from my previous boat. I would like to use the CQR as I have complete confidence in it. Has anyone used this anchor? I am wondering whether it will strike the bow of the boat when on the roller. The Bruce is fine, as shaped differently. My B331 was made after they lengthened the roller somewhat.
Although I have not used a CQR anchor, as I have always used a Manson Supreme (25 lb on a Hunter 31, 35 lb on a Hunter 386 and now 60 lb on a Hunter 46). The CQR plow anchor is very common anchor in our marina. From the photos below I would not expect the CQR anchor to strike the bow of the boat, especially since you the you have an extended anchor roller. I know it is a hassle, but it would be easy enough to replace the anchors and pull her up to see how the CQR fits on your anchor roller.
1588514212109.png
 
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jssailem

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
Oct 22, 2014
22,771
CAL 35 Cruiser #21 moored EVERETT WA
I have often wondered what my anchor looks like, on the sea bottom. How does it react to the various strains, pulls and reversals that occur while I hope to be sitting peacefully at the surface. I could never hold my breath long enough to observe these events. Then I found a video from SV Panope. This fellow gave me a look at what is happening down on the sea bottom.

Perhaps watching his videos will provide a clearer picture for you then any anecdotal experience I can share about my anchor choice.

 

jssailem

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
Oct 22, 2014
22,771
CAL 35 Cruiser #21 moored EVERETT WA
I have often wondered what my anchor looks like, on the sea bottom. How does it react to the various strains, pulls and reversals that occur while I hope to be sitting peacefully at the surface. I could never hold my breath long enough to observe these events. Then I found a video from SV Panope. This fellow gave me a look at what is happening down on the sea bottom.

Perhaps watching his videos will provide a clearer picture for you then any anecdotal experience I can share.


 
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Likes: sail sfbay
Jun 21, 2004
2,777
Beneteau 343 Slidell, LA
I chartered a 331 many times that had a 33lb Bruce anchor & 3/8" chain + nylon rhode. Never had any issues with holding in a sandy bottom, even while anchored during some nasty thunderstorms. Having said that, I changed out my 33lb Bruce and now have a Rocna.
 
Jan 10, 2018
264
Beneteau 331 Halifax
To BigEasy: Yes, that's what I have and it has never given a problem. Must be the standard set-up that you get when you add this option to the original purchase.

To jssailem: Those videos are damn interesting!! Although usually you snug the thing in before any drag is put on it. And in any condition that I anchor in, there is a pull, a stretch, the boat stops, moves forward a bit, etc. In other words, there is usually not a large continuous pulling with no let-up.
 

jssailem

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
Oct 22, 2014
22,771
CAL 35 Cruiser #21 moored EVERETT WA
It is all about proper setting and scope. The 13 was a small anchor on a speed boat. He was definitely working the anchor to fail.

You said you have a 33lb Bruce. That is what was on the boat when I bought it. It works with the right bottom. I decided to change it out for a Mantus 35lb. I think it is a bit better in the ell grass and kelp beds we get up here. At least I hope so. Time will tell. We have a lot of current change - tidal change. It tests the anchor and the skipper's skills.
 
Sep 3, 2013
38
Beneteau 331 Brewer's Warwick
Based on the picture sent by SFBay check out how much anchor can move on the hinge. I'm still using the original Bruce. The only issue I had was during a squall when the wind changed 180 degrees on a mucky bottom. The original chain was only about 20', I now have ~ 40'
 

jssailem

SBO Weather and Forecasting Forum Jim & John
Oct 22, 2014
22,771
CAL 35 Cruiser #21 moored EVERETT WA
Barry. Check out the SV Panope videos. He recreates your experience with a Bruce 33 lb anchor and comes up with a theory on why it happens.
 

DougM

.
Jul 24, 2005
2,242
Beneteau 323 Manistee, MI
I have a 35 pound lewmar plow anchor stored on the factory bow roller of my 323. Tip of the plow comes close but doesn’t touch the bow. Good anchor in sand, worthless like anything else in a weedy bottom. Qualifier: I don’t anchor out much.

I don’t have to worry about tidal flow, there isn’t any. I have 150 feet of nylon rode and 20 feet of chain. and have occasionally used a mushroom anchor as a kellet on the end of the chain.
 
Jan 10, 2018
264
Beneteau 331 Halifax
Thanks DougM. There is a B323 next to me in the yard and I'll have a look.
I can take the Bruce off and hitch up the CQR, but it's a lot of work and I thought I'd get some opinions first.
 
Feb 21, 2013
4,638
Hunter 46 Point Richmond, CA
I just saw 8 boats close by with CQR anchors and no fouling of the boat. Suggest deploying your existing anchor in your skip, move the chain aside, tie a rope to the CQR anchor and deploy over your bow roller, then pull it up onto the bow roller. If it does not foul the boat then you are good to swap anchors. Good luck and let us know the outcome.