Just got back from a weekend cruise. Had a little trouble sleeping on Saturday night, partly because the boat was "fishtailing" at anchor so much (Winds were in 10Kn range). I was worried that the anchor might break loose or start "creeping". I guess I shouldn't have worried because I have about 30 ft of chain... Anybody have any suggestions for reducing that fishtailing action?
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Anchoring Archives
You should get lots of information in the archives; the subject is discussed a lot. If memory serves, the top choices (not in order) are as follows: Anchor sail Second anchor at full length Second anchor dropped off bow to bottom when boat is "straight" with first anchor rode Station-keeping bow and stern hydraulic thruster system with laptop synchronization and wind-instrument contols (just kidding)
You should get lots of information in the archives; the subject is discussed a lot. If memory serves, the top choices (not in order) are as follows: Anchor sail Second anchor at full length Second anchor dropped off bow to bottom when boat is "straight" with first anchor rode Station-keeping bow and stern hydraulic thruster system with laptop synchronization and wind-instrument contols (just kidding)
Also consider an anchor that handles it
Some anchors (notably *not* the Danforth) like the Bruce, Delta, or CQR can accommodate a certain amount of drifting at anchor. I always found that using one of those was a lot simpler than dropping a second hook or raising a sail.
Some anchors (notably *not* the Danforth) like the Bruce, Delta, or CQR can accommodate a certain amount of drifting at anchor. I always found that using one of those was a lot simpler than dropping a second hook or raising a sail.
Consider a sentinel
I use a sentinel, which is a weight (mine is 20#) hung on the anchor rode which is kept just above the bottom. This gives a more parallel pull on the anchor which leads to better holding and prevents keel wrap. This has cut down on sailing at anchor quite a bit on my '95 29.5.
I use a sentinel, which is a weight (mine is 20#) hung on the anchor rode which is kept just above the bottom. This gives a more parallel pull on the anchor which leads to better holding and prevents keel wrap. This has cut down on sailing at anchor quite a bit on my '95 29.5.
Thanks!
Thanks a bunch for the help... Looks like I've got a few different things to try next time... BTW, I learned my lesson: I'll check the archives first.
Thanks a bunch for the help... Looks like I've got a few different things to try next time... BTW, I learned my lesson: I'll check the archives first.
Vee-Shaped Riding Sails
In last month's issue of Ocean Navigator there was a short piece about riding sails rigged in a vee shape to head off "hunting" at anchor. It looks like an interesting solution.
In last month's issue of Ocean Navigator there was a short piece about riding sails rigged in a vee shape to head off "hunting" at anchor. It looks like an interesting solution.
Right Full Rudder!
On a 40.5, I watch the action of wind, waves and current for awhile and can usually determine the best side to turn the rudder over and then make fast the anchor rode to the opposite bow cleat. (Turn to starboard - then use port bow cleat) It cut the sailing at anchor down a lot and mostly stays to just one side. Using a bow cleat instead of the anchor roller reducing wear on the rode.
On a 40.5, I watch the action of wind, waves and current for awhile and can usually determine the best side to turn the rudder over and then make fast the anchor rode to the opposite bow cleat. (Turn to starboard - then use port bow cleat) It cut the sailing at anchor down a lot and mostly stays to just one side. Using a bow cleat instead of the anchor roller reducing wear on the rode.
The broad approach
If You measure 40 feet from your bitter end and attach a duplicate piece of anchor rode also 40 feet long, then while at anchor, tie off the added piece to a stern cleat, this will keep the boat perpendicular or 90 degrees from the anchor load. enjoy the comfort.
If You measure 40 feet from your bitter end and attach a duplicate piece of anchor rode also 40 feet long, then while at anchor, tie off the added piece to a stern cleat, this will keep the boat perpendicular or 90 degrees from the anchor load. enjoy the comfort.
Sailing on anchor
I had a similar problem on my 37c and it was solved with a triangular riding anchor hung on the back stay. Later when I added a dodger, I did not need the riding sail and the boat would point directly into the wind while at anchor
I had a similar problem on my 37c and it was solved with a triangular riding anchor hung on the back stay. Later when I added a dodger, I did not need the riding sail and the boat would point directly into the wind while at anchor
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