We've noticed that our Hunter 29.5 (1994) swings excessively when at anchor. The swinging has occurred in various anchorages and depths. Does anyone else experience this and/or have suggestions? Is this just a design flaw?
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I know that over the years there have been a number of threads about this problem. Our H 34 wanders around on the anchor like a puppy who has lost the scent. I think it probably is related to having a fairly short fin keel. I have tried turning the rudder one way or the other with no success. Probably the only solution would be a small flat sail tied to the backstay to steer the boat into the breeze.
I know that over the years there have been a number of threads about this problem. Our H 34 wanders around on the anchor like a puppy who has lost the scent. I think it probably is related to having a fairly short fin keel. I have tried turning the rudder one way or the other with no success. Probably the only solution would be a small flat sail tied to the backstay to steer the boat into the breeze.
Archive Link
Molly, check out this link to an archive discussion. There are plenty others too. Mike D
Molly, check out this link to an archive discussion. There are plenty others too. Mike D
Not a design flaw
It is a characteristic of the boat, probably related to the size of the keel. It won't hurt anything. Just keep it in mind when anchoring.
It is a characteristic of the boat, probably related to the size of the keel. It won't hurt anything. Just keep it in mind when anchoring.
It's a windage issue
The high topsides of most modern boats act as a sail, especially forward, to cause sailing at anchor. Rich is right, a 'riding sail' set in the clew corner of your boom will reduce this. Setting an anchor off the stern will also help but may be problematic in a crowded anchorage as you won't shift with the breeze as readily and someone may swing into you. The keel probably isn't as big an issue unless there's significant current, at which point you've got a whole 'nother set of problems.
The high topsides of most modern boats act as a sail, especially forward, to cause sailing at anchor. Rich is right, a 'riding sail' set in the clew corner of your boom will reduce this. Setting an anchor off the stern will also help but may be problematic in a crowded anchorage as you won't shift with the breeze as readily and someone may swing into you. The keel probably isn't as big an issue unless there's significant current, at which point you've got a whole 'nother set of problems.
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