Solo Anchoring w/ No Windlass Tips?

[South of Heaven]

OP: If you don't have an anchor drag alarm on your electronics then download an app on your phone.

If you don't then you won't get any sleep at all....Unless you're an old salt but I don't think you are since you posted this thread. LOL!

I like using moorings when at all possible!

[ssobol]

I don't use an anchor alarm because then for sure I would not get any sleep, just be waiting for it to go off.

I just make sure the anchor is set well and then go to sleep. I also don't anchor where there are large current shifts or large tidal swings.

[thataway]

I have never used an anchor alarm. I have marked where the anchor was dropped when we got accurate GPS. I still take bearings on objects on shore, and record them, so I have references. (GPS makes this much better).

I set my anchor, with the boat's power in reverse, so I know it is well set. Some bottoms and holding grounds take several "Sets" to be sure that the anchor is properly set, and will not drag under conditions encountered.

I also always have a plan for alternate anchorages, or having to leave and "put to sea" if an anchorage becomes untenable. Don't be afraid to move at night--and have that move mapped out at least in your head, if it is necessary. Know what might happen, as the wind and waves (current also) shift, and if there is any risk for your boat.

I sleep well, but, I get up every couple of hours to check my bearings or GPS position and check the weather. Also to look and see how nearby boats are riding, and if there are any potential issues.

[Wandering Sagebrush]

Bob, I get up several times as well. Age related , and I also check location bearings.

[Kushtaka]

If the windlass is down I can haul my anchor from my pot puller in the cockpit. If I'm solo and without a motor to pull the anchor, I use the line running from my bow eye to my cockpit running through a regular 2" ring.

I drop my anchor from the cockpit, tie it to the ring at the desired scope, and let it go. It zips right up to the bow.

When it's time to pull I motor up and alongside it, let the ring come all the way aft, and then grab it. If I'm puling by hand I'll clip a buoy to the ring, run the free end of the rode through the ring (it would be easier with a anchoring ring that opens/closes, but I don't have one) and cleat it to the stern line, and motor the boat away and around the anchor. It comes right up, then I pull in the anchor by hand with the bulk of the weight on the float.

I use the same technique if I'm bringing the rode to the cockpit to haul up with the line hauler.

[thataway]

[quote="South of Heaven" I like using moorings when at all possible![/quote]

The reason I don't like moorings is that you have no idea what the terminal tackle's condition is. Have the shackles and chains been regularly inspected and replaced? What type of "anchor" is there?

I have seen moorings give way during storms. I have also moved mooring blocks which were in the tons of weight.

I know that my anchoring gear is in first class condition, and what to expect of it.

[colbysmith]

The nice thing about docks or shore ties, you don't have to worry about current, wind, anchor or mooring ball drag, anchor alarms or hourly position checks! Or standing on deck to drop or weigh anchor! (Of course, calm water is still preferred! ) Colby

[ssobol]

[colbysmith]

[ssobol]