Anchor

Kotwica SS Poznań

Amoco Cadiz anchor

Ankkuri Kirjurin kärjessä 1

Soldek098

Stockless anchor 2 NT

Anchor is a device, usually made of metal, used to connect a vessel to the bed of a body of water to prevent the craft from drifting due to wind or current. The word "anchor" comes from the Latin word ancora, which itself comes from the Greek word ἄγκυρα (ankura). Anchors can either be temporary or permanent. Permanent anchors are used in the creation of a mooring, and are rarely moved; a specialist service is normally needed to move or maintain them. Temporary anchors, which are more common, are used by vessels that need to moor in the open water temporarily.

Types of Anchors

There are several types of anchors, each designed for specific seabed conditions and vessel sizes. The most common types include:

• Fluke Anchor: Also known as the Danforth, it features two large flat surfaces that dig into the seabed for a secure hold. It is lightweight and stores compactly, making it popular among small to medium-sized boats.
• Plow Anchor: Shaped like a farmer's plow, it is designed to swivel and dig into the seabed as force is applied. It is effective in a variety of seabed conditions.
• Mushroom Anchor: Suitable for long-term moorings for small boats in soft mud or silt. Its holding power comes from its shape, which allows it to bury itself in the seabed.
• Admiralty Anchor: Recognizable by its traditional shape with two flukes and a stock at the top, this type of anchor is mostly used decoratively in modern times.
• Grapnel Anchor: A small, lightweight anchor with multiple hooks, often used for temporary moorage of small boats and as a part of the permanent anchor system for larger vessels.

Anchor Components

An anchor's main components include:

• Fluke: The part of the anchor that digs into the seabed.
• Shank: The long stem of the anchor that connects the fluke to the chain or rope.
• Crown: The part of the anchor where the shank and flukes meet.
• Stock: A bar that runs perpendicular to the shank, stabilizing the anchor and ensuring the flukes dig into the seabed.
• Rode: The chain, cable, or rope that connects the anchor to the vessel.

Anchoring Process

The process of anchoring involves several steps: 1. Choosing an appropriate anchorage location considering depth, seabed composition, and weather conditions. 2. Lowering the anchor to the seabed while slowly moving backward to lay out the rode. 3. Setting the anchor by applying a gentle reverse thrust until the anchor digs into the seabed. 4. Confirming the anchor is set by checking for movement over time.

Safety and Regulations

Proper anchoring is crucial for the safety of the vessel and its occupants. There are regulations and guidelines in place, governed by local, national, and international authorities, to ensure safe anchoring practices are followed. These regulations often specify the types of anchors to be used under certain conditions, the length of the rode, and the procedures for anchoring in different environments.

Environmental Considerations

Anchoring can have significant impacts on the marine environment, particularly on sensitive seabed ecosystems such as coral reefs. Many areas now have restrictions on anchoring, and boaters are encouraged to use mooring buoys or eco-friendly anchors that minimize damage to the seabed.

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