Anchoring can be one of the more nerve-wracking parts of a sailing holiday, until you know the steps, and then it's genuinely straightforward. Here's how to do it calmly, every time.
Spending the night in a beautiful bay is one of the highlights of a sailing holiday. It makes sense: you're surrounded by nature, with a private “pool” and a spectacular view out to sea. The catch is that you need to anchor to get there. Is that difficult, or risky? Not at all. Follow these four steps and you'll be anchored without trouble, and sleeping soundly.
1. Find a good spot
Check the depth of the bay in advance so you know how much chain or anchor line to let out: the rule of thumb is three times the water depth. Current can mean you need a second anchor to avoid lying side-on to the swell when it comes from an awkward angle. The Mediterranean rarely sees strong winds, but waves can still be uncomfortable at anchor, so factor in wind direction when choosing your spot, and leave enough room around the boat to swing with the wind or current.
2. Prepare and divide tasks
Arrive prepared: the anchor should be clear of the locker, the chain free to run, and the electric windlass switched on if you have one. Talk through the plan with your crew and assign clear roles: who's steering, who's dropping the anchor, who's handling everything else.
3. Check the anchor is holding
With the anchor on the bottom and enough line let out, check it's properly set by reversing gently, just enough to test it, then a bit harder to confirm it holds firm.
4. Set an anchor alarm
Most yachts today have GPS on board, which usually includes an anchor alarm. Once activated, it will sound if the boat drifts further than expected from its anchored position overnight.
Tip: don't set the alarm radius too tight, or it'll trigger constantly as the boat swings naturally with wind or current.
