Boat anchoring is an essential skill for any boater, regardless of experience level. Whether planning a day trip or embarking on a long journey, proper anchoring techniques can make all the difference in ensuring the safety and stability of a vessel.
Knowing the anchoring basics, such as choosing the right anchor for the job and properly deploying it, will help protect your boat from damage or drifting. This guide will discuss advanced boat anchoring skills, such as anchor composition, setting multiple anchors, and riding out a storm at anchor. Read on for a deep dive into the world of anchoring to enhance your skills as a boater.
7 Popular Types of Boat Anchors for Secure and Stable Mooring
The type of anchor used plays a critical role in keeping the boat stable and secure, depending on the sea bed’s type and the boat’s size. Below, we’ll briefly examine seven popular types of boat anchors commonly used by boaters for safe and reliable anchoring in different water conditions.
Types of Anchors
- The claw anchor is the most popular anchor style and can be used in various seabeds. It has a claw-like design and is typically made of galvanized steel, making it resistant to corrosion.
- The delta anchor is a dependable anchoring solution. This style is known for its angular design and exceptional holding power. It’s beneficial when quick anchoring is necessary due to its quick-setting properties.
- The lightweight fluke anchor, also known as the Danforth anchor, is excellent for soft seabeds such as sand and mud. Danforth anchors are designed as a two-piece, welded anchors. Fortress anchors are a popular alternative for boaters who require a sturdy Danforth-style anchor but prefer a non-welded option, as they’re less susceptible to breakage.
- The grapnel anchor is versatile with multiple hooks, making it ideal for rocky seabeds. In addition, the grapnel anchor’s compact size and ease of use make it an excellent option for smaller boats or as a second anchor for larger vessels.
- The mushroom anchor has a large, round head and is ideal for soft mud or silt seabeds. Its weight ensures that it stays buried in the ground, providing a secure holding.
- The plow anchor, or the CQR anchor, has a pointed tip and curved shape, making it ideal for strong holding power in various seabeds.
- The Rocna anchor is a relatively new type of anchor that is gaining in popularity. The Rocna’s telltale concave shape and roll bar provide exceptional holding power and versatility in a variety of seabeds.
New Materials Used to Make Anchors
Anchors are commonly made of heavy-duty steel, but some, like Fortress anchors, are made of an aluminum-magnesium alloy. It’s a common misconception that anchors primarily operate by weight. However, the functional impact of Fortress anchors is tied to their design instead of weight. These anchors are relatively lightweight but still do an effective job. For instance, a four-pound Fortress FX7 anchor can hold a vessel between 18 and 28 feet long. Additionally, the lightweight construction of Fortress anchors makes them easier to handle and maneuver, which is particularly important when deploying or retrieving the anchor.
Comparing Fortress, Guardian, and Commando Anchors: Design, Function, and Warranty
Fortress and Guardian are two popular anchors designed for different needs and budgets. Both anchors are made of an aluminum-magnesium alloy and work off of the same design, which sets them apart from typical Danforth anchors with welds that could break. They are both manufactured in Florida using aluminum sourced in the U.S.
The Fortress is considered a premium anchor with a more polished finish, including a painted shank and the Fortress logo. It also has two fluke angle settings, including a 32-degree setting and an additional 45-degree setting. The 45-degree setting is particularly beneficial when anchoring in a soupy, muddy bottom. The Fortress is also covered by a lifetime warranty, which makes it an attractive option for boaters who want peace of mind.
On the other hand, Guardian is an economy-priced anchor that’s designed for boaters who are looking for a budget-friendly option. It has a similar design to the Fortress but with a simpler finish. The Guardian only has the 32-degree setting and comes with a one-year parts-only replacement warranty. Both models have replaceable parts, meaning boaters can quickly repair or replace damaged components without purchasing a new anchor. As a result, both anchors are long-term, cost-effective options.
In summary, the choice between Fortress and Guardian anchors depends on the individual boater’s needs and budget. The Fortress is a premium option with a lifetime warranty and an additional fluke angle setting, while Guardian offers an economy option with a one-year parts-only warranty. However, both anchors share the same durable material and innovative design that distinguishes them from traditional Danforth anchors.
| Fortress Anchor | Guardian Anchor |
| Material: Aluminum-magnesium alloy | Material: Aluminum-magnesium alloy |
| Finish: More polished, painted shank, and logo | Finish: Simpler |
| Fluke angle settings: 32-degree and additional 45-degree setting | Fluke angle settings: 32 degrees only |
| Warranty: Lifetime | Warranty: One-year parts-only replacement |
| Replaceable parts: Yes | Replaceable parts: Yes |
Secondary Anchoring: When and Why It’s Necessary
When boating in open waters, unexpected issues, such as inclement weather or engine failure, may require the use of a second anchor. To ensure the safety of everyone on the boat, it’s a good idea to have an extra anchor on board, such as a storm anchor, which is slightly larger than a regular anchor. Preparation is key, and having multiple anchors on board is especially important for larger vessels or longer trips. Secondary anchoring allows boaters to secure their boat and avoid drifting, which can be hazardous in severe weather conditions.
