The Ultimate Boat Anchor Buying Guide
While ancient anchors were just rocks, we've come a long way since. Now, anchors are available in different shapes and materials to match your boating needs. Explore our ultimate boat anchor-buying guide so you can make an informed decision on finding the best anchor for your situation.
Understanding Different Anchor Types
Boat anchors are used for three main reasons — in an emergency, when in port or when at anchor. According to the American Boating Association (ABA), the best anchor depends on the use and the seabed in the area, as some anchors tend to sink into soft beds, while others latch onto rocks. Here are six common types:
1. The Fluke
Buying a fluke is a good investment for almost any boater. Each arm holds two pointed flukes that allow them to set perfectly every time, regardless of how you throw them. Sandy and muddy bottoms are the perfect match for this anchor. It sinks perfectly into the soft beds, and the pointed flukes dig into the ground. Additionally, they fold flat, making them easy to store. Considering their smaller size, flukes hold a surprising amount of power.
2. The Mushroom
If you're going out on a small boat like a canoe, the mushroom is a good pick. It isn't the most powerful, but it works on suction and is acceptable for soft beds. The mushroom is definitely not the best anchor but it's easy for beginners.
3. The Claw
The iconic claw shape has three claws that open quickly and dig firmly into the seabed. This anchor's unique shape allows it to create a tight grip on various bottoms, including sand and rock. Claws are extremely popular with recreational and power boaters.
4. The Plow
The plow is named after the field tool. It plants and replants easily, but it's quite bulky and long, so it's not the most convenient for everyday boaters. It's big and pointy form also makes it a hazard for scratching your boat.
5. The Delta
Delta anchors are one of the most popular boat anchors. They have a strong, winged plow design that sets quickly, which is handy when the current catches you out of nowhere.
The Delta anchor does well in windy conditions or when the tide switches. It has a high holding power, so you can take on the open waters even in the windiest of weather. It creates a strong pull in grass, weeds and soft bottoms, making it a versatile choice for everything from pontoons to power boats.
6. The Grapnel
The grapnel is a four-point, shovel-armed anchor. It's relatively affordable, but the shovels don't hold much sand, and it has very little grip. However, a grapnel can be perfectly fine for anchoring a small boat as long as the weather is calm.
Selecting the Right Material and Weight for Your Anchor
When finding the best anchor, considering the material and weight is pivotal to ensuring a firm grip and sufficient suction. Selecting an anchor that holds up in your preferred seabeds and is heavy enough for your boat size is also crucial.
Galvanized Steel vs. Aluminum
Galvanized steel is strong and doesn't lose grip easily. It's also pretty affordable for its quality, and it's usually more aesthetically pleasing than aluminum. Galvanized steel is heavy enough to anchor larger boats. However, it corrodes over time, especially when used on sandy bottoms.
Aluminum anchors are lighter and more resistant to sandy, salty seas. They're not as aesthetically pleasing or as durable as galvanized steel. Aluminum is also more expensive.
Generally aluminum anchors are the best for smaller boats used in sandy bottoms. Galvanized steel works for all boat sizes. It does corrode over time but is more economical in the long run.
Anchor Weight and Boat Size
The anchor weight should be enough to support the boat while still being convenient enough for you to hoist in and store. Note that it's not the anchor that holds the boat in place but the anchor rodes and chain, so the anchor weight should also be heavy enough to hold the chains down. You should also consider the following factors:
- How wide is your boat?
- Does it have a high freeboard?
- Do you plan on being in the water for a long time?
- Does your boating area have windy or rough conditions?
So, how do you know what size of anchor to choose? As a general rule, bigger boats need bigger anchors. However, water conditions and your boat's weight also affect the best anchor size. Look for an anchor that weighs at least 1/10th of your boat's weight.
Environmental Considerations for Effective Anchoring
Anchors build a firm grip on the seabed, but there are many different types of bottoms, each requiring a unique style of boat anchor. New terrain brings challenges like more ridges, unevenness or slippery textures.
Sandy Bottom
This bottom can be quite slippery for most anchors and paired with the currents, you risk stalling. With the wrong anchor, your boat could be dragged off or end up sitting on the shore. The Delta and claw anchors work well for the sandy bottom surfaces.
Rocky Bottom
Most anchors have difficulty gripping rocky bottoms because they don't get stuck. Note that if you're looking for a horizontal pull, avoiding coral spats and other rocky seabeds is probably best. The best anchor for this environment is the claw. It creates a tight grip even in this terrain.
Seaweed or Plant Bottoms
It's not advisable to boat in these areas as seaweed meadows should ideally be preserved. However, if you must anchor in a plant bottom in an emergency, you'll want an anchor that lays easily. The Delta works perfectly as it has a strong put and sets quickly.
Navigating Regulatory Compliance and Safety Measures
No boat anchor buying guide would be complete, without covering the ultimate safety measures and regulatory compliances. Anchors are mandatory for any recreational boat with a hull over 24 meters. Small boats carrying less than five people may not be legally obliged to have an anchor, but it's essential gear for foul weather or accidents. A secure anchor allows you to keep your boat away from potential dangers and stop if you need to wait for help while you're out on the water.
Find the Best Anchor at Fawcett Boat Supplies
Consider your boat size, length and weight, as well as the seabeds you'll be sailing through, to find the best boat anchor. Shop our selection of anchors from reputable brands, including Lewmar and Fortress. Shop our wide range of sailing hardware online at the best prices. We love keeping our customers on the water, so contact us if you're keen on finding top-quality products, need advice or are looking for a buying guide on boat anchors.
