Anchor chain

jammin · **Joined:** 30 Oct 2006 15:40 **Posts:** 63

I am getting ready to load all chain on my electric windlass. Can one of you serious cruisers tell me how much chain you carry?

I am planning to move the old anchor (33# Bruce) with it's 50' of chain and 150' of rode to the port side, and install a 44# Bruce on the starboard side. I have 200' of (free) chain, but don't imagine I would ever need more than 100-150' for any anchoring situation in a protected harbor.

Before I cut the chain I would like some input.

Thanks,

Jerry
JAMMIN #226

dave · **Posted:** 02 Apr 2007 21:30

150 to 200 feet, if weight forward is not an issue I would keep the extra length. Any other opinions? Secure anchoring lets you sleep at night.I have a 65 lb Fishermans anchor and 90 ft of chain for serious comfort in shallow water.I can add nylon to that if I feel like it.

jammin · **Joined:** 30 Oct 2006 15:40 **Posts:** 63

Thanks, I think I will just load all 200'. Our boat is listing to port as I now have all the beer stored on the port side. Once I load the wine on the stbd side we should straighten up. As soon as the waterline disappears, we will be ready to cruise.

Of course once we return to racing all the chain comes off.

Jerry
JAMMIN'

dave · **Posted:** 04 Apr 2007 22:13

you must have your priorities.good choice.

Tortuga's Lie · **Joined:** 27 Oct 2006 10:32 **Posts:** 827

I just put in a windlass last year and switched to 5/16" high test chain. The weight will affect the waterline so think about where you will be cruising. Around the Chesapeake, you don't need all chain, but the all chain will help reduce scope and help keep our boat from sailing at anchor. I have 125' of chain and 100' of nylon to that. If I need extra scope for a really deep anchorage, I have 300' of nylon on my storm anchor with 30 of 3/8" chain. I keep both anchors on bow rollers with a divided anchor locker.

Tartan37.com

Anchor chain

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