Anchoring - Liquid Edge Hunter Charter Handbook

Anchoring

Introduction
15. There are a number of locations for anchoring in Sydney Harbour – some are better than others
for a variety of reason. It is important to practice anchoring or serious damage can occur.
16. Factors for selecting locations for anchoring are:
Security – Many areas in Sydney Harbour have a mud bottom which is ideal.
View – There are some spectacular locations in Sydney Harbour such as Taronga Zoo,
Botanic Gardens, Bantry Bay, Vaucluse & Blackwattle Bay.
Comfort – Ferry wash or other waves can make an anchorage uncomfortable. One of the
quietest anchorages is Blackwattle Bay in front of the Fish Market.
Anchoring
17. The following rules apply when anchoring:
The engine must be running when using the anchor winch – it draws a lot of power.
Never leave the anchor loaded directly onto the winch, tie off the chain or rope to the cleat.
Ensure the length of rode is at least 3 times the depth of water – preferably 5 times.
Ensure enough swinging room is available
Ensure enough depth is available throughout the swinging arc – be aware of low tide.
Beware of catching fingers in the anchor winch, serious injury can occur.
18. The procedure for anchoring is:
Select the appropriate location, if necessary, take time to explore the anchorage area
Ensure the boat has come to a stop but the engine is running
Ensure the 'windless' switch is turned on and open the anchor locker (secure with bungy)
Release some chain & push the anchor forward so that it will lower under its own weight
Release enough chain/rope to match the depth of water and weather conditions
Secure anchor on the cleat so that the load is removed from the windlass
Put engine into reverse (slow) and take up the slack in the anchor
Watch transit marks (land objects) to determine why boat stops moving backwards
Place engine into neutral and the boat should be observed to 'spring' forward
The procedure for retrieving the anchor is:
Ensure the engine is running and 'windless' switch is on
Slowly recover the anchor (do not overload the winch)
Feed the anchor chain in the locker to stop it jamming (watch your fingers!)
Wash hands and anchor (take a bucket from the cockpit locker)
28 September 2009 9 Charter Handbook