Docks are sticky. It can be difficult to unplug the power and leave the security of lines tied to
firmly placed pilings. As I began to venture away from my slip, my confidence began to build, and a new world opened up.
The ability to pick a great anchorage comes at the cost of occasionally selecting a poor one. Over the past 25 years of cruising, I have honed my selection process to include the following.
Here are the ten characteristics that I look for when deciding where to drop the hook:
Holding. The most important! Sand and mud are the best. Grass and weed seabed are marginal. Rocky, shell and coral bottoms may damage gear and the seabed. Ideal depth would be between 7’ and 25’ at low tide. Always anchor for the predicted low tide so there are no midnight surprises.
Shelter from Wind and Waves This is usually weather dependent, so make sure to get updated weather reports while anchored. Choose a location with natural barriers such as islands, peninsulas or reefs to block wave action. Clocking wind can turn a pristine anchorage into a dangerous one very quickly. A calm anchorage means a good night’s sleep and less strain on your ground tackle.
PRO TIP: I will sometimes anchor in a rough place when I’m positive the wind will change to make it a protected anchorage. First of all because no one is there yet, and I would much rather have conditions improving than deteriorating.
Swing Room Unless anchored for a short time, the boat will swing around 360 degrees. Look out for permanent moorings (that have a very short scope) and any underwater obstructions.
Current Half of a knot or less is great. Up to one knot is okay, but don’t go for a swim! Over one knot will not allow the vessel to face the wind and waves and may become uncomfortable.
Bug Free! I have been chased away from some beautiful anchorages by a swarm of mosquitoes or biting flies. Note the time of year in your anchor rating notes. Some seasons may be better than others in a specific place.
Scenic Beauty Look for little to no development, pristine tree filled coves and palm tree lined beaches. A real bonus is to have an unobstructed view of the sunset or sunrise. That is why we are out here! Access to shore A town dinghy dock or public access beach to land a dinghy is quite a find. Especially when travelling with pets in need of a walk ashore. One of my favorite anchorages has a hiking trail that leads to a pristine beach on the ocean.
WIFI or Cell Signal I understand that we sail “to get away from it all” but sometimes a call from home or the office can give the peace of mind necessary to stay out a bit longer.
Ease of Shopping I travel well provisioned, but it sure is nice to be able to pick up some fresh veggies at near by market or a waterfront restaurant where I can spend the evening.
Occasionally, there is a marine chandlery within walking distance from the dinghy dock. When in need of a spare part or repair, notes on such locations are a great help. When cruising as a family, we keep careful notes of every accessible ice cream shop.
Exit Strategy Always have a plan to leave if conditions change and avoid tight anchorages where escape might be difficult. I’ve had to leave in the middle of the night a few times when an un-forecasted storm or wind shift changed a calm anchorage into a dangerous place.
So cast off those dock lines! Keep careful notes and build your confidence to discover new pristine anchorages of your own.
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