Learning how to anchor securely, easily and without a lot of fuss and bother is really the art of becoming good sailing and cruising partners…here’s Tip Number 1.
We have all witnessed raised voices from other yachts when they have been dropping or retrieving their anchor, maybe even observed a full-on argument. On one occasion we saw a “discussion” that got so heated, the woman on the bow jumped off and swam to shore, shouting a few expletives as to what the skipper could do with his anchor.
Entering and leaving an anchorage is one of the most stressful parts of sailing, especially if it is a “new to you” anchorage. You can start to feel anxious…so this is the time you will need a good solid plan, clear instructions and thorough preparation… BEFORE… going into action. After all, you still want to be on good terms with your shipmates, especially if you sail with your partner.
At Seahorse Sailing School we teach the use of hand signals when dropping or raising the anchor… friendly hand signals of course… there should be no need for any verbal communication at all once the anchor deployer is at the bow…none! Read more.
