Question 1

The crew are up and ready. What is the safest way to deal with the dragging anchor?

Accepted Answer

Start the engine first for control; bring in the anchor (or let out more chain if there is room and depth to do so safely, which can sometimes re-set it); if it needs lifting and resetting, move to a position with more swinging room and re-anchor properly, checking it holds before going back to sleep Having the engine running first gives control over the boat's position while dealing with the anchor — this is much safer than relying on the anchor alone while it is actively dragging. Sometimes letting out more chain (if depth allows) gives the anchor a better chance to dig in again; otherwise, lifting and re-setting properly in a position with more room is the right call. Cutting the anchor away should only be a last resort.

Question 2

The skipper wakes in the night to find the boat rolling and pitching far more than when they went to sleep, and a strong wind has picked up. What is the first thing to check?

Accepted Answer

Go on deck straight away and check whether the boat is still in the same position — use a fixed light or landmark ashore as a reference point to see if the boat has moved compared to where it was when the anchor was first set A sudden change in how the boat is moving, especially with rising wind, is exactly the kind of warning sign that should prompt an immediate check. Comparing the current position to a fixed reference point (a light, a headland, a moored boat) is the simplest way to tell quickly whether the anchor has held or the boat has dragged.

Question 3

The reference light ashore that was directly behind the boat earlier now appears to be off to one side. What does this tell the skipper?

Accepted Answer

The boat has moved from its original position — the anchor is very likely dragging and not holding properly in the stronger wind. This needs immediate action, not just continued watching A boat will swing a little around its anchor with wind and tide changes, but a clear, steady change in a fixed reference's bearing strongly suggests the boat itself has actually moved position — the anchor has likely lost its grip on the seabed (dragging) rather than just swinging normally. This calls for immediate action rather than more waiting.