Sea Anchor for Cruising

[GreggL]

I understand the purpose, but how relevant are these items in everyday coastal cruising? Is this something I should have, or is it more for passage making?

[colemj]

Many people don't have them even for long passage making. I think they are unnecessary for coastal cruising because the weather rarely gets bad enough, quick enough and one rarely has the sea room to deploy a sea anchor.

Mark

[belizesailor]

My 2c:

For general coastal cruising I no longer carry a sea anchor. I do carry a drogue, but that is because I'm on a cat. On a mono, for typical short cruising hops I would probably not even carry that.

For more serious offshore, maybe, depends upon the season and area of ocean. I've been in plenty of offshore heavy weather (up to Cat 1 hurricane force) and never been in a situation where I felt the sea anchor was necessary (...although I have thought about it once or twice), but it is at least reassuring to have the option when truly offshore (offshore lots of options are good). Plenty of others who have used them successfully in offshore heavy weather.

[bruce smith]

same feelings here. They need a lotta searoom. taking them in can be a nightmare.
And, you are a sitting duck for being run down while it is deployed. Of course, in deep blue water , in a bad storm , shipping will be avoiding the area. maybe not so much inshore/coastal.

[GreggL]

Good to know. Getting all my necessary safety gear in order. Thanks!