Anchoring question

[JamuJoe]

Has anyone used bow plus stern anchors with a big cat? In the western Caribbean, the Bahamian moor tends to result in a tangle of the two anchor lines when the wind shifts 180º overnight. Current isn't a big factor. We often anchor close to the reef or cay, and a stern anchor could provide a comfort factor. The cats aren't rigged for this, although I could envision a stern bridle, a chain rode and even a windlass on the stern bridge.

[BigCat]

I can hear the howling about the weight already, but this doesn't happen if you use an all chain rode. In coral waters, IMHO, that is the only safe way to anchor. And yes, I have done mucho anchoring in many places. You don't say what anchor you are using, but if your boat is wandering about at anchor, you'd best look into how good your anchor type is at resetting itself.

[JamuJoe]

Fully agree with an all-chain rode - wouldn't have anything else and am very satisfied with my Delta. Started cruising with a CQR and the setting and holding performance of the Delta is so much better. My query wasn't about wandering about at anchor, it was about 180º wind shifts that swing you closer to the reef than you want to be. Being pinned bow and stern is a tempting idea. I've got plenty of capacity to carry another rode and anchor for the stern.

[BigCat]

Originally Posted by JamuJoe

Fully agree with an all-chain rode - wouldn't have anything else and am very satisfied with my Delta. Started cruising with a CQR and the setting and holding performance of the Delta is so much better. My query wasn't about wandering about at anchor, it was about 180º wind shifts that swing you closer to the reef than you want to be. Being pinned bow and stern is a tempting idea. I've got plenty of capacity to carry another rode and anchor for the stern.

I'd say the danger there is ending up broadside to the wind if it should shift to abeam. That's why the Bahamian moor, though there is obviously a potential problem in terms of fouling your rodes on each other.