Comments on: 9 Points to Remember When Dropping Ship Anchor in Emergency

By: Anish

Anish — Sun, 21 Oct 2018 10:12:50 +0000

In reply to Bluefin Sand. @Bluefin: Thank you for your valuable input.

By: Bluefin Sand

Bluefin Sand — Sat, 20 Oct 2018 00:18:57 +0000

In deep water you can still let the anchor by gravity, but walk the anchor first with few shackles by the gear then later on by gravity while controlling the speed with brake from time to time.

By: Morgan Okoro

Morgan Okoro — Fri, 22 Jun 2018 08:36:41 +0000

It’s only advised to drop by gear in deep waters due to the weight of the anchor in relation to the Depth of water. In shallow waters, gravity is recommended.

By: wangyung

wangyung — Sun, 21 May 2017 13:20:29 +0000

I think if let go by your way, the anchor will lost due to we often drop anchor by motor,not by brake. It will be too late if you want stop when the speed is too fast

By: parani.org

parani.org — Sun, 21 May 2017 12:42:42 +0000

Great post. Additionally, based on my experience, I would recommend:

a) Rule of thumb 1.5-2 shackles (as emergency anchoring would be in port waters, usually < 20 m)
b) Use both anchors to arrest the momentum. One anchor is seldom effective.
c) Train the Bosun the exact procedure of working the brakes. You may need more than one person to control the brakes when its under severe tension.
d) Discuss the procedure with the bridge team before arrival port. There is no time for calculations or specific orders when you have to anchor in emergency. Everyone should know what to do.
e) Bridge should check that you are not dropping it on a submarine cable, and
f) Stay clear of the windlass as there will be a lot of flying rust and mud.

Lastly, do not hesitate to anchor in emergency. It is better to lose the anchors than go aground or hit another ship on the wharf. Hope you don't have to use it, but a prudent mariner is always prepared.

By: Naresh Rajaram

Naresh Rajaram — Fri, 21 Oct 2016 02:52:13 +0000

Nice