Step 2 of 2•6 minutes read
Anchor Deployment and Recall
There are two main methods used for lowering the anchor:
The Walkback Method
The benefits of this method are:
- The Master is in full control.
- The weight of the Windlass is also controlled.
The Walk back method is recommended and used mostly on vessels above 100,000 GT.
The working principle is the same as the Let Go method, however, the cable is paid out using the windlass power at a fixed speed, therefore giving the crew and the Master better control.
This procedure is much slower than the Let Go method, but it is safer too. When preparing to walk down the anchor, the crew must ensure that the clutch is engaged and the break is on. The break is only loosened when the order to start lowering is given.
As the anchor touches the seabed, more length is paid, and the Master starts operating astern propulsion to develop a slight astern movement.
This movement will help to lay the cable nicely on the seabed as the flukes of the anchor dig into the sea bottom and prevent the anchor chain from piling up and creating potential kinks and twists.
Let Go Method
This method unlike the Walkback method, is a very quick procedure and therefore extreme caution must be exercised throughout the entire duration. It is not very commonly used nowadays due to the dangers that it might impose.
This method is used in a very wide range of vessels including smaller crafts and pleasure yachts up to larger vessels with tonnage less than 100,000 GT.
The Master and the crew need to be able to control the following factors during such a procedure:
- The weight on the anchor chain.
- The windlass brake holds power.
- The momentum of the vessel.
This is done to ensure that the anchor digs in and the chain is laid to extend backwards.
Introduction to Heaving the Anchor
When a ship is ready to heave up the anchor and proceed to sea or port, several preparations must be made before heaving up.
To be clear; the term "Anchor Clear" is used when the anchor is sighted out of the water.
Once the clearing of the anchor is done and reported to the bridge, the heaving-up procedure is started. Photo: Jörgen Språng
When heaving up an anchor, the anchor wash is started. The anchor wash aims to remove any mud or dirt which might have been caught on the anchor chain, whilst it was lying on the seabed.
Another important procedure during heaving up requiring the full attention of the person in charge of the anchoring party is that of keeping an eye during the entire procedure on the anchor chain as it is being heaved up. This is done to ensure that any twists or kinks are sighted immediately and in time to stop the windlass operator from continuing to heave up.
The anchor will be reported to be "Home" when the chain is in the locker and the anchor has reached its final destination.
The person in charge during an Anchoring Procedure. Photo: Jörgen Språng