At its most basic, an anchoring system comprises an anchor, a chain, and a suitable rope. Collectively, the chain and rope are known as the ‘rode.’ The choice of anchor size and the chain’s length and weight largely depend on the boat’s size. From a one-man dinghy to a colossal supertanker, every vessel needs some form of anchoring capability.
In smaller vessels, anchors might be manually deployed. But as many experienced boaties know, manually retrieving an anchor together with a length of chain can be hard work. For larger vessels, manual retrieval isn’t just strenuous, it can be downright impossible. This is where mechanical winches come into play.
Most recreational boats employ a windlass-style anchor winch. This type of winch features a toothed wheel known as a ‘gypsy’ that can manage both chain and rope. Depending on the design, windlasses
