Anchor chain length?

[FREEDOM!!!]

Anyone know how much anchor chain Grady's come with in their 23-27' boat lengths? I thought I read somewhere that the 235 comes with 50' of chain. The rule of thumb is generally 1 ft of chain for every ft of boat length. I was talking to someone with an older 235 recently who is having problems with his windlass. He said he only has 10' of chain. That is definitely not enough chain. Was hoping someone here just happens to know how much Grady usually supplies. I know I can go out, drop anchor and measure....but it's raining right now.

 

[DennisG01]

I don't know the answer... but in regards to the "problem" your friend is having... the length of chain has zero impact on a windlass "problem". And, yes, while a very general rule of thumb is 1' of chain per 1' of boat, it's by no means a "rule" or "required". One can anchor securely with all rope - you'd just need more scope. The advantage of chain is you can often get away with less scope and there is less chance of wearing the rope on rocks and such.

 

[DennisG01]

Oh... personally, with a windlass, I like having even more chain!

 

[seasick]

The rule of thumb is a guess at best. It's usually a decent guess in many recreation applications but in reality, the more chain the better and all chain is best (but nor practical for smaller hulls). The length of the chain is not the critical factor but rather its weight is. You need enough weight to hold the shank of the anchor on the sea floor while you set the anchor. Rope has some buoyancy and that can affect the laying down of the shank as you motor backwards to set the anchor. I often use second anchors that have no chain In calm conditions they work fine. You just need to lay out a higher ration of line length to depth

 

[Hookup1]

Depends on why you are anchoring. If you were doing serious wreck fishing or anchoring in a few hundred feet of water you wouldn't be using a windlass.

Most boaters don't need anything crazy. 20' of chain and 150' to 200' of rode would be fine.

 

[loubeer]

I'd suggest at least 30 - 35 feet of chain (I have 50 feet on my 330). Cheap insurance and peace of mind to have a little more chain than you think you'll ever need .