Stuck Anchor? What to Do Before You Call a Diver
A snagged anchor can turn a relaxing day into a stressful one. Before you risk damaging your windlass, your deck hardware or yourself, there are a few safe things to try, and a clear point at which it is time to call a professional.
Why anchors get stuck
Anchors usually become stuck for one of a few reasons: the anchor or chain has wrapped around a rock, coral head or old mooring, the flukes are buried deeply in the seabed after a strong blow, or the rode has fouled on debris or another line. Knowing which one you are dealing with helps you decide what to try.
Safe things to try first
- Stop and take stock. Check the wind, current and what is around you. Do not rush.
- Motor slowly over the anchor. Take up the slack and position the boat directly above the anchor, then raise the chain as short as you can. Pulling straight up is often enough to break it free.
- Try different angles. If it won’t come up vertically, reverse the direction you pull from, or tow gently from another side so the anchor is drawn out the way it went in.
- Let the swell help. On a boat with some movement, use the rise of a wave to add lift, then take up the slack as the bow comes down. Do this gently and never snatch at the line.
- Use a trip line if you have one. A line attached to the crown of the anchor lets you pull it out backwards.
What not to do
- Don’t force it with engine power. Hard pulls with the engine can bend the shank, damage the windlass or bow roller, or part the rode.
- Don’t stand in line with a loaded chain or rope. Parting lines and chain can snap back with serious force.
- Don’t dive on it yourself unless you are trained and equipped, and never alone. Even in clear water, tangled lines and moving boats are real hazards.
When to call a diver
Call a professional if the anchor has not come free after a few careful attempts, if you suspect it is wrapped around a hazard or another vessel’s gear, if the chain is under heavy load, or if it is close to a mooring field, reef or other boats. A diver can see exactly how the anchor is caught, free it cleanly, and check for damage to the anchor, chain and seabed before you leave.
Prevent a repeat
Anchoring in clear sand where possible, avoiding areas with old moorings or debris, and attaching a trip line when conditions are marginal will lower the chance of a snag. Keeping your anchor and chain clean also helps. Our guide to anchor cleaning covers what to look for.
If you are stuck right now, contact us and we will do our best to help.
