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    Recommended Anchor, Chain, and Rope Sizes for Yachts

    Written by
    Master Sailing Malta Team
    Published on

    Recommended Anchor, Chain, and Rope Sizes for Yachts


    ⛵ 1. Anchor and Rope Recommendations by Yacht Size

    Use the following guide based on your yacht’s LOA and Thames Tonnage:

    ✔ 7.3 – 9 m, 4 – 8 tons – 55 m of 13 mm nylon/polyester + 5 m of 8 mm chain; 1 x 23 kg (primary), 1 x 10 kg (secondary)

    ✔ 9 – 11 m, 8 – 12 tons – 70 m of 16 mm nylon/polyester + 7 m of 11 mm chain; 1 x 27 kg (primary), 1 x 16 kg (secondary)

    ✔ 11 – 13.5 m, 12 – 18 tons – 90 m of 16 mm nylon/polyester + 7 m of 11 mm chain; 1 x 34 kg (primary), 1 x 20 kg (secondary)

    ✔ 13.5 – 16.5 m, 18 – 30 tons – 120 m of 19 mm nylon/polyester + 7 m of 13 mm chain; 1 x 50 kg (primary), 1 x 25 kg (secondary)


    🌊 2. Chain Size Guidelines

    Choose the correct chain based on diameter, weight, and load capacity:

    ✔ 8 mm – 48 kg per 30.5 m, 862 kg Working Load Limit, 20 m requires 0.01 m³ storage

    ✔ 11 mm – 98 kg per 30.5 m, 1,590 kg Working Load Limit, 20 m requires 0.021 m³ storage

    ✔ 13 mm – 122 kg per 30.5 m, 2,040 kg Working Load Limit, 20 m requires 0.03 m³ storage


    🛠 3. Additional Notes for Selecting Anchoring Gear

    Keep these factors in mind for safe and effective anchoring:

    ✔ Anchor Type – Adjust weights for different styles; add ~20% for Fisherman’s anchors.

    ✔ Rope Material – Use nylon (polyamide) or polyester (Dacron/Terylene) for shock absorption; avoid floating polypropylene.

    ✔ Over-Engineering – For cruising, err on the side of heavier gear; racing or inshore boats can use lighter setups.

    ✔ Thames Tonnage – Always calculate accurately; it affects gear sizing.

    ✔ Storage & Weight – Consider locker space and total weight when selecting chain and anchors.


    🚀 Final Thoughts

    Choosing the right anchor, chain, and rope ensures safe anchoring and peace of mind. Following these recommendations will help your yacht perform optimally, providing confidence whether cruising or mooring in unfamiliar waters.