Which anchor rope to choose?
You can choose from anchor ropes without weight, leaded anchor ropes and anchor ropes with chain. An anchor rope without weight is the most affordable option. A leaded anchor rope or a rope with a chain leader provides extra weight that helps keep the pull closer to the bottom, allowing the anchor to dig in more effectively. This also helps when anchoring temporarily in sheltered water.
Anchor rope diameter
The table below provides a general guide for polyester anchor ropes.
| Boat length | Anchor rope diameter |
|---|---|
| Up to approximately 6 metres | 10 mm |
| Up to approximately 8 metres | 12 mm |
| Up to approximately 10 metres | 14 mm |
| Up to approximately 11.5 metres | 16 mm |
| Up to approximately 13.5 metres | 18 mm |
The diameters shown are a guide. Strength can vary between different rope constructions. Do you have a relatively heavy boat or one that catches a lot of wind? You may need a thicker or stronger anchor rope than the table suggests based on boat length alone. Stronger winds or larger waves may also call for a stronger rope.
Anchor rope length
Add the height of the attachment point above the water to the water depth. For extended or overnight anchoring with an anchor rope and chain leader, allow approximately six times this combined height. For temporary sheltered anchoring in calm weather, while you stay on board, allow approximately three to five times this combined height.
The table below assumes an attachment point 0.7 metres above the water. The lengths shown include the anchor rope and any chain leader, rounded up to whole metres.
| Water depth | Anchor rope length for extended / overnight anchoring | Anchor rope length for temporary sheltered anchoring |
|---|---|---|
| 1 metre | 11 metres | 6 to 9 metres |
| 1.5 metres | 14 metres | 7 to 11 metres |
| 2 metres | 17 metres | 9 to 14 metres |
| 2.5 metres | 20 metres | 10 to 16 metres |
| 3 metres | 23 metres | 12 to 19 metres |
| 4 metres | 29 metres | 15 to 24 metres |
| 5 metres | 35 metres | 18 to 29 metres |
| 6 metres | 41 metres | 21 to 34 metres |
| 7 metres | 47 metres | 24 to 39 metres |
| 8 metres | 53 metres | 27 to 44 metres |
| 9 metres | 59 metres | 30 to 49 metres |
| 10 metres | 65 metres | 33 to 54 metres |
The lengths shown are a guide. Is the attachment point more than 0.7 metres above the water? You will need more rope. Stronger winds or larger waves require extra length. Always check that the anchor is holding.
Want to know which anchor suits your boat? See our advice and selection table on the anchors page.