Module 3 - Anchorwork
Anchor Types
Different anchor designs work better in different seabed types. The CQR (plough) anchor performs well in sand and mud and sets reliably. The Bruce (claw) anchor is good all-round and self-rights easily. The Danforth (fluke) anchor has excellent holding in sand and mud but can struggle in weed or rock.
Modern anchors like the Rocna and Mantus have improved on older designs with faster setting and higher holding power per kilogramme. Whatever anchor you use, it must be heavy enough for the size of boat and conditions.
Key points
- CQR (plough) — reliable in sand and mud, widely used
- Bruce (claw) — good all-round, self-rights easily
- Danforth (fluke) — excellent holding in sand/mud, poor in weed/rock
- Modern designs (Rocna, Mantus) — fast setting, high holding power
- Anchor must be appropriate size and weight for the vessel
Sand and mud
Limitations: Can be slower to set than newer scoop designs
Mixed cruising bottoms
Limitations: Lower holding power than some modern anchors for the same weight
Sand and soft mud
Limitations: Can struggle in weed, shingle and rock
Fast setting in many common bottoms
Limitations: Still must be sized and used with enough scope
| Anchor type | Works well in | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| CQR / plough | Sand and mud | Can be slower to set than newer scoop designs |
| Bruce / claw | Mixed cruising bottoms | Lower holding power than some modern anchors for the same weight |
| Danforth / fluke | Sand and soft mud | Can struggle in weed, shingle and rock |
| Rocna / Mantus | Fast setting in many common bottoms | Still must be sized and used with enough scope |
Common questions
Which anchor type is best for sand and mud?
Danforth, CQR and many modern scoop anchors can all work well in sand or mud when sized correctly and set with enough scope.
Do modern anchors mean you can use less scope?
No. Modern anchors may set faster or hold well for their weight, but scope, depth, tide, seabed and swinging room still matter.
Why are weed and rock difficult holding grounds?
Weed can stop flukes digging into the seabed, and rock can foul an anchor or make holding unpredictable.
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Last reviewed: 22 June 2026 by Day Skipper Revision
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