Module 3 - Anchorwork
Weighing Anchor: How to Recover an Anchor Safely
Quick answer
To weigh anchor, motor gently toward the anchor as the crew takes in rode, keep the load low, break the anchor out vertically, then secure it before getting underway.
- Do not use the windlass to drag the boat forward.
- Communicate clearly between helm and foredeck.
- Secure the anchor and rode before leaving the anchorage.
To weigh (recover) the anchor, motor slowly forward while retrieving the cable. This takes the load off the cable and makes retrieval easier. When the cable is vertical (the anchor is directly below the bow), it should break free from the seabed. If it doesn't, try motoring slowly over the anchor and past it, then pulling from the opposite direction.
Wash mud and weed off the anchor and cable as it comes aboard. Stow the anchor securely — a loose anchor on deck is a serious hazard.
Key points
- Motor forward slowly while retrieving cable
- Pull vertically to break the anchor free
- If stuck: motor over and pull from the opposite direction
- Wash and stow anchor securely
Common mistakes
- Overloading the windlass by pulling the boat toward the anchor.
- Letting the bow blow off while the anchor is still partly loaded.
- Leaving the anchor unsecured after recovery.
Common questions
What does weighing anchor mean?
Weighing anchor means recovering the anchor and cable so the boat can get underway.
How do you break out a stuck anchor?
First motor gently up to the anchor and lift vertically. If it will not break out, try easing past it and pulling from the opposite direction without overloading the windlass or bow fitting.
Should the windlass pull the boat up to the anchor?
No. Use the engine to move the boat gently toward the anchor, then use the windlass or crew to recover slack cable rather than dragging the boat by the gear.
Keep revising this topic
Last reviewed: 5 July 2026 by Day Skipper Revision
Practise anchorwork
The anchorwork module connects anchor choice, scope, holding, recovery, and safe anchoring technique.