The Joy of Anchoring

During our cruising experience in the North Channel and Georgian Bay we have anchored many times. In most cases it is a fairly simple operation and goes pretty well. In other cases, we must try more than once to find either a good hold (firmly hooked to the bottom) or find just the right spot so we don’t swing into another boat or the shore. Like landing an airplane, anchoring into the current or forecasted wind direction is advised. Where possible we like to tie a stern line to shore to eliminate any swinging. This involves launching the dingy and towing a line to shore where a suitable tree or rock must be found to attach to. More boats can be anchored in the same harbor with the latter technique. Most anchorages up in these waters are big enough for many boats swinging or tied to shore. Once established at anchor a period of time must pass where the security of the anchor must be verified so that a “dragging” situation does not occur when winds increase. Using a rock or tree on shore off each side of the boat as a reference point is the way to determine if the vessel is moving. The picture below shows a crowded anchorage in Marianne Cove (26 boats including us) with all but a couple of boats tied to shore.

The really fun side of anchoring is watching other boats applying their skills while you’re sitting comfortably observing with a favorite beverage in hand. Most boaters up here are pretty adept at anchoring but a few are not and there’s usually a lot of “command” barking going on between the crew and skipper when things are not going well. As a boat enters an anchorage, the “survey” process begins which involves cruising around the harbor like a dog trying to find just the right spot to lay down. Weaving between existing boats at anchor the new boat finally makes a call and claims their spot among the other vessels. Many boats “raft up” to other boats so access to their traveling companions is just a hop away. We’ve watched many boats do this operation most have no real issues.