Sailing Kittiwake - How to Anchor in High Winds

We’ve all had that feeling of being pushed about, knocked around and shoved back and forth by the wind. I mean, in the UK minus the past few months of abnormally warm weather, it’s almost a daily occurrence! But imagine trying to stabilise a boat in such strong winds. Impossible, right? Well, wrong. That’s why we have Ryan from Sailing Kittiwake, my friends, to talk us through how to anchor in high winds…

First things first, you want to be in a good anchorage. Ryan advises choosing your anchorage wisely, which is exactly what they did on the coast off Villasimius, as it was well-protected from the west-northwest winds.

In strong winds, Ryan suggests digging the anchor in with full reverse. It’s also a great chance to get the snorkel out and check that the anchor has set well enough to hold in the winds.

Taking down the cockpit cover is a good idea as the canvas can add to more windage and noise. As well as this, remember to remove any items from the cockpit that might blow away, such as towels.

Dragging is obviously something to look out for – especially with boats who anchor upwind of yours – as this could cause them to drag back onto your boat and dislodge its anchor.

 

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