Medway anchoring

[Gumpy]

This is not about the type of anchor. Its about how much rope and chain to carry.
The boat is a steel barge and 18m long, I have a 30kg danforth copy with 25m of 10mm chain and 20m of 14mm rope. I know that I will need to replace the rope but what length? I recon that 50m of 16mm nylon should see me OK.
Just to add to details I will not be out if the forecast is anything above a force 3-4 and only intend to anchor in places like Stangate creek but possibly overnight.

J

 

[Medskipper]

I would go for all chain! you do have a big heavy boat!
Tides can pull with a good deal of strength in this area and you will have at least 5m of water or more under you, I would put out 30m of chain at least with a vessel of your size and weight. I'm not sure that 16mm rope is heavy enough! if you must use warp I would use something heavier, but best by far is chain. You can get links that will join chain which are very good, so you don't have to discard your current chain.

Barry

 

[alec]

I'am no expert but the Marlow Rope book suggests 24mm nylon or polyester for a displacement boat of 20 tons.

I notice that most Thames barges seem to use all chain. They have loads of experience of anchoring in your neck of the woods.

Before you decide, might be worth asking them how they get on. A google search should lead you to them . T & S rigging in Maldon are very helpful and know loads about barges.

 

[TheBoatman]

I would agree with Medskipper here.
For your size/weight of vessel I wouldn't be happy hanging off either 14 or 16mm warp. I use 14mm on our 22' trot boat and it only weighs a couple of tons.

However from what you have said you've probably got enough weight in the anchor and chain to do most places on the Mudway.

The basic rule of thumb is 3 times depth as a minimum and 5 times if you feel twitchy.

Peter.

 

[PCUK]

Anchor is about half the required weight for that size of boat and all chain is essential.