What does the "anchorage" symbol actually mean ?

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CPD

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There are places where one isn't allowed to anchor (harbour entrances, cabled areas, protected areas for example) and then there is everywhere else. I am researching possibilities for this year's holiday in the South West, and there are a number of places that look ok and I would attempt to get the anchor down (weather, wind and the other usual factors all considered of course), however they dont all show the anchor symbol. SO what does the symbol actually mean ? .......... That it has proven good/consistent ground for example or maybe that shelter is generally good etc ?. I should know this but haven't actually done a lot of anchoring in my time. Thanks for your help.
 
The anchor symbol on the chart means that it is a recognised area for safe anchoring under most conditions. e.g. the sea bed will hold the anchor well, no rocks just below the surface and a reasonable amount of shelter from prevailing winds and seas.
That doesn't mean you can't anchor in other locations check the other symbols on the chart for the type of material that comprises the sea bed and the other prevailing conditions compared to the shape of the shore.
 
Here's one that certainly had me fooled until I looked it up. I'll be impressed if you know without looking.
bang.jpg
 
Water flow / spring affects anchorage or marsh gas rising
 
Second guess. No discharge of sinks or toilets overboard in anchorage.
 
Silly symbol could indicate kelp or weed I guess. But you have knicked the OP's thread.

OP; Admiralty charts are drawn for big ships & the anchorage symbols are for their guidance. If you look at Yottie charts or pilot books you will find many more such symbols. Get yourself a good pilot book. Go to the local chandlers to pick a good one, then buy it off Amazon!
 
Searush said:
OP; Admiralty charts are drawn for big ships & the anchorage symbols are for their guidance.
Click to expand...

They also have a "half anchor" symbol for small vessel anchorages, don't they?

If you look at Yottie charts or pilot books you will find many more such symbols. Get yourself a good pilot book. Go to the local chandlers to pick a good one, then buy it off Amazon!
Click to expand...

I beg to disagree. That's all very well as a way of saving a couple of quid, but after the local chandler has gone bust, just how much help is Amazon going to be when you need a rigging screw in a hurry, or a couple of shackles, or a fender, or a pair of rowlocks or ...

I buy as much as I possibly can from my local chandlers in Kippford, and when they don't have it I use Largs, and when they don't have it I use Duncan's and only if they don't have it do I use the net.

And ... relax.
 
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