5 Key Factors for Choosing the Perfect Anchorage

Finding the perfect anchorage is one of the most important skills for boat cruisers and Great Loopers. A well-chosen anchorage provides safety, comfort, and peace of mind, while a poor choice can lead to restless nights, dragging anchors, and even dangerous situations. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or new to anchoring, understanding these five key factors will help you pick the best spot every time.

Click Here to Download our Anchoring Essentials Checklist to make sure you never miss a step! 

1. Shelter from Wind & Waves

One of the first things to consider when choosing an anchorage is protection from wind, waves, and strong currents. A calm, well-sheltered spot ensures a comfortable stay and reduces strain on your anchor.

How to Evaluate Shelter:

✔️Check Wind & Wave Direction: Use apps like Windy, PredictWind, or NOAA forecasts to determine the wind patterns.

✔️Look for Natural Barriers: Islands, headlands, or tall trees can block wind and waves.

✔️Watch for Strong Currents: Some areas may seem calm but have tidal currents that shift dramatically.

💡Pro Tip: If the forecast shows a wind shift overnight, make sure your anchorage provides protection from all expected directions!

2. Good Holding Ground

Your anchor is only as good as the seabed it’s set in. The type of bottom material determines how well your anchor will hold and whether it’s likely to drag.

Best & Worst Holding Grounds:

✔️Best: Sand and mud (anchors dig in well and hold firmly).

❌Worst: Rock, grass, or loose shale (anchors struggle to set properly).

How to Check Holding Ground:

• Many chart apps (Navionics, Aqua Map) show seabed composition.
• Test your anchor by backing down on it with the engine(s) - if you slide backward, reset or move to a better spot.
• Talk to fellow cruisers - local knowledge is invaluable!

💡Pro Tip: If anchoring in weed or grass, try a plow-style or scoop anchor like a Rocna or Mantus, as they penetrate vegetation better than Danforth-style anchors.

3. Depth & Swing Room

It’s crucial to have enough depth for your boat’s draft and sufficient space for your boat to swing as the wind and tide shift.

How to Choose the Right Depth:

• Make sure you have at least 5-10 feet under your keel at low tide.
• Avoid anchoring in too deep water - it requires too much rode and reduces holding power.
• Use a scope ratio of 5:1 to 7:1 (rope length to depth) to ensure good holding.

Checking Swing Room:

• Your boat will move in a circle around the anchor with wind and tide shifts.
• Ensure you’re far enough from other boats, docks, or shallow areas.

💡Pro Tip: Use an anchor alarm app (Anchor Pro, Drag Queen) to notify you if your boat drifts too far.

4. Access to Amenities & Shore

If you’re staying at anchor for multiple days, consider how easy it is to access fuel, water, provisions, and dinghy docks.

Things to Look For:

✔️Dinghy dock or easy shore access

✔️Nearby grocery stores or restaurants

✔️Fuel docks and pump-out stations

✔️Wi-Fi or cell service (if needed for work or navigation)

💡Pro Tip: Some marinas allow anchored boats to use their amenities for a small fee - great for laundry, showers, or a night on land!

5. Weather & Tidal Considerations

Even the best anchorage can become unsafe if the weather changes. Sudden squalls, shifting tides, or unexpected storms can turn a calm bay into a nightmare.

What to Check Before Anchoring:

✔️Wind shifts: Will the anchorage remain protected overnight?

✔️Tides & currents: Some areas have extreme tidal swings—make sure you have enough depth at low tide!

✔️Storm risk: If bad weather is coming, consider moving to a marina or well-protected bay.

💡Pro Tip: Use NOAA weather reports or apps like Windy and Buoyweather to check hourly forecasts before anchoring.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the perfect anchorage is about more than just finding a pretty spot - it’s about safety, comfort, and peace of mind. By keeping these five factors in mind, you’ll ensure a restful, stress-free night at anchor wherever your journey takes you.

Want a FREE Safe Anchoring Checklist?

Click Here to Download our Anchoring Essentials Checklist to make sure you never miss a step! 

What’s your favorite anchorage? Drop a comment below and share your best anchoring tips!