
General Mooring, Anchoring and Sailing Knowledge
Anchoring is generally allowed on any ocean bottom for short periods of time. The use of a classic anchor or a (lunch hook) is not suggested for keeping the boat safe for long periods of time.
Anchoring Terms
Ground Tackle: This is the general term for anything that is used to install and secure an anchor. This includes the anchor, anchor line, shackles, cleats and other ropes and chains.
Mushroom Anchor: These anchors look like a mushroom and are a good choice when it comes to dropping mooring systems. They are heavier than a pyramid anchor for the same holding power.
Pyramid Anchor: The pyramid anchor is generally thought of as the most cost-effective anchor for mooring systems.
Helical Screw Anchor: These are a modern style of anchor that uses screws to attach itself to the ocean floor. These are very strong but do come at a high installation cost.
Anchor Line: The anchor line, or light chain, is what connects a mooring ball or the boat to an anchoring point.
“Tripping an Anchor”: This is the method to release an anchor that is used by driving the boat in the opposite direction that the anchor is placed.
Stock: The stock is on the “top” of the anchor and is connected to the shank. The stock turns the arms in such a way that the anchor will dig into the ocean floor.
Crown: The crown of the anchor is the crest of the anchor which would touch the ground first when the anchor is deployed.
Shank: The shank of the anchor is the length of steel that creates the “spine” and runs through the body of the anchor.
Arm: The arms of the anchor extends out from the shank and is the primary device that digs into the ocean floor.
Fluke: Flukes were added on anchor arms to further enhance the power-to-weight ratio and provide improved holding capacity.

Further Resources and Links
“Chapman’s Piloting and Seamanship, Chapter 9, Permanent Moorings” is a brief, yet rich and highly focused source of information regarding permanent anchoring; it has been used as the golden standard in professional mooring installations for decades.
“Moorings: A Preliminary Guide to Mooring Systems, Mooring Choices and Mooring Selection” is an invaluable source of information regarding mooring solutions, their feasibility and environmental impact.
Constructing a Permanent Mooring is a comprehensive guide that covers most mooring options commercially available, as well as detailed advice on how to construct one’s own mooring from scratch.
Mooring Basics – How to Install a Permanent Mooring offers an in-depth examination of a mushroom-based permanent anchor solution, targeted at the DIY enthusiast.
Mooring Chain Check-up at 12 Months is an article that discusses different types of chain used for ground tackle and the effects of the marine environment on them.
Elastic Mooring Systems is an eco-friendly mooring solution based on floating elastic rodes which protect the sea-bottom, especially in sensitive bio-environments.
Helix Square/Round Shaft Anchors is a producer of Helix permanent anchors of excellent quality, proven to withstand serious challenges.
Habitat Mooring Systems is an ecological mooring system based on cavity/tunnel engraved cement blocks that boost marine biodiversity.
Hazellet Marine offers a range of mooring products including elastic rodes, floats, bridles and pennants.
Aqualine is an industrial supplier of temporary and permanent anchoring solutions for large scale applications.
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