How to Choose a Windlass

Many modern boats are equipped with a windlass.

Traditionally, boaters hauled anchors on and off the vessel by hand. This task was both physically demanding and potentially dangerous, especially with a slippery boat deck or poor weather conditions. Many modern boaters use a windlass to make this task easier. The windlass winds the anchor rope or chain up into a coil, allowing boaters to hoist or lower the anchor more safely. To choose the right windlass for your boat, consider factors such as size, orientation, design and operation.

Instructions

1. Match the windlass to your anchor chain or rope. Windlasses come in two basic styles, including gypsy and drum models. Drum windlasses are designed for use with ropes only and cannot be used with anchors that are hoisted using a chain. Gypsy windlasses can be used with either ropes or chains, but must be sized properly based on the diameter of the rope or the thickness of the chain.

2. Decide on the best orientation for your windlass. Horizontal units sit parallel to the boat deck, while vertical units sit perpendicular to the deck. According to the "Mad Mariner," horizontal windlasses are best for those who want to make as few holes in the boat structure as possible. They are surface-mounted and require only a few mounting screws, however the majority of the operating components sit exposed above the deck. Vertical windlasses require a large mounting space within the boat structure, but are better protected from wind and weather.

3. Find the right size windlass for your boat. Most windlass manufacturers provide sizing charts to help you choose, or you can calculate based on the weight of your anchor and chain/ropes. The "Mad Mariner" suggests multiplying the weight of your anchor and rope/chain by three to find the correct windlass capacity. For example, if your anchor weighs 200 pounds and all associated chains total 100 pounds, you'll need a windlass rated to handle up to 900 pounds.

4. Explore your power options. Windlasses can be manual or electric powered. For electric units, look for a windlass with a dedicated battery. If you choose to power a windlass off your main boat battery, you'll need to run heavy cables from the battery to the windlass. A unit with a dedicated battery is easier to install and will allow you to avoid these extra cables.

5. Check operational features. A windlass may feature both "power up" and "power down" operation, or a "power up" option with a "freefall" release. If you choose a unit with a "freefall" release, you'll need to go out on deck and manually release the windlass to lower the anchor. If your windlass has a full-power operation, you can hoist or lower the anchor with the push of a button. No matter which of these options you choose, make sure the windlass has an optional manual operating mode so you can still use it during a power failure.

6. Compare capstan and low-profile designs. Capstan windlasses have an extra spool at the top to accommodate a second rope or chain. They offer more flexibility than low-profile models, but may also act as a trip hazard because they stick-up higher off the deck. Low-profile models offer a sleek finish, but can't accommodate a second rope or chain.

References

• Mad Mariner: Installaing a Windlass
• Imtra Marine: How to Choose an Anchor Windlass
• Go2Marine: Choosing Your Windlass