10 Anchoring Etiquette Tips

Being able to anchor almost anywhere is awesome but in order to keep other cruisers, homeowners, and business owners happy it is important to follow the anchoring etiquette tips mentioned below.

White Sound Anchorage, Green Turtle Cay

1. Avoid anchoring too close to other cruisers. This is more than just a privacy issue but also a safety concern. “Too Close” is very relative to the anchorage. If you have room use it. If not just make sure you are far enough that all boats are clear in all directions of each other.
2. Before you drop the hook take a look at how others in the anchorage are anchored. If everyone is on a Bahamian moor or single hook, follow suit. This way everyone swings the same way at relatively the same length.
3. Watch where you drop your anchor. If you drop it and happen to grab someone else’s chain you could both be in trouble.
4. Stay with your boat for a little while after you drop. Watch where you swing and make sure you are hooked well and you do not swing into other cruisers. We like to back down hard and always be on the boat when we know we are going to get a hard wind switch.
5. Keep your dinghy as close to the boat as possible. This clears up more room for possible neighbors. It also allows easier passage for other dinghies at night.
   

   Although this photo is of a mooring field it gives a great example of appropriate space and swing room.

6. Be helpful to new-comers. Let them know where holding is good or bad and any pointers you may have about the area. They are going to be your new neighbors after all.
7. Anchorages are meant to peaceful places. Avoid running generators and engines early morning and at night (if at all). If you have a pup try to keep them quite as much as possible.
8. Use your holding tank. Not only is it the law in most places but it is nice to jump off and go for a swim without having to worry about who’s poo you are swimming in.
9. Make sure your anchor light is on at night. This helps all other boats trying to navigate the area.
10. Try to keep your boat’s appearance as nice as possible. No one wants to look at a derelict looking boat. But a clean and tidy boat is always easy on the eyes.

Keeping these tips in mind while anchoring will help you have a better experience no matter where you are cruising.

Staying with the boat to make sure we are set!

Thanks for reading.

Sierra:)