July 25th, 2025
When I first bought my boat, I knew I was stepping into a world of adventure — but also a long list of projects waiting to be tackled. One of the first things that caught my attention was the anchor setup. The boat came with a tiny anchor and an old manual winch that hadn’t been used for years.
The reason was simple: the previous owner kept the boat in Bonaire, where anchoring is not allowed, so the system was more decoration than function.
Once I started preparing the boat for real cruising, I realized this setup wouldn’t do. I invested in a new Rocna anchor — solid, reliable, and built for serious holding power — along with a brand-new chain. But with a bigger anchor came a new challenge: the old winch simply couldn’t reach far enough to pull the chain all the way up.
That meant one thing — a full anchor locker rebuild. The winch had to be moved further aft, and since the old manual model was outdated, I decided to upgrade to a new electric windlass. To install it properly, I needed to reshape the locker, build a new mounting base, and ensure everything aligned perfectly with the chain path.
It’s been a rewarding project — a mix of grinding, sanding, cutting, and plenty of patience. Each step brings the system closer to being ready for real anchoring — the kind where you drop the hook in turquoise water and trust your gear to hold through the night.
Like most boat projects, it’s not just about the work — it’s about building confidence, self-reliance, and a stronger connection with the vessel that carries me across the sea.
Boat projects are never-ending, but there’s something satisfying about each small victory.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a date with the grinder, epoxy, and my anchor locker. Wish me luck.
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Cheers
Paul – SY ANIMA