YAAQ (Yet another anchor question)

labatt · #1 (**permalink**) 12-09-2006

I was about to go pick up a new Delta for our new boat and was reading L&A... there was an ad in there for the new XYZ anchor. I also recalled it being reviewed in PS and getting high marks, and they (XYZ) state that it has 500%-900% more holding power than all other anchors.

I've heard claims like these before, but this one seems backed up by the unscientific tests of PS. Does anyone actually HAVE an XYZ? I don't like to be the first one, especially not when it comes to whether I'll sleep well at night or not (or the health of my boat).

Thanks!

Chris

PBzeer · #2 (**permalink**) 12-09-2006

It is an intriguing anchor, hope someone has some experience with one. I'd be interested as well.

camaraderie · #3 (**permalink**) 12-09-2006

Labatt... I wouldn't want to be the first one either! The test results were impressive but were only done in soft mud. It didn't go up against the STEEL Spade (though the Aluminum one set more quickly and held almost as well) in the test or my trusty Delta and the lack of diverse bottom performance data says "wait and see" to me. It would be interesting to get Craig Smith's or Alain Poirot's take on these anchors vs. the competition.

Giulietta · #4 (**permalink**) 12-09-2006

Cam, I have noticed that you guys really worry with the anchors.

I do anchor when I cruise, specially in the BEAUTIFUL Culatra Island, that has 2 high tides and 2 low tides every day, with sometimes up to 5kts currents, and sometimes 20 to 25 kts winds, normally accross the currents. (that is one of the reasons it is so clean, above and bellow the water).

What I use there, (and that solves my anchor questions) is a TANDEM arragngment.

My main anchor is a 50lb plough anchor (http://www.jimmygreen.co.uk/chandler...gh_anchor.htm).
I have a second smaller anchor, which is a Brittany ( http://www.jimmygreen.co.uk/chandler...ny_anchor.htm).

What I do is tie the Britanny in front of the Plough, with around 9' sink rope, to the head of the plough and sink both. I use around 15 meters of chain, the rest is rope.

Never moved. You guys do that over there?? And what you call this arangment??

I use a have been using a

Goodnewsboy · #5 (**permalink**) 12-09-2006

Hi Giuletta:

We call that anchoring in tandem.

capn_dave · #6 (**permalink**) 12-09-2006

But where do you stowe the thing? It wont fit in any bow roller that I have, or anything else for that matter.

Fair Winds

Cap'n Dave

kavakava · #7 (**permalink**) 12-09-2006

Our h41 came with a Delta 45#, and our previous boat had a CQR 45#, both plows. In the muddy conditions in the Chesapeake, they both dragged in wind over 15+ knots, especially if the bottom was a little silty. I switched to a spade anchor, the Manson Supreme, similar to the Rocna, and have slept soundly since. Easy setting and stays set. I do plan, however, to go from 20' to 50' of chain, for we'll be cruising farther afield. Just one man's opinion.

camaraderie · #8 (**permalink**) 12-09-2006

Giu...it is a never ending debate but I much prefer using one anchor so it becomes a matter of having the RIGHT one for the conditions at hand...currently on board...a CQR (plow) a Delta and a storm sized Fortress. If I were selecting ONE anchor today it would be a Spade based on reviews from real cruisers anchoring in all kinds of conditions/bottoms...but who knows...the XYZ may be an improvement on all...Time will tell.

Craig Smith · #9 (**permalink**) 12-10-2006

SAIL testing:

On a size-for-size basis (the XYZ was only available in one size - small - after all):

Full testing on our website if you're interested in SAIL's comments on the XYZ.

Craig Smith · #10 (**permalink**) 12-10-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by Giulietta

What I use there, (and that solves my anchor questions) is a TANDEM arragngment.

My main anchor is a 50lb plough anchor (http://www.jimmygreen.co.uk/chandler...gh_anchor.htm).
I have a second smaller anchor, which is a Brittany ( http://www.jimmygreen.co.uk/chandler...ny_anchor.htm).

What I do is tie the Britanny in front of the Plough, with around 9' sink rope, to the head of the plough and sink both. I use around 15 meters of chain, the rest is rope.

Not to go off-topic but there are several problems I should draw readers' attention to here. One is to never use varying types in a tandem rig, especially those so different as a plow and Brittany. Secondly, the link between the two should always be chain, never rope. Thirdly it should be more than 9', more like a boat length. Finally, the tandem should NOT be attached to the head of the plow, that hole is for a trip-line. Giulietta is asking for trouble.

Furthermore, if one need do this in 25 knots of wind and/or 5 knots current, their is something seriously wrong with the primary anchor. Your primary should be adequate on its own in 99% of all situations - you get out the tandem when the storm's a-coming.