Anchoring in Designated Position Pre-planned. Intention is to have the ship’s head stopped over the ground over the centre of the designated anchorage.

ANCHORING

Role of OOW Assisting in planning approach. Giving courses and distances to anchoring position. Control and monitor engines. Check the ships speed. Responding to Master’s requests for information. Awareness of which anchor is being used and the shackles to let go,

Role of OOW When anchor let go, position noted. Swinging circle calculated based on number of shackles used. Level of readiness decided for engines. Position fixed regularly.

Anchoring in a Waiting Area Not possible to plan exact anchoring position in advance. Approach in crowded anchorage can be critical. OOW to maintain vigilant lookout. Monitor courses and engine movements. Align ship in relation to other ships at anchor. Approach astern of other vessels.

Anchoring in Shelter of the Land Usually occurs in rough weather. Aware of how the direction of the wind will veer or back. Distance off land critical factor. Engines kept in readiness. Anchor watch to monitor any drag.

Anchoring in a Tidal River Critical time when ship stops in water as a kick ahead will cause a sheer. Engines may be needed to prevent drag on anchor when tide changes.

Conducting an Anchor Watch Threats: Dragging due to wind and current. Another vessel bearing down on the ship at anchor. As the tide changes own ship turns one way and a neighbouring ship turns the other way creating a possibility of contact between the vessels. Own ship turns in such a way as to run aground.

Anchor Watch Use radar VRM on conspicuous points ahead and astern of the vessel. If ship appears to be dragging anchor inform Master immediately. Consider proximity of other vessels. Try to detect any threats early. Be prepared to use VHF if vessels can be positively identified. Suspect collision. 5 short blasts.

Successful Anchoring Good communications between parties. Plan verified by master. Assistance given during the approach with bearings and distances. Monitor speed of approach. Monitor course and approach bearings. Keep lookout for other vessels. Fix ships position when anchor let go and continue to monitor position.

Maintain vigilant anchor watch. Early assessment of any threats. Be prepared to use engines to prevent dragging. Be prepared to warn other vessels. Monitor shore based communications. Monitor the movement of small boats. Check anchor bearings regularly.

Protect the security of the vessel. Monitor the situation of the crew. Call the Master as soon as a potentially dangerous situation is identified.