Anchoring operations within vessel and environmental limits
What is being checked
The inspector is checking whether the company has defined usable anchoring limits, whether the bridge and forecastle teams understand them, and whether a recent operation was planned, recorded and carried out within those limits. The windlass, anchor, cable, stopper and power arrangements must support the paper trail.
Ready onboard
0/8 completePractice questions
Answer aloud, then open the preparation point.
1What is the vessel's maximum normal anchoring depth, and where is it stated?
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
2Which factors would make you reject this anchorage before arrival?
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
3What wind or sea condition requires the vessel to leave the anchorage?
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
4Show the checks completed on the windlass brake, stopper and power supply before the last operation.
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
5How would you recognise and respond to a dragging anchor?
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
6Show how the last anchoring operation is reflected in the bridge log and bell book.
Use the vessel’s approved procedures, records and fitted-equipment instructions. Demonstrate the evidence rather than giving only a general answer.
Where an observation may arise
Procedure or checklist does not define depth, environmental limits, team composition, supervision or equipment checks.
Anchorage selection does not address seabed, density, hazards, swinging room or weather.
Master or deck officer cannot explain the vessel-specific limits or departure trigger.
Recent anchoring records are missing, incomplete or inconsistent.
Windlass, brake, anchor, cable or stopper is defective, or brake-setting checks cannot be demonstrated.
Anchor is not available for emergency use or port lashings conflict with the required readiness state.
Master's practical note
Do not prepare this question only at the windlass. Take one recent anchoring event and follow it from the bridge appraisal to the forecastle checks, the actual environmental conditions, the amount of cable used, the anchor watch and the final weighing record. If the procedure gives a departure limit, the Master and watchkeepers should know it without searching through several manuals.
Equipment boundary and references
Equipment boundary: Windlass brake checks, local controls and stopper arrangements are vessel-specific. The app should link future make/model notes to this question without changing the core card.
References
- OCIMF Anchoring Systems and Procedures, sections 5.1 and 5.2
- INTERTANKO Anchoring Guidelines, Risk-Based Approach v3
- ICS Bridge Procedures Guide, Fifth Edition
- IACS UR A3
- ISM Code section 7
Last reviewed: 2026-08-11