Sailing Umavideo
Designing a Fail-Safe Sailboat Anchoring System (From Wiring to Anchor) | Step 473
9 February 2026 · 50 min · 151K views
Crew secures massive anchor to bow of white sailboat
What this video covers
The crew of the 48-volt electric-powered sailboat Uma installs a custom windlass control system in the lazarette to manage anchor deployment and retrieval.2:15 The system utilizes two contactors to isolate both the positive and negative power lines, preventing galvanic corrosion on the anchor chain.42:00 A 12-volt control circuit operates the contactors, while the 48-volt side powers the windlass motor.37:35 The setup integrates with the boat’s NMEA 2000 network, allowing for digital chain counting and remote control via an onboard computer.2:05 The crew replaces their galvanized chain with 80 meters of 318LN duplex stainless steel chain from Chromox to improve corrosion resistance and prevent the chain from piling up in the locker.41:04 They also mount a 27-kilogram Ultra spade anchor, citing superior holding power and a roll-bar-free design that avoids snagging.44:05 The installation includes a new stainless steel swivel to prevent chain twisting.45:46 The project prioritizes overbuilding ground tackle as a primary safety measure against dragging in high winds.47:24
More from Sailing Uma
From Sailing Uma — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analysed video.
The Sailing Directory Newsletter
One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.