WEsail · video

What this video covers

Anchoring over coral-covered seabeds requires floating the chain to prevent it from dragging across and killing coral heads. Erica and Warren demonstrate their method using pearl floats clipped to the anchor chain with carabiners, deployed from the boat without scuba gear or free diving. The critical rule: the first float must be placed no closer than 1.5 times the water depth from the anchor — 30 feet back in 20 feet of water, 45 feet back in 30 feet, 60 feet back in 40 feet — so enough chain weight remains on the seabed to keep the anchor pulling laterally rather than being lifted and dislodged.0:37 Subsequent floats are spaced 10 to 15 feet apart on their half-inch chain, though spacing depends on chain weight and float size and requires some trial and error.1:02 Carabiners allow floats to be clipped on as the chain pays out, making the system manageable solo from the deck.1:33 After anchoring, they recommend entering the water to inspect float placement and adjust rope lengths to achieve the correct lift height.1:56 The 1.5× depth rule is the non-negotiable minimum for maintaining anchor holding while keeping chain off the coral.

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