Marine Lines & Chains

To prevent the vessel from moving out of its position, mariners use heavy anchors that sit on the sea/ocean bed and allow your boat to stay in one place even under the influence of wind or changing tides. The anchor is connected to the vessel with the help of an anchor rode which may be a chain, cable, or rope. Chains are considered to be highly durable heavy-duty anchor rodes and are commonly used for setting and raising large anchors.

One of the most crucial parts of anchoring equipment, the anchor rode attaches the anchor itself to the boat. That is exactly why, picking the anchor chain, you always need to take into consideration the type of your boat, its size and, most importantly, the kind of anchor you are utilizing. Chain rodes are typically opted for large boats with heavy anchors. Strong and almost unlikely to break, anchor chains will serve as additional weight tying your boat to one spot and will help you keep your anchor intact even under harsh conditions. Due to its substantial weight, the chain rode requires the use of a winch / windlass.

There is a number of chains commonly used for anchor rodes. These include proof coil, BBB, High-Test, GR43 High-Test and GR70 Transport. Ranked in different grades of steel, the chains offered on the market vary in their tensile strength. The higher the grade of the chain you pick, the heavier and stronger it will be. Apart from that, chain rodes may be constructed from galvanized or stainless steel and feature long or short links. Stainless steel chains withstand corrosion better, though having lower breaking point than their galvanized steel counterparts. When determining the length of the chain you require, consider the size of your boat and the depth of the water.

Proof coil chains are basic 30 grade chains that are commonly chosen for their affordability. BBB is another basic inexpensive chain made from galvanized steel and featuring added flexibility owning to short chain links. High-Test chains are grade 40 and thus more durable and reliable even under harsh weather conditions. Grade 43 High-Test anchor chain is made of carbon steel and boasts double holding strength of basic BBB and proof coil chains. Grade 70 Transport chains are the strongest and thus the most expensive anchor chains available on the market nowadays.