T&T: All chain rode scope question.

[trawlerphil]

In reality, there's no cookbook answer to this question.  It all depends on
the anchor, the holding ground, the boat's structure, and the weather. Until
you get experienced, put out all the chain you've got room for in the
anchorage. Get into the habit of setting your GPS alarm and if you are in
the Bahamas, dive on your anchor to make sure it is set before going to bed.

As you gain experience, you'll know which anchor to use and how much scope
is reasonable for the holding conditions. The Keys and Bahamas are different
from the Chesapeake which is different from New England.

Use high test chain and keep getting a bigger anchor on your bow until
people laugh at you. Once they laugh at you, you've got the right size
anchor for extended cruising.

                                          Regards....

Phil Rosch
Old Harbor Consulting
M/V "Curmudgeon" MT44 TC
Currently lying Bond Creek, NC