Anchoring may keep the vessel safely positioned head on to heavy conditions and it can also allow you to retain your position and not be swept away or on shore.

The anchor with chain or line, or both, must be of sufficient strength and durability to secure the vessel. It must also be appropriate for the area of operation of the vessel. The chain or line or combination must be securely attached to both the anchor and the vessel at all times.

• Choose your anchor, chain/or line carefully to suit your vessel requirements, the depth of water, and the bottom type you are likely to find where you are operating.
• Always lower the anchor rather than hurling the anchor and chain overboard as this may lead to tangling.
• As a rule of thumb, the line paid out should be at least three times the depth of water. This distance should be increased to five to one in rougher seas.
• Regularly check the anchor is not dragging by inspecting the rope tension and monitoring your position.
• Never drop anchor from the stern or midship, you risk swamping the vessel.

Vessel Operating and Zoning Rules (VOZR), see Regulatory Environment section, states that anchorage of vessels is not permitted in certain areas.

• It is illegal and dangerous to anchor in shipping channels or transit lanes.
• It is illegal and dangerous to tie vessels to navigational aids.