Collection: Windlass

Windlasses: Choosing the right power for your anchor

The windlass is much more than just a convenience on board. It's a crucial safety component, allowing you to raise the anchor effortlessly, even in challenging conditions. At Skysat, drawing on our experience in offshore racing, we know that a properly sized and reliable windlass is essential. Here, we guide you in choosing the right model for your boat and your needs, with all the necessary information.

sizing and power

The sizing of a windlass depends primarily on the size and displacement of your boat, as well as the weight of your anchor and the length of your chain. An undersized windlass will struggle to raise the anchor, while an oversized one will be unnecessarily heavy and expensive.

• Calculating the workload: Determine the total weight (anchor + chain) and increase it according to the maximum planned anchoring depth and potential wind conditions.
• Motor power: Express the power in Watts (W) or horsepower (HP), taking into account the system's efficiency. Insufficient power will lead to overheating and premature wear.
• Ascent speed: Choose an ascent speed suited to your paddling style. Too slow a speed can be frustrating, while too fast a speed can be dangerous.
• Windlass Types (Horizontal vs. Vertical): The choice depends on your deck layout and available space. A horizontal windlass is often simpler to install, while a vertical windlass provides better chain tension.

compatibility and installation

Installing a windlass is a delicate operation requiring a good understanding of marine electricity and mechanics. Incorrect installation can compromise the safety of the boat and damage the equipment.

• Power supply: Check the cross-section of the power cables and the capacity of the dedicated battery. Insufficient voltage can lead to power loss and motor overheating.
• Electrical protection: Install a suitable fuse or circuit breaker to protect the windlass against overloads and short circuits.
• Chain and gypsy compatibility: Ensure the chain is compatible with the windlass gypsy. Using an unsuitable chain can lead to jamming or premature wear.
• Watertightness and corrosion protection: Choose a windlass made with corrosion-resistant materials and with good watertightness. The marine environment is particularly harsh on electrical equipment.

automation and control

Modern windlasses can be equipped with automation and remote control features, offering increased comfort and safety.

• Wired and wireless remote controls: Allow you to control the windlass from anywhere on the boat.
• Chain counters: Display the wet chain length, facilitating precise anchoring.
• NMEA 2000 interfaces: Allow the windlass to be integrated into the onboard network and controlled from a multifunction screen.
• Automatic stop functions: Prevent the windlass from raising the chain beyond a certain limit, thus avoiding damage to the bow roller.

💡 Skysat's advice

Before installing your windlass, test it without load to ensure it operates smoothly and without any binding. Regularly grease the moving parts to guarantee optimal performance and extend the life of your equipment.