"Wayne.B" wrote in message
...
On Mon, 14 Jun 2010 11:47:43 -0700, "nom=de=plume"
wrote:

I guess it depends on the definition of "decent length" of chain. Is that
20' or 30' or all chain or what? Seems open to interpretation. And, if you
have less than a decent amount, and you know you're going to a place that
potentially has coral, seems reasonable to either avoid that place, get
more
chain, or talk to the locals before you try to anchor.


Half a boat length of chain is the recommended minimum. Most serious
cruisers are using all chain (with a snubber) for a variety of good
reasons.

Did you get a copy of Chapman's yet ? You'll learn a lot from it and
get more details than anyone here can provide:

http://www.amazon.com/Chapman-Piloti...Small-Handling

Yes, have a copy though not the latest. So, a 40' boat would have at least
20 feet. Seems like with all chain that could get pretty heavy if you need
to get it out without a windlass... Seems like picking a good place with
(among other things) less likelihood of coral would mean you wouldn't need
to have as much use for all chain.