On Thu, 18 Jun 2009 20:55:07 -0700, "Capt. JG"
wrote:

"Wayne.B" wrote in message
.. .
On Thu, 18 Jun 2009 17:41:59 -0700, "Capt. JG"
wrote:

I'd like an electric at some point. If I finally do that, I'd probably get
a
bigger Bruce.

And that's a major advantage of a windlass, you can get an anchor big
enough to do the job in all conditions without being concerned about
retrieving it. Most serious cruising boats that we see are on very
heavy anchors and an all chain rode.


I would still be concerned about retrieving it... perhaps more so if the
windlass quits.

Many windlasses have a manual over ride for just such an emergency.
Very slow, but will get the anchor up. You can also use a halyard and
winch to pull up about 40 feet of chain at a time. Again, not
convenient, but it will get you home.