On Tue, 07 Sep 2004 16:55:45 -0500, Courtney Thomas
wrote:

Assuming an anchor from the bow is to be deployed using the windlass,
what is the proper technique for deploying a second anchor and what is
recommended to secure it's rode ?

Depends on whether you're doing a true "Bahamian" moor ( usually used
in strong tidal streams) or setting the two anchors forward in a "V".
In a Bahamian moor drop the first one, set, drop back to max. drop the
second one, steam ahead till both are at the right scope. Chain
secure with a snubber, line on a cleat.

For example, if the second anchor is taken out in the dinghy and lowered
away, what is then the best technique for securing the second's rode for
storm security ?

You never need to take the second anchor out with a dinghy. With the
Bahamian moor just drop back and let go. With the "V" set the first
anchor - drop back to the right scope, let some more line out- about
forty feet, steam at right angles to the set anchor ( if port down
first steam starboard and vice versa) as the set anchor rode takes the
strain your boat will start closing the right angle. When you get
pulled ahead to about where the first hook was dropped, drop the
second one, with practice you'll get them about 50 -60 degrees apart.
Take up the slack in the first anchor. Especially good with a boat
that skates a lot. Of course it's advisable to anchor the same way as
the other boats in the anchorage, unless there's tons of room between
boats.

Also, if the original is not left on the windlass, what is regarded as
the stoutest method of securing it as well ?

Snub it with a good length (25-30 ft) of nylon and a chain hook. Wrap
the loose chain around a cleat.

Both rodes might be all chain, or mixed.

Both chain, snub them both. Line , cleat it.

Appreciatively,
Courtney

Rick Itenson
Breathless
Toronto