Once reserved for large boats, windlasses are now widely available on much smaller vessels. Above all, the old manual windlasses, which reduced the force of the crew member, have now been replaced by electric windlasses. The motor and gearbox pull the anchor up effortlessly.
Extra weight at the front of the boat
The addition of a windlass adds considerable weight to the bow of the boat. Located close to the anchor locker, it can unbalance the boat's trim, particularly on smaller boats. On an 8- or 9-meter sailboat, an additional 10 kg of weight at the bow can cause the boat to pile up and pitch more, a factor to be taken into account during installation. To avoid this phenomenon, some yachts (but unfortunately this is all too rare) install the windlass and anchor locker at the foot of the mast. This is also the case on multihulls, which are particularly sensitive to load distribution.
As a guide, here are some standard chain weights:
- 6 mm chain: 0.8 kg/m (i.e. 24 kg for 30 m)
- 8 mm chain: 1.4 kg/m (i.e. 56 kg for 40 m)
- 10 mm chain: 2.2 kg/m (i.e. 110 kg for 50 m)
- 12 mm chain: 3.2 kg/m (i.e. 256 kg for 80 m)
Anticipating energy consumption
Electric windlasses require a constant power supply. To avoid discharging the on-board battery, it is often advisable to start the motor when using the windlass. You can even arrange the electrical circuit so that the windlass will not operate if the motor is not running. This is particularly important when mooring for extended periods, where power consumption must be carefully managed to guarantee the boat's autonomy.
Regular maintenance at considerable cost
Like all on-board equipment, the windlass requires specific maintenance to ensure its smooth operation. Regular rinsing and lubrication are essential, as are checks on the condition of mechanical and electrical components. What's more, installation costs are not insignificant, with entry-level electric models starting at 800 euros, not to mention ancillary costs such as the installation of additional batteries.
Greater comfort for smaller crews
On a sailboat where the crew is often limited to a couple or a family, the windlass greatly simplifies anchor handling. Raising an anchor by hand can be physically demanding. Electric control saves time and fatigue, making it easier to choose the right anchorage.
Choosing the right model: horizontal or vertical?
There are two main types of windlasses on the market:
- Horizontal windlass: more common on second-hand yachts, this windlass is installed on deck, providing direct access to the engine but taking up valuable deck space.
- Vertical windlass: favored on modern yachts, it conceals the engine below deck in the anchor locker, optimizing space. However, it requires a sufficiently deep anchor well to function properly.
A choice that depends on the sailing program
The installation of a windlass can be a major asset for comfort and safety at sea, especially for small crews and regular sailings in deep anchorages. However, the weight, energy consumption and cost of a windlass need to be taken into account beforehand, depending on the boat's specific needs and sailing schedule.
