The New Anchor
05 July 2008 | Salinas Puerto Rico
Capt Chris, clear and calm this morning
Here is a shot of my new anchor picked up at a discount from West Marine in Farjardo. It is a 44lbs Delta Fast Set cast by Lewmar which bought out Simpson Lawrence. As you may recall I lost my coveted 45 lbs CQR and associated chain in Rio San Juan Dominican Republic back in late Feb. Ouch!
I really would have preferred to replace the lost CQR with a CQR but I balked at the price. The CQR was a hair over $800 and I was able to get the Delta Set at under $300. The only difference between the two types are small. Both are plow types but the CQR has a knuckle that allows the fluke and shank to pivot. The Delta is just one solid piece. Blue Water Sailing mag did an in depth product review of just about every anchor used throughout history. The holding power of the Delta Set was certainly comparable to other anchors. Other cruisers I've met who have used the Delta Set are pleased with its performance. Besides anchors are such the controversial topic, that opinions vary and when a sailor weathers a blow at anchor you become convinced the one you use is the best. So my anchoring system just about up to par with the exception of a swivel, still searching for an suitable replacement.
Capt Chris