When engines stop, something must still hold the ship. An anchor is a heavy device, usually of steel, that digs into the seabed and resists the pull of wind and current so the vessel stays in position.

Modern anchors come in designs such as stockless, Danforth, and plow, each suited to different bottom types. The anchor connects to the ship through chain or cable stored in the chain locker and controlled by the windlass. Holding power depends on weight, fluke area, and how well the anchor sets.

Crews test the set by applying reverse power and watching for drag. A dragging anchor in a crowded anchorage can create an emergency within minutes. Proper scope—the ratio of deployed chain to water depth—remains one of the simplest and most important safety factors.

• Heavy device that holds a ship by gripping the seabed
• Connected by chain or cable to the windlass
• Holding power varies with design and bottom type
• Requires correct scope and monitoring for drag