| Description: | A traditional design, the Admiralty Pattern, "A.P.", or simply "Admiralty", and also known as "Fisherman", is the most familiar among non-sailors. The design is a non-burying type, with one arm penetrating the seabed and the other standing proud. The anchor is ancient in design and has not changed substantially over time. It has a good reputation for use in rock, kelp and grass. On soft grounds it is important that the anchor has large flukes. Even with large flukes, it has less holding power to weight ratio than modern anchors. It is a good all around anchor for those who need to anchor on all types of seabed. However, if anchored under conditions where the boat can drift over and around the anchor (light, changing wind and tides), the anchor is easily fouled by the chain and the anchor loses its holding power. Under these conditions, the anchor needs to be brought to surface and checked before it can be trusted in any but light conditions. The A.P. is more difficult to stow than modern anchors, as it does not stow in a hawse pipe or over an anchor roller. Most versions include a folding stock so the anchor may be stowed flat on deck. Some are also made with hinged flukes and some in 3 pieces and can thus be stowed in a locker. |
