1. What is Swing Radius?

The swing radius is the horizontal distance a boat can move around its anchor point. It determines the swing circle area where the boat can safely drift without dragging anchor, crucial for proper anchoring in marinas and anchorages.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Pythagorean theorem:

Where:

• \( Rode\ Length \) — Total length of anchor line/chain (meters)
• \( Depth \) — Water depth from water surface to seabed (meters)

Explanation: The formula calculates the horizontal component of the rode length, representing the maximum distance the boat can swing from the anchor point.

3. Importance of Swing Radius Calculation

Details: Knowing your swing radius is essential for safe anchoring. It helps determine adequate spacing between boats, prevents collisions, ensures the anchor holds properly, and helps select appropriate anchoring locations based on available space.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter rode length and depth in meters. Ensure rode length is greater than depth. For safety, add extra scope (typically 5:1 to 7:1 ratio of rode length to depth) in rough conditions.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the recommended scope ratio?
A: For all-chain rode: 3:1 to 5:1. For rope/chain combination: 5:1 to 7:1. Increase scope in rough weather or overnight anchoring.

Q2: How does tide affect swing radius?
A: Calculate using maximum expected depth during high tide to ensure adequate swing radius throughout tidal changes.

Q3: What if my rode length equals depth?
A: The anchor would be straight up and down (vertical), providing no horizontal holding power. Always use scope greater than 1:1.

Q4: Does boat size affect swing radius?
A: Boat size doesn't directly affect the calculation, but larger boats may need more clearance and stronger holding power.

Q5: How do I measure rode length accurately?
A: Mark your rode at regular intervals (every 10-15 meters) for easy measurement while deploying anchor.