Anchor Windlasses: Efficiency and Safety at Anchor
Anchor windlasses are essential for the safe and efficient operation of any vessel. Positioned at the bow, these devices facilitate the handling of chains and anchors, allowing sailors to drop or raise the anchor easily and confidently.
At MercaNautic, we offer a wide selection of windlasses and accessories from the most recognized brands such as Lewmar, Lofrans, Quick, and Lowrance. From motors, switches, remote controls, to gypsies and emergency systems, we have everything you need to ensure safe and hassle-free anchoring.
Boat Windlass
The boat windlass functions like a winch with a horizontal or vertical axis, depending on the available space on deck and the anchoring setup. It is designed to deploy or retrieve anchors quickly, simply, and reliably.
It is installed on the bow deck.
The anchor windlass can be electric or manual
Electric windlass: Offers greater comfort and safety on board. It facilitates solo anchoring maneuvers and is much faster for retrieving the anchor. It also allows better control of the chain being deployed. The only downside is its high power consumption, especially when initially breaking the anchor free.
Manual windlass: Lighter and more affordable than an electric windlass. However, retrieving a heavy anchor requires more effort and time. It is a good option for boats without batteries or electrical charging systems.
It is also possible to use hydraulic power to operate a windlass.
Boat windlasses consist of two main components
Gypsy (chainwheel): The toothed wheel that engages the links of the anchor chain to raise the anchor.
Drum (capstan): A smooth drum used to retrieve rope.
Both components are powered by a gear system that multiplies force. Today, most gypsies offer both functions simultaneously. In the case of electric windlasses, a motor or gearmotor is also included.
We offer the best brands
Lewmar windlass, Lofrans windlass, Quick windlass, Lowrance windlass, etc.
