Anchor chain length is how many feet?

• A. 9 feet
• B. 6 feet
• C. 12 feet
• D. 15 feet

Answer: (A)

Anchor rode length matters because the chain portion adds weight and protection that help the anchor bite and stay set. The chain keeps the pull on the anchor more vertical and smooths out surge from wind or current, reducing the chance the anchor will drag or pulled loose. For the 29'RBS II, nine feet of chain provides enough weight to help the anchor hold while still being practical to stow and handle in the bow area.

If the chain were only six feet, there wouldn’t be as much weight to assist the anchor in setting, increasing the likelihood of dragging in adverse conditions. If the chain were longer, like twelve or fifteen feet, it would be more cumbersome to manage on a small boat and could add unnecessary rode in the water, increasing drag and complicating retrieval.