New Boat - Windlass or not?

[LongShort]

I am thinking about buying a new boat and one option I always thought would be great is a windlass. My family and I enjoy anchoring in coves to just hangout and swim so it seems to make sense. The problem is the boat I am contemplating (Sea Ray 250 SLX) has the anchor sticking straight out from the bow when you get the windlass option. I really don't like that look but I'm trying to weigh that against the benefits of having the windlass.

Have people found that a windlass is a can't live without option once you have it or is it not worth the extra money and aesthetics? Any thoughts and experiences would be appreciated. Thanks!

[ericnh]

I am thinking about buying a new boat and one option I always thought would be great is a windlass. My family and I enjoy anchoring in coves to just hangout and swim so it seems to make sense. The problem is the boat I am contemplating (Sea Ray 250 SLX) has the anchor sticking straight out from the bow when you get the windlass option. I really don't like that look but I'm trying to weigh that against the benefits of having the windlass.

Have people found that a windlass is a can't live without option once you have it or is it not worth the extra money and aesthetics? Any thoughts and experiences would be appreciated. Thanks!

I highly recommend it for a number of reasons:
It keeps the anchor and line stored and ready for quick and hassle free use.
Allows boat operation while setting or retrieval the anchor - a safety benefit
Easier for one person to operate anchor

[joey2665]

I had a Sea Ray 270 SLX and now a 310 SLX and think the windlass Is a must. Yes it does protrude but never found it to be an issue. It is invaluable especially when you are out alone or with people that really cannot assist you in anchoring like the little ones.


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[Liquorish]

Just makes things so much easier!

[Rich]

Back in the day on my dad's boat, *I* was the windlass.

Now, I own a windlass!

[Descant]

Your anchor is a safety device in case of a breakdown, so you don't blow onto rocks or someplace where a rescue vessel can't get to you. Single handed, can you safely get to the bow to release and set a non-windlass anchor in a heavy blow? Some boats, yes, others, not so much. It's always that single handed question. Readers here know that I'm a firm believer that if a couple owns a boat, both should be adept at handling it. Who's the crew on the bow?

[Dave R]

My current boat is the first boat I've owned with one and I'll never have another boat without one. Windlass is awesome.

I added a key fob remote control to my windlass last year so I can adjust it easily while setting my stern anchor. Should have done it years ago, it's sweet option.

[Biggd]

I get windlass trying to anchor my boat. My shipmates are useless.

[persistence]

That is a strange design, I think, but sort of the norm now if you look around. Even the big boys are doing away with the pulpits. I'm surprised it doesn't scratch the front of the boat on retrieval. My boat has a pulpit that the anchor is stored on when not in use. I still have someone watch it as it comes aboard to not hit the bow and to bring it up when the boats not rocking. It's just me trying not to scratch the paint :)

That being said, I agree, especially if you use it often. A windlass makes everything alot easier :)

[Dave R]

That is a strange design, I think, but sort of the norm now if you look around. Even the big boys are doing away with the pulpits. I'm surprised it doesn't scratch the front of the boat on retrieval. My boat has a pulpit that the anchor is stored on when not in use. I still have someone watch it as it comes aboard to not hit the bow and to bring it up when the boats not rocking. It's just me trying not to scratch the paint :)

That being said, I agree, especially if you use it often. A windlass makes everything alot easier :)

My windlass was installed off-center by the previous owner and I always hated it. I moved it to the center last year and had a polished stainless steel plate made that goes just under the rub rail at the point of the bow and protects the gel coat. Looks really cool too. While I was having SS work done, I also had a brushed stainless steel sheet cut to replace the black painted (scratched and dented too) cockpit fridge door insert. I think it looks much classier.

[Descant]

Yeah. I have a stainless steel protection plate too. Came from the manufacturer. Looks nice.

[LongShort]

Thank you everyone for the comments and suggestions. I think it will make sense to go with the windlass given the way we use our boat. I appreciate the input!

[meredith weekender]

A windlass is a must. Makes anchoring a lot more enjoyable.

[Phantom]

I need to get one too as my wife has clearly informed me she is retiring soon as our boats Windlass :D :D


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