Choosing the Right Windlass for Your Boat
Deciding which windlass is perfect for your boat can be a challenging task. Whether you are looking for the best or the most powerful windlass, it's always crucial to consult your technical specialist to determine which type is most suitable for your boat. Several factors need to be considered before purchasing a windlass.
At MAURIPRO Sailing, we’ve created a helpful guide explaining the differences between Horizontal and Vertical Windlasses. Read on to learn more!
Horizontal Windlass
A Horizontal Windlass is a simple design commonly used by boaters who demand optimal performance from their anchoring systems. This type of windlass is ideal for those who frequently anchor, especially in deep water, and prefer a hassle-free self-tailing system. It performs well in boats with small or unusually shaped anchor lockers. As the anchor rode enters the gypsy, it makes a 90-degree turn and feeds directly into the anchor locker. A minimum fall of 12" (30cm) is recommended for proper operation.
Since the unit is located above deck, installation is easier. However, it takes up significant deck space, making it more suitable for smaller boats or those with irregular chain lockers. Horizontal windlasses provide only a 90-degree wrap around the gypsy, offering less security compared to vertical models. While it may not be stable enough for heavy-duty applications, it is well-suited for casual anchoring.
Key Features of Horizontal Windlasses:
- Most of the windlass unit is located on the deck
- Easy to install
- Ideal for boats with small or irregular anchor lockers
- Anchor rode enters the gypsy, makes a 90-degree turn, and feeds into the anchor locker
- A minimum fall of 304mm (12") is recommended to ensure proper gravity-fed operation
Vertical Windlass
A Vertical Windlass provides added aesthetic value and enhanced protection by allowing the anchor rode to make a 180-degree wrap around the gypsy. The integrated design of a vertical windlass requires at least 16" (40cm) of fall to allow gravity to properly self-tail the anchor rode through a 90-degree vertical turn into the locker. Since the nylon line is lightweight, an insufficient fall might prevent proper feeding into the anchor locker.
This type of windlass is mounted below deck, freeing up more space above deck but making installation and usage more complex. The 180-degree wrap around the gypsy offers greater security, making it ideal for anchoring in severe weather conditions.
Key Features of Vertical Windlasses:
- Most of the unit is hidden below deck, freeing up deck space
- Suitable for boats with large anchor lockers
- Provides a 180-degree wrap around the gypsy for increased security
- Anchor rode enters the gypsy, makes a 90-degree turn, and feeds into the anchor locker
- A minimum fall of 406mm (18") is recommended for proper gravity-fed operation
Final Considerations
Before making your final decision, it's essential to understand the differences between horizontal and vertical windlasses. The complexity and structural variations between these two types can result in completely different sailing experiences. To stay informed, subscribe to our newsletter for expert advice, or contact us via chat, and our team will be happy to help you choose the right windlass for your needs!