Boat Anchor Styles for Different Seabeds
Shop boat anchors for sand, reef, combination setups and small craft. Each design suits different seabeds and vessel sizes:
Grapnel and reef anchors
Multi-fluke designs latch into rock crevices in reefy areas. Best for smaller watercraft or securing nets. Browse our reef anchors range.
Danforth anchors
A popular choice for mud and sand. Its hinged flukes fold flat against the shank, making it easy to stow in a locker or anchor well. See Manson Danforth and our full Danforth anchors category.
Scoop and plough anchors
Single-point designs secure heavier craft on sand, mud or grass. Shop leading brands in our sand anchors range, including:
- Rocna Original and Rocna Mk2
- Manson Supreme, Manson Boss and Manson plough
- Vulcan, Racer and Maxwell Maxset (including Maxset stainless 6kg)
Also browse combination anchors and other anchors.
Jet ski and kayak anchors
Compact packs for personal watercraft and paddle craft:
- Jet ski grapnel pack 1.5kg and grapnel 0.7kg
- Jet ski Danforth pack 2.4kg
- Jet ski sand bag anchor with float
- Burnsco kayak anchor pack
Finding the Right Anchor for Your Boat
Finding the right anchor depends on your vessel and where you boat:
- Boat size: Match anchor weight to boat length and displacement. Most ranges offer multiple sizes from tinnies to cruisers.
- Sea state: Wind, swell and tide reduce holding power. In exposed spots, use a heavier anchor with chain and shackles plus anchor rope, not rope alone.
- Seabed: Grapnel or reef anchors for rock; Danforth for mud and sand; scoop and plough types for sand, mud and grass.
Read our guide on how to choose the best anchor for your boat. When anchoring in areas with exotic caulerpa, follow stop the spread of exotic caulerpa guidance.
Accessories for Safer Anchoring
Complete your setup with anchor accessories, plus:
Buy Boat Anchors at Burnsco
Burnsco stocks anchors and anchoring gear for trailer boats through to larger cruisers. Browse anchors online or visit your nearest Burnsco store.
Call 0800 10 20 41 or contact us for help matching anchor, rope and chain to your boat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the same anchor for different types of boats?
Select an anchor based on boat size, weight, windage, seabed and conditions. Check product pages for recommended weights and compatible rope and chain. See how to choose the best anchor for your boat.
How do I store an anchor safely on a boat?
Rinse the anchor with fresh water to prevent corrosion, then let it dry. Stow it flat or in a dedicated locker with drainage. Keep anchor rope neat and tangle-free on a reel or in a bag.
When should I replace a boat anchor?
Inspect your anchor regularly for cracks, heavy corrosion or bent flukes. Replace it after a hard impact or if it no longer sets reliably. Browse sand anchors and other anchors for replacements.
Can boat anchors be used in rocky or reef areas?
Yes. Grapnel and reef anchors use a multi-fluke design that hooks into rock crevices. Jet ski grapnel packs suit light craft in similar ground.
What anchoring setup works best for small boats?
Match the anchor to your seabed:
- Rocky or reef: Grapnel or reef anchor
- Sand or mud: Danforth or scoop/plough anchor
- Grass: Scoop or plough anchor from our sand anchors range
For kayaks and jet skis, see our kayak anchor pack and jet ski anchor packs.
