Boat windlass operation

Windlasses are generally located at the bow of the boat, on deck or in a dedicated anchor section, and can be manual, electric or hydraulic. Their operating principle is based on a drum around which the anchor cable or chain is wound or unwound. Electric and hydraulic windlasses are the most common today, offering simpler operation and greater lifting power.

Windlass orientations

1. Vertical windlasses: These models are designed for vertical mounting on the boat deck. They are compact, suitable for medium-sized boats and ideal for small spaces.

2. Horizontal windlasses: mounted horizontally, they are more common on large boats and yachts. These windlasses offer excellent load distribution and are generally used on larger vessels.

Power and voltages

The power of a windlass is a crucial factor in determining its lifting capacity. It is expressed in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lbs). It must therefore be adapted to the total weight of the anchor and chain, and to local marine conditions.

Electric windlasses are commonplace in the nautical sector. They are available in a range of power ratings from a few hundred kilograms to several tonnes. As far as voltage is concerned, they can be supplied at 12 volts or 24 volts for pleasure boats, and 48 volts or more for commercial vessels or luxury yachts.

Renowned windlass brands

1. Lewmar: This British brand is renowned for its reliable, high-performance and innovative windlasses, tailored to the needs of yachtsmen and professional sailors.

2. Maxwell Marine: A New Zealand company offering a wide range of high-quality electric and hydraulic windlasses for various marine applications.

3. Quick: Hailing from Italy, Quick is a well-established manufacturer of nautical windlasses, offering solutions for both small and large boats.

4. Muir: This Australian brand specializes in top-of-the-range windlasses designed for luxury and professional vessels.

5. Lofrans: An Italian company renowned for its top-quality nautical windlasses and durable products.

A few different models

1. Lewmar V700: An electricvertical windlass for small boats and sailboats, designed for deck mounting.

2. Maxwell RC10: An electricvertical windlass capable of lifting larger loads, ideal for medium-sized boats.

3. Quick Prince DP3: A horizontalelectricwindlass suitable for larger and heavier boats.

4. Muir Atlantic 2500: A high-capacity verticalhydraulicwindlass for large boats and ships.

5. Lofrans Tigres: An electric horizontal windlass with high lifting capacity, suitable for yachts and large pleasure boats.

6. Vetus Maxwell VW Series: A series of electric and hydraulic vertical windlasses offering different load capacities to suit a variety of boats.

7. Quick Aster Winch: A robust and reliable manual windlass for small boats and sailboats.

In conclusion, this equipment is indispensable for both pleasure boaters and professional sailors. They facilitate the process of mooring and lifting the anchor. With models to suit all types of boats, and well-known brands offering high-quality products. Windlasses continue to play a key role in the marine industry. When choosing a windlass for your boat, make sure you opt for a model tailored to your specific needs in terms of power, voltage and lifting capacity.