1. Anchor Chain Sizing: Ensure a Perfect Fit and Worry-Free Anchoring
Scenario 1: Replacing the Anchor Chain on an Existing Vessel (Method 1: Precise Measurement)
If your current anchor chain already fits your windlass and chain gypsy perfectly and runs smoothly, then replacing it by measuring the original chain is the most direct and accurate approach. This ensures that your new anchor chain will match your existing windlass system without issues.
To guarantee compatibility, you’ll need to take four key measurements of your current anchor chain:
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D (Diameter): The diameter of the chain link material, measured in millimetres (mm) or inches.
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L (Inner Length): The inner length of a single chain link.
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b (Inner Width): The inner width of a single chain link.
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B (Outer Width): The outer width of a single chain link.
By accurately measuring these dimensions, you reduce the risk of chain jamming or slippage, ensuring a smooth and secure anchoring experience with your new anchor chain—whether it’s a galvanized chain or a stainless steel anchor chain.
Scenario 2: Choosing an Anchor Chain for a New Vessel or Windlass Installation (Method 2: Consult the Windlass Supplier and Match Anchor Weight)
If you’re building a new vessel or installing a new anchor windlass system, selecting the right anchor chain involves two critical steps:
1. Determine the Chain Diameter Based on Anchor Weight
The chain diameter must match both the weight of the anchor and the size of the vessel to ensure that the chain’s strength meets actual sea condition demands. You may refer to marine engineering guidelines, anchor manufacturer recommendations, or consult a ShakeSure expert to determine the minimum required anchor chain diameter.
A reference table is available below to assist your decision.\
2. Consult the Windlass Manufacturer to Confirm Chain Compatibility
Once the recommended diameter is determined, it’s essential to contact your windlass supplier. By providing your windlass model, the manufacturer can advise the exact anchor chain size and standard—such as DIN766, ISO, or JIS—that fits the chain gypsy correctly.
This ensures smooth operation, avoids slippage or jamming, and guarantees safety when using your galvanized chain or stainless steel anchor chain in real marine conditions.
2. Choose Calibrated Anchor Chains: Ensure Dimensional Accuracy Meets the Required Standard
For smooth and safe anchoring, it’s essential to choose a calibrated anchor chain that meets precise dimensional tolerances according to international standards. Common standards for no-notch anchor chains used in boats and yachts include:
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ISO 4565
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DIN 766
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NACM 2010
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Australian Short Link Chain
Based on the chain dimensions identified in Step 1, you can determine which anchor chain standard applies. It’s crucial that the chain’s pitch and link shape comply with the specific standard’s tolerance to ensure compatibility with your windlass.
At ShakeSure, all our stainless steel anchor chains and hot-dip galvanized chains are professionally calibrated to meet these standards—giving you peace of mind during anchoring operations.
3. Anchor Chain Strength Grades: The Core of Safe Anchoring
Selecting the appropriate anchor chain strength grade is essential to ensure safe and secure anchoring in various marine conditions. ShakeSure offers multiple strength grades to meet the needs of different vessels and environments:
G30 (Proof Coil Chain)
Characteristics: Lowest strength rating; suitable for calm, non-tidal waters.
Recommendation: Best for small boats operating in lakes or quiet inland rivers with minimal wind or current.
G43 (High Test Chain)
Characteristics: Approximately twice the strength of G30; widely used and reliable.
Recommendation: The best value-for-strength option for most recreational vessels in standard coastal or offshore conditions. A strong, trusted choice among boat owners.
G70 (Transport Chain / Grade 70)
Characteristics: Significantly higher tensile strength than G43.
Recommendation: Ideal for larger boats or those sailing in rough seas, storm-prone areas, or heavy weather conditions. Offers an extra layer of safety for demanding environments.
G80 (Alloy Chain / Grade 80)
Characteristics: Extremely high strength, typically used in industrial lifting.
Recommendation: Not commonly needed for standard vessels due to its excessive strength and higher cost. However, it’s suitable for large vessels or specialised safety applications.
Choosing the right anchor chain strength grade is critical to protect your vessel and crew. Always base your decision on your boat size, usage environment, and safety expectations.
ShakeSure supplies a full range of strength-rated chains—including G30, G43, G70, and G80—to match various anchoring needs with confidence and quality.
4. Anchor Chain Length: Ensure Proper Holding and Shock Absorption
Choosing the correct anchor chain length is essential for effective bottom holding, mooring stability, and shock absorption. Here are key factors to consider:
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Water Depth:
It’s generally recommended that your anchor chain length be 5 to 7 times the depth of the anchoring location.
For example, in 10 metres of water, you should use 50–70 metres of chain. A 7:1 scope is more reliable in rough conditions or when anchoring in soft or muddy seabeds.
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Vessel Size and Weight:
The larger and heavier your vessel, the more force it exerts when swaying in waves or wind. Longer chain lengths offer greater holding power and more shock-absorbing slack to keep the vessel stable.
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Anchor Type and Weight:
While the design and weight of your anchor influence performance, it’s still best to follow the chain-to-depth ratio principle for safety and consistency.
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Storage Capacity:
Ensure your anchor locker or chain compartment has sufficient space to accommodate the full length of your selected galvanized chain or stainless steel anchor chain.
Choosing the right length not only improves safety but also reduces strain on your anchor and windlass system. Contact ShakeSure for advice tailored to your vessel and anchoring needs.
5. Anchor Chain Materials: Balancing Corrosion Resistance and Cost
The material of your anchor chain directly affects its durability, corrosion resistance, strength, and appearance in marine environments. ShakeSure offers the following common material options:
Hot-Dip Galvanized Carbon Steel
Features:
Low cost and widely used. After hot-dip galvanising, carbon steel chains offer reliable resistance to seawater corrosion. This is the most common and cost-effective option on the market.
Used In:
G30 chains are suitable for small boats operating in calm inland waters like lakes and rivers.
G43 chains are a more robust and cost-effective choice for most recreational boats in typical sea conditions.
Hot-Dip Galvanized Alloy Steel
Features:
Enhanced strength compared to carbon steel, while still maintaining corrosion resistance through hot-dip galvanising.
Used In:
G70 and G80 anchor chains, where superior tensile strength is required.
Best For:
Larger vessels or operations in harsh sea conditions where stronger chain performance is essential.
316L Stainless Steel
Features:
Exceptional corrosion resistance and a polished, high-end finish. However, it’s typically 2–3 times more expensive than galvanized options, and may have slightly lower strength in the same size.
Best For:
Luxury yachts, sailboats, or owners seeking the best aesthetics and corrosion protection.
Choosing the right anchor chain material depends on your budget, vessel size, aesthetic preferences, and environmental demands. At ShakeSure, we provide expert guidance and a full range of options—from galvanized chains to 316L stainless steel anchor chains—to help you anchor with confidence.
Summary Recommendation
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For the best balance of cost and practicality: Choose hot-dip galvanized carbon steel.
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For higher strength with reasonable cost: Choose hot-dip galvanized alloy steel.
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For premium appearance and maximum corrosion resistance: Choose 316L stainless steel anchor chain.
For a full comparison, refer to our guide: [Galvanized vs 316L Anchor Chain – Which to Choose?]
6. Brand Matters: ShakeSure – Specialists in Marine Anchor Chains
Choosing a reliable brand is essential when it comes to anchor chains. At ShakeSure, we focus exclusively on marine-grade anchoring solutions and are committed to solving the real-world challenges faced by boat owners:
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Chain doesn’t fit your windlass?
ShakeSure provides high-precision anchor chains with professional consultation. Every chain is stamped and comes with a factory inspection report to ensure perfect windlass compatibility.
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Worried about cost?
We offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality—delivering outstanding value in both galvanized chains and 316L stainless steel anchor chains.
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Need a specific chain length?
ShakeSure offers custom-cut chain lengths to match your vessel’s exact requirements.
With ShakeSure, you’re choosing confidence, expertise, and precision—from measurement to mooring.