Which circle is used to ensure the anchor is holding?

Which circle is used to ensure the anchor is holding?

• A. Swing circle
• B. Drag circle
• C. Transfer circle
• D. Anchor circle

Answer: (A)

When a vessel is anchored, the anchor acts as a pivot and the ship can swing around it as wind and current push on the bow. The swing circle is drawn with the anchor at the center and a radius equal to the length of the anchor rode (scope). This circle represents all the positions the vessel could reach while the anchor is holding. By observing the actual movement, you can tell if the hold is secure: if the ship stays well inside the circle and doesn’t approach the boundary, the anchor is holding. If the swing approaches or crosses the circle, it suggests the anchor may be dragging and action such as increasing scope or resetting may be needed. The drag circle is related to potential movement if the anchor isn’t holding, but it isn’t the practical check used to confirm holding. The other terms aren’t the standard way to assess holding at anchor.

When a vessel is anchored, the anchor acts as a pivot and the ship can swing around it as wind and current push on the bow. The swing circle is drawn with the anchor at the center and a radius equal to the length of the anchor rode (scope). This circle represents all the positions the vessel could reach while the anchor is holding. By observing the actual movement, you can tell if the hold is secure: if the ship stays well inside the circle and doesn’t approach the boundary, the anchor is holding. If the swing approaches or crosses the circle, it suggests the anchor may be dragging and action such as increasing scope or resetting may be needed. The drag circle is related to potential movement if the anchor isn’t holding, but it isn’t the practical check used to confirm holding. The other terms aren’t the standard way to assess holding at anchor.