The Excess anchoring system: reliability, simplicity and peace of mind while cruising

At Excess, anchoring is not just a technical piece of equipment. It is a key element for the boat’s safety, comfort at anchor, and the peace of mind of its owners.

An architecture designed for stability and safety

The anchor is positioned at the very front of the boat. This layout prevents chafing against the bows when the catamaran moves around its anchor point, protecting the structure and ensuring very stable behaviour.

With this positioning, the boat naturally aligns with the wind and current. This orientation limits yawing and distributes loads more evenly along the entire anchoring system.

The double-roller bow fitting is designed to guide the anchor smoothly, without hard points, ensuring easy retrieval and reducing mechanical stress. While optimised for the standard Delta anchor, it is also compatible with most modern anchors on the market (Rocna, Spade without roll bar, etc.).

Anchor selection: performance and versatility

The Delta anchor is used because it offers one of the best compromises available. It provides excellent holding power on a wide range of seabeds, and its design has been proven through many years of use.

The chosen material, galvanised steel, is robust, cost-effective and far more forgiving than stainless steel in the event of scratches or impacts.

The entire anchoring system is dimensioned to account for the windage of Excess catamarans and the loads generated by wind, ensuring secure holding across a wide range of conditions.

A simple, strong and efficient bridle

The three-strand rope bridle provides natural elasticity, absorbing load variations. This reduces unpleasant snatching at anchor and limits stress on cleats and the windlass.

It is fitted with a proper chain hook, ensuring secure attachment even under high loads. This system prevents loads from being transferred to the windlass, significantly extending its service life and improving overall reliability.

A visible and easy-to-maintain windlass and chain run

The windlass is installed on deck, allowing constant visual monitoring of the chain run. This makes it easy to immediately detect any jamming or tangling.

The anchor locker is deep enough to allow the chain to fall freely, without the risk of piling up under the windlass. Maintenance is straightforward, cleaning is easier, and direct access improves safety.

Best practices for safe anchoring

Even with a well-designed system, good habits make all the difference. Here are the key points to master for confident anchoring:

#1 Choose the right location

• Favour sandy bottoms whenever possible.

• Avoid seagrass meadows or posidonia, in accordance with local regulations.

• Check depth, tidal range and the space required for swinging.

#2 Pay out the correct length of chain

A simple rule: five times the water depth in normal conditions.
In gusty conditions, increase to seven times the water depth for optimal comfort.

#3 Set the anchor properly

Once the anchor reaches the seabed, gently reverse.
Observe the chain tension, then allow the boat to settle before fitting the bridle.

#4 Always use the bridle

It absorbs shock loads, relieves the entire system and provides a quieter, more comfortable anchorage.

#5 Check regularly

A quick look at bearings or GPS position helps ensure the boat is not dragging.

#6 Preserve your equipment

Regular rinsing of the chain, even with a bucket, significantly extends its lifespan.
A visual inspection of the links helps quickly identify corrosion or deformation.

Conclusion

The Excess anchoring system has been designed to remain simple, reliable and durable. It gives owners all the tools they need to fully enjoy life at anchor, in total comfort and complete safety.

By combining robust equipment with good anchoring practices, every anchorage becomes a calm and enjoyable experience.

For any maintenance related to your Excess, always refer to the periodic maintenance schedule provided with the boat.