Anchor Cable

The chain, rope, wire or combination connecting a vessel to its anchor.

On ships, “anchor cable” commonly means the chain cable; on small craft, the broader term “anchor rode” is often used for chain, rope or a combination. The cable transmits the vessel’s load to the anchor and its weight and elasticity influence shock loading and the angle of pull.

Required length and construction depend on vessel size, water depth, tide, holding ground, weather, exposure and handling equipment. Cable should be marked as appropriate, secured at its inboard end in a releasable arrangement where required, and inspected for wear, corrosion, damaged links, splices and connectors.