Anchor Locker

A dedicated storage compartment, typically located in the bow of a vessel, used to store the anchor and its associated gear, such as the rode and chain.

The anchor locker is an essential feature on most recreational and commercial boats, designed to keep the anchor and its related equipment secure and organised when not in use. This compartment is usually found in the forward part of the boat, often in the bow, and is typically accessed via a hatch on the deck. The locker is designed to store not only the anchor itself but also the anchor rode (the line or chain that connects the anchor to the boat). 

In many vessels, the anchor locker is equipped with drainage holes to allow water to escape, preventing the accumulation of moisture that could lead to corrosion or mildew. Some lockers may also have cleats or other fittings to secure the anchor rode, ensuring it doesn’t become tangled or slip out unexpectedly. 

The size and design of the anchor locker can vary depending on the size and type of boat, as well as the size of the anchor and rode being used. On smaller vessels, the locker may be relatively simple, while larger boats may have more complex systems, including windlasses (mechanical devices to raise and lower the anchor) that feed the chain directly into the locker. Proper maintenance of the anchor locker is crucial to ensure that the anchor and rode are always ready for deployment when needed.