Your new or second-hand boat purchase project finally has form and meaning.
It is summer, the boat is ready… It only remains to refuel gasoline, food and set sail. The question of anchoring will inevitably arise. We give 5 tips for a successful mooring and take a tour of the neighboring ports: Roses, Cadaqués and Begur.
The 5 tips for a successful mooring
The cove
And yes, it is basic! At sea, it is always recommended to know the sailing region and the climate. So, before deciding on where to anchor, it is practical to ask yourself upstream what is the prevailing wind, what turn is the weather forecast for the next few days supposed to give ... That is why we prefer the coves sheltered from the prevailing wind. Places in these places are usually expensive.
The mooring area
Another essential question! Depending on the seabed, one type of anchor or another will be more suitable. As a general rule, in order not to damage the seabed and also because the maneuver becomes easier, we prefer sandy areas. On the other hand, here in the entire protected area of Cap de Creus it is strictly forbidden to anchor in the Posidonia meadows. The Posidonia meadows are protected in the four corners of the world, these areas actively participate in the balance of marine life. Let's take care of them 😉
Facing the wind
It's easier and less risky! When starting the mooring maneuver, and for most types of maneuvers, it is recommended to position the boat upwind. The mooring in this direction is also checked.
Three times the depth
It is on average the length of chain that must be left for successful anchoring. Depending on the escape, more or less chain length can be released. Approximately, therefore, it is necessary to count three times the depth. Good anchor strength depends on the weight of the chain and not on the anchor. Therefore, the longer the anchor, the better the anchor will hold.
Reverse
You always have to check the anchor. To do this, you must face the wind and test the anchor by trying to pull it. For this, if it is blowing, the wind test will suffice. If there is little or no wind, feel free to back up.
Where and how to moor on the Costa Brava?
Along the Costa Brava, each port offers a buoy system.
In the port of Roses and its neighboring coves such as Montjoi, La Pelosa ... You can reserve and rent a buoy through the App of the Port of Roses. In high season, for a day and for a boat between 10 and 15 meters, it costs a little more than € 30.
In Cadaqués you can also reserve and rent your buoy directly through the Web. There the price is slightly higher. Boat taxi service is available.
We remind you that along Cap de Creus and the Illes Medes it is absolutely forbidden to anchor in the heart of the Posidonia meadows.
Further down in Begur you have to be careful because the buoys are usually reserved for the whole season and for boats of less than 8 meters.
On board your ship, VHF channel 9 will allow you to get in touch with each of the ports.
Have a great summer all of you!
