Vertical Axis Windlasses

Matching a vertical windlass to your locker

A vertical axis windlass mounts with the motor and gearbox below deck, which needs enough depth in the anchor locker for the chain to fall clear and coil rather than piling up under the gypsy. Before choosing a model, measure the available locker depth, then match the gypsy to your chain's exact size and calibre, since a gypsy cut for the wrong chain will slip or jam under load.

Motor power is specified against chain size and typical anchor weight rather than boat length alone, so oversized ground tackle needs a windlass rated for it even on a smaller hull. Confirm system voltage, 12V or 24V, before ordering, and run the supply cable at a gauge suited to the distance from the battery, since a long, undersized run causes voltage drop under the heavy current a windlass draws.