Where should you lower an anchor?

Lowering an anchor over the bow of the boat is the correct practice because this position allows for the most effective anchoring. When the anchor is deployed from the bow, it enables the anchor chain to run straight down into the water, ensuring a proper setting of the anchor on the seabed. This orientation helps prevent the boat from swinging or drifting unnecessarily, which can occur if the anchor is lowered from other parts of the vessel.

Lowering the anchor from the stern could lead to complications such as the anchor dragging if the boat is moving forward or not setting properly. Similarly, lowering the anchor over the side could result in an angled drop, which might hinder its ability to set well on the bottom. Deploying the anchor from the top deck is impractical and could create safety hazards, as well as complicate the anchoring process for the crew. Thus, lowering the anchor from the bow provides the best stability and effectiveness for anchoring a boat securely.