Free Shipping on orders over $99*
My Account
Customer Service

Speak to a specialist :

📞 (410) 267-8681
✉️ info@fawcettboat.com

Opening Hours :

Mon–Fri: 9am – 6pm

Sat: 9am – 4pm

Shipping Policy

Return Policy

  Track Order
My Cart

Windlasses

(55 products)
View as

Boat Windlasses Power Systems for Effortless Anchor Retrieval

A boat windlass is an essential piece of equipment that handles the heavy labor of deploying and retrieving your anchor, chain, and rode. Windlasses use mechanical or electric power to haul heavy loads, making the process of anchoring safe, convenient, and strain free. At Fawcett Boat Supplies, we offer premium boat windlasses and windlass components to ensure secure, efficient, and comfortable anchoring on any size vessel. Shop our selection of boat windlass for sale to upgrade your anchoring system.

Understanding the Boat Windlass

Simply put, what is a windlass on a boat? It is a specialized winch mounted on deck, typically forward, designed specifically to manage the anchor rode (rope and/or chain). It uses a vertically oriented drum (capstan) for line, and a ribbed wheel (gypsy) for chain. This mechanical advantage allows a single person to lift hundreds of pounds of anchor and chain effortlessly.

We carry systems from the most respected names in the industry, including Lewmar windlass for sale and accessories from brands like Maxwell winches for sale.

Types of Windlasses and Operation

The main differentiation between windlasses relates to how the rode is retrieved:

  • Vertical Windlasses: The motor and gearbox are mounted below deck, leaving only the gypsy and capstan visible. They are popular because they minimize deck clutter and offer superior line-handling capabilities.
  • Horizontal Windlasses: The entire unit is mounted above deck. These are often easier to install on smaller vessels and require less depth below the deck for installation.

Whether you have a vertical or horizontal model, the process of safe anchoring remains similar. If you need to know how to anchor a boat with a windlass, the windlass is used primarily for retrieval. When dropping anchor, the windlass brake and clutch control the speed of the anchor drop. Once the anchor is set, the windlass is typically locked off, transferring the load to a cleat or snubber to protect the machinery.

Chain, Rode, and Components

Our selection provides everything needed for a complete installation, from the unit itself to specialized components:

  • Chain Windlass Systems: We specialize in chain windlass units designed to handle calibrated anchor chain smoothly and reliably.
  • Gypsy and Drum: We supply individual gypsies and capstans designed to match your specific anchor chain or rope diameter.
  • Power and Controls: Find heavy duty solenoids, wiring, switches, and remote controls for convenient operation from the helm or deck.
  • Boat Supply Windlasses Components: Our comprehensive boat supply windlasses stock ensures you can find crucial replacement parts, maintenance kits, and specialized hardware necessary to keep your system performing flawlessly.

Trust Fawcett Boat Supplies for the power and reliability you need for safe and stress free anchoring.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a windlass on a boat, and how does it work?

A windlass boat is a mechanical or electric machine mounted on deck, used to haul heavy loads of anchor and rode. It works by using a gypsy (for chain) and/or a capstan (for rope) driven by a powerful motor, giving the operator the mechanical advantage needed to raise the anchor effortlessly.

Are both electric and manual windlasses available?

Yes, both options are available. While the term electric boat anchors usually refers to electric windlasses, we also stock manual windlasses and components for smaller boats or as a reliable backup system. We supply top brands like Lewmar windlass for sale.

How do I ensure my chain windlass is compatible with my anchor chain?

A chain windlass is designed to work with a specific size and pitch of calibrated anchor chain (e.g., 5/16" G4 high test). You must match the windlass gypsy to the chain you are using. Our product descriptions for boat windlasses clearly list the compatible chain size and type.

How should I anchor a boat with a windlass to avoid damage?

How to anchor a boat with a windlass properly involves using the windlass only for retrieval. When anchored, the load must be removed from the windlass and transferred to a cleat or snubber (using a chain stopper or line hook). This prevents wind or wave forces from damaging the windlass gearbox or motor.

What major brands do you stock in your boat supply windlasses collection?

We ensure our boat supply windlasses collection features industry leaders. Customers looking for reliable systems can find Lewmar windlass for sale, as well as winches and related gear from brands like Maxwell, ensuring the highest quality and availability of parts.

Compare /3