Anchor angst

Matey recently had one of those ‘Ah-ha!’ moments.

Clearly, it’s vital to have a good anchor that, like a true friend, you can rely on in all weather. The importance of a good anchor cannot be overstated, however, in addition to the cogitation required to ensure the right anchoring solution is in use, Matey's ever-keen radar has detected a wee bit of stress associated with anchoring, on occasion.

A likely reason for this was an anchoring incident a few years ago, in which Captain almost lost a finger, and several stitches were required. Now, if this were not traumatic enough, Captain recently let it slip that the sad but true Tale of the Lost Spleen – Captain has a very large scar as proof – also came about as a result of an anchoring incident (long, long ago in the Captain’s Navy days).

Matey was familiar with the history of the Captain’s spleen, but hadn’t realised (recalled?) that it was due to an accident involving a very large anchor. To make matters worse – it ended up being a near death experience thanks to Dr Dodgy’s lack of diagnosis. Several days after the accident, Captain was still languishing with deteriorating health and in terrible pain, until finally it was realised his spleen had been ruptured and needed to be extracted urgently – just hours before certain death! So, given this, it’s not really surprising that the notion of anchoring has at times brought with it a teensy bit of tension. The bright light of understanding illuminates!

Captain has continued to research and cogitate over the anchor, and bravely discuss anchors with all who share his ‘interest’, learning much and slowly coming to a decision he is happy with. A ‘new generation’ Rocna is to be collected today, while the Delta will be retained to assist in extreme weather events.

Matey hopes she will have many more ‘Ah-ha!’ moments as all things marine and nautical make sense. May the Captain’s spleen rest in peace.