How should a vessel's anchor be secured?

Securing a vessel's anchor properly is crucial for ensuring safety and stability when the vessel is at rest. The best practice is to secure the anchor to a cleat or bow eye using sufficient line. This method provides a strong and reliable connection between the anchor and the vessel, allowing it to effectively hold the boat in position, especially in changing weather conditions or currents.

Using a cleat or bow eye distributes the load appropriately and reduces the risk of the anchor becoming dislodged. Sufficient line ensures that there is enough length for the anchor to function effectively, allowing it to set properly on the bottom.

Other approaches, such as connecting the anchor with a rope that can easily come loose, are unreliable and can lead to the anchor slipping free, compromising the vessel's stability. Directly attaching the anchor to the boat's body can lead to damage or failure in the connection points, particularly under stress. Not securing the anchor at all is highly unsafe, as it could result in the vessel drifting uncontrollably. Therefore, option B is the best and safest choice for securing a vessel's anchor.