How to anchor safely and reduce the impacts on marine environment

"Improper anchoring, discharged bilge water, littering, noise, speed boats and various human activities can be very harmful to the natural environment. It is necessary that each individual takes responsibility for their actions in order to prevent irreparable damage."

Association for Nature, Environment and Sustainable Development Sunce

Financed by the "European Commission" (EuropeAid), "Fonds Francais pour l'Environment Mondial" (FFEM) and "MAVA Foundation", the "Association for Nature, Environment and Sustainable Development Sunce" recently issued an educational leaflet on safe anchorage with the aim to encourage boaters to choose the safest way to anchor while reducing the impact on marine environment?

Here are some recommendations you might find useful.

When anchoring on rocky and coral bottom there is a higher possibility of the anchor getting stuck and the chain and anchor destroy species living there. Anchoring in sand is safe and it does not damage the bottom.

6 steps to a correct anchoring:

• Approach the anchoring place facing the wind and identify a clear bottom zone (sand bottom). Avoid anchoring in Posidonia meadows.
• Throw the anchor when the boat is stopped. The anchor size has to suit the size of the boat.
• Release the anchor chain (at a length 3 times the water depth) while the boat is slowly going backwards.
• Wait until the bow turns into the direction of the wind and check if the mooring holds.
• Upon leaving, move the boat to the position directly above the anchor and then pull up the anchor.
• If you find fragments of Caulerpa on the chain or anchor dispose it in a trash can. Do not return it to the sea!

Sea is the source of life. Protect the sea, preserve life. Thank you!