Definition

1. Noun:
   • A device used to stabilize a boat or ship in open water, especially in heavy weather. It is a form of drag anchor, typically consisting of a canvas cone or parachute-like structure that is deployed from the bow (front) of the vessel into the water. It does not touch the seabed but creates significant water resistance to slow the vessel's drift and keep it pointed into the wind and waves.

Usage

• The primary function of a sea anchor is to provide stability and control to a vessel that cannot safely proceed under power or sail, preventing it from turning broadside to the waves (broaching).
• It is a critical piece of safety equipment for small boats and yachts during storms.
• The term is used specifically for this type of floating drag device, as opposed to a conventional anchor that grips the seabed.

Examples

• "The sailors deployed the sea anchor to ride out the storm safely."
• "Without a sea anchor, the small fishing boat would have been tossed uncontrollably by the large swells."
• "A properly sized sea anchor can prevent a vessel from drifting dangerously towards a lee shore."

Advanced Usage

• "To stream a sea anchor": To deploy or set a sea anchor by letting it out from the vessel into the water.
  • The captain ordered the crew to stream the sea anchor as the winds intensified.
• "To ride to a sea anchor": To be secured or held in position by a deployed sea anchor.
  • The yacht rode to its sea anchor for over twelve hours during the gale.

Variants and Related Words

• Drogue (noun): A general term for a device trailed behind a boat to create drag. A sea anchor is a specific type of large drogue. Smaller drogues are often used for speed control rather than storm survival.
• Drift anchor (noun): Another term for a sea anchor, emphasizing its function to control drift.

Synonyms

• Drogue
• Drift anchor
• Storm anchor
• Floating anchor

Related Phrases

• "Heaving to": A sailing maneuver that positions the vessel almost stationary, often using sails and sometimes a sea anchor. Using a sea anchor is one method to help a vessel heave to.
• "Lying ahull": A storm tactic where all sails are taken down and the vessel is allowed to drift. This is different from using a sea anchor, which provides active stabilization.

Noun

1. restraint consisting of a canvas covered frame that floats behind a vessel; prevents drifting or maintains the heading into a wind