Anyone who anchors a motorboat will be familiar with the situation: the anchor is on the seabed, the chain is under tension, and the windlass should not be subjected to a constant load. An anchor line, often called a snubber, then takes the load between the chain and the boat. It also dampens movements when swells or a freshening wind pull on the anchor gear.
However, when hauling in the anchor, the sling can prove rather impractical. Conventional chain hooks usually have to be unloaded and released at the bow. In strong winds and rough seas, this is no pleasant task.
Unclip the quick-release fastener instead of the chain hook
The SnubberBuddy is a quick-release fastener that clips directly onto the anchor chain. The sling can then be loaded as normal, and further chain can be paid out if required. To release the connection, a separate release line is pulled. The fastener opens and the sling separates from the chain.
The release line can be operated from the bow or routed all the way into the cockpit. This provides an added safety benefit, particularly as it means the skipper does not have to go up to the foredeck to retrieve the anchor. This is a major advantage, especially when the wind suddenly picks up or when more chain needs to be let out quickly.
Which chains is the SnubberBuddy suitable for?
The manufacturer offers the SnubberBuddy for 8 mm, 10 mm and 12 mm anchor chains in accordance with ISO and DIN standards. The specified working load is 1,375 kg, and the breaking load is 5,500 kg. The price is 249 euros. It is important not to view the anchor sling as a mere convenience accessory, but as part of a fully functional anchor rig. This also includes sufficient chain length, a suitable anchorage, the correct swing radius and regular checks on the anchor’s position. BOOTE explains the basics of this in the article Everything you need to know about anchoring.
Book recommendations
Boats - Logbook brings together essential practical knowledge for motorboat skippers in a compact format. Produced in collaboration with the BOOTE editorial team, the book covers seamanship, the weather, trip planning and typical situations on board. It is particularly useful for handling the anchor line, as it does not treat the aspects of anchoring in isolation, but presents them as part of safe and well-prepared boating practice.
New to the team is aimed at new crew members and beginners on sailing and motor boats. The guide explains nautical basics, lines, knots, manoeuvres, anchoring and what to do in emergency situations. It thus complements the ‘Practical Checklist’, particularly for readers who wish to understand why a properly prepared anchorage and well-rehearsed procedures on board are more important than any single piece of equipment.
Do you use an anchor sling? Please share your experiences and the pros and cons of your solution in the comments.
Hauke Schmidt
Test & Technology editor
