Anchor Scope - Chain Length Requirement
Anchor-chain scope (length paid out) recommended for holding at different conditions - conservative rule-of-thumb multiplier on water depth.
Chain to pay out
180m
Shackles (of 15 fathoms)
7shackles
Formula, assumptions, and limits
One shackle = 15 fathoms = 27.432 m. Total chain typically 10–12 shackles for merchant ships. Check actual chain marks and follow company SMS.
Symbol legend
| Symbol | Meaning | Unit | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water depth | m | echo sounder | |
| Scope multiplier | - | operational practice |