What is a Windlass?

A windlass is a type of winch used on boats and ships to drop and hoist anchors. Manual windlasses come with a handle that is turned to wind up the rope or chain to which the anchor is attached. We recommend a power windlass, which can pull up the anchor with the press of a button. Free Fall windlasses drop the anchor by releasing the line, which can be faster than powering it down.

Horizontal or Vertical Windlass?

Technically the term 'windlass' only refers to horizontal winches. Vertical winches are technically called capstans. Horizontal windlasses are typically more compact and aesthetically attractive, while vertical capstans are often installed below deck, thereby lowering the center of gravity. Therefore horizontal windlasses tend to be used on smaller boats, while vertical capstans are used on larger boats or ships.

Lewmar Anchor Windlass

Lewmar offers the most extensive range of winches available today, providing solutions that meet the needs of entry level sailing enthusiasts to the demands of the world's elite racers. Alongside this Lewmar provides winches that meet the functional and aesthetic requirements of new and classic Super Yachts. Aesthetic needs of smaller yachts are not forgotten with the provision of 9 different finishes available across Lewmar's Winch range. More...

Maxwell Anchor Windlass

Maxwell equipment is born of innovation and backed by years of experience. All our anchor windlasses, ancillary deck gear, stern-handling products and accessories provide a level of quality, functionality, durability and style that is unparalleled in the industry. More...

Powerwinch Anchor Windlass

A 50 year history of quality and innovation has made Powerwinch a respected leader in the Marine Industry. Powerwinch manufacturers and markets a variety of products that make boating more carefree. More...

Quick Anchor Windlass

For 40 years, Plastimo Quick has been designing, manufacturing and distributing quality marine equipment. Unique in the marine industry, Quick offers a comprehensive range of over 7,000 products, including Quick Windlasses, of which more than 60% are manufactured in our Lorient, France factory and distributed globally by over 7,500 dealers in 104 countries. More...

Muir Windlass

Muir windlasses have been the dominant force in Australian anchor windlass technology since 1968, and by industry standards they are now recognized as a leader and innovator for anchoring systems worldwide. A source for complete anchoring and docking system packages, Muir designs and manufactures the most extensive range of anchor windlasses available on the world market. More...

Lofrans Windlass

Lofrans was founded in 1966 Monza, Italy, and from the beginning they have focused their attention on a single product range: the anchor windlass. During these thirty five years all their technical skills have been oriented to manufacturing a windlass that could be considered as the finest in quality at very competitive prices. More...

Anchor Windlass Accessories

We offer windlass accessories for each of the Anchor Windlass Systems we carry, from each manufacturer. Join the thousands of Windlass-Anchor.com customers and purchase your Anchor Windlass from the Anchor Windlass Store. More...