Anchoring a boat in Pula is simple once you understand the basics.
If you are planning to rent a boat in Pula, understanding how to anchor is essential. Before leaving the marina, we explain everything to our guests so you feel confident and safe on the water.
Choosing the right spot
No anchoring sign
Once you find a place where you would like to anchor, take a moment to check your surroundings.
Look for any signs indicating that anchoring is not allowed. If there are no signs, check your onboard navigation.
All our boats are equipped with Simrad navigation systems with sonar, so you can clearly see your location, depth and all the essential information needed at sea.
Restricted zones must always be checked on navigation charts and local signs.
For example, anchoring is not allowed in Brijuni National Park, and fines can be issued. Always make sure you are outside protected areas.
Check the depth carefully. If the water is too deep, you may not have enough chain, so move to a safer depth.
Keep enough distance from other boats, swimmers and the shore. Choose a calm and open spot.
Positioning before anchoring
Position the bow of the boat facing into the wind.
If you are not sure about wind direction:
- look at other boats
- or check the flag on your boat
Step-by-step anchoring
Lower the anchor slowly.
When it reaches the bottom, gently move the boat in reverse while releasing the chain. This allows the chain to lay properly on the seabed.
Chain length
Always release 3 to 5 times the depth.
Example:
5 meters depth = 15-25 meters of chain
The goal is to keep the angle low so the anchor holds firmly.
Anchoring is easier on sand than on rocks or sea grass.
However, sandy seabeds are rare in this part of the Adriatic, so extra care is needed.
Engine during anchoring
Keep the engine running while lowering and raising the anchor.
Why:
- you can react immediately if something goes wrong
- you can reposition the boat safely
- electric systems can drain battery if engine is off
On our boats, we have a safety switch installed, and we will show you how to reset it.
Manual backup
All our boats are equipped with a manual windlass handle.
If the electric system fails, the anchor can always be raised manually. We will show you where it is and how to use it.
Check if anchor is holding
Pick a fixed point on land or another boat.
If you are not moving, the anchor is holding.
Engine position
Do not trim the engine up while anchored.
The engine should stay in the water:
- for safety (injury risk on propeller)
- to avoid trim failure issues
We will also explain manual trim in another guide.
Once everything is secure:
- turn off the engine
- remove the key
- place it in a safe location
Lower the ladder and enjoy the sea.
Our boats
On our boats, different types of anchors are used.
Our Thor boats use electric Bruce (claw) anchors, while the Jaguar uses a manual grapnel anchor.
Each boat comes with approximately 30 meters of chain and rope, which is sufficient for most anchoring situations around Pula.
Before departure, we will always show you how everything works.
For beginners, boat rental in Pula is simple when you understand these basics.
Grapnel Anchor
Bruce Anchor
While at anchor
Always stay aware of your surroundings.
Keep enough distance from:
- other boats
- the shore
If the wind changes, the boat will swing around the anchor.
Also, onboard devices such as the radio use battery power. If used too much, the battery can drain and you may not be able to start the engine.
The skipper should always keep one eye on the boat.
No matter how much you enjoy, the skipper is responsible for safety.
Do not leave the boat unattended while anchored.
For that, proper mooring is required (covered in another guide).
Leaving the anchoring spot
Before moving:
- make sure everyone is on board
- clear the deck
- children wear life jackets
- lift and secure the ladder (ladder in water can hit propeller)
Check around the boat for swimmers and objects.
Start the engine and move slowly toward the anchor while raising it.
One person can stand at the bow and guide.
When the anchor is fully raised:
- it must be properly secured
- no movement allowed
Only then continue navigation.
Possible problems when anchoring
Anchor is not holding
Raise it, reposition and try again.
Boat is drifting while swimming
If you notice the boat is moving, get everyone to safety or back on board immediately.
Start the engine and repeat anchoring.
Anchor is stuck
Do not pull hard.
Try:
- different angle
- reduce tension
If needed, one person can enter the water and pull the chain in the opposite direction.
Engine must be off. Always stay clear of the propeller.
Last option
If conditions become unsafe (weather or night):
Detach or cut the line, attach a buoy and leave the anchor.
You can return later when conditions are safe.
If you are looking for the best spots to swim and relax, you can also explore some of the hidden beaches near Pula
At the end of the day, the goal is simple — relax, enjoy the sea and make the most of your time on the water.
Find more practical tips and boating advice in our Boat Guide for Pula and the Adriatic