Kedge Angle

MARITIME – ANCHORING & MOORING CALCULATOR Kedge Angle A precise tool.
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What is the Kedge Angle & How does it work?

Kedge anchoring is a maneuver where a vessel deploys a secondary anchor at an angle to the bow, creating a controlled pull that counteracts drift caused by wind, current, or swell. By adjusting the bearing of the kedge line, mariners can fine‑tune the vessel’s position without relying solely on the primary anchor.

The geometry of the kedge system reduces to a right‑triangle: the horizontal leg is the distance from the bow to the kedge anchor (d) and the opposite leg is the desired lateral offset (Ξ”y). The optimal bearing angle (Ξ²) follows directly from trigonometry.

\beta = \arctan\left(\frac{\Delta y}{d}\right)
\beta = optimal kedge bearing angle (radians)

In practice the calculated angle is converted to degrees and applied to the vessel’s heading. Adjustments may be needed for chain length, seabed type, or vessel draft, but the arctangent relationship remains the foundation for accurate positioning.

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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a kedge anchor?
A kedge anchor is a secondary anchor used in maritime navigation to create controlled pull and counteract drift.
How does the geometry of kedge anchoring form a right triangle?
The horizontal leg is the distance from the bow to the kedge anchor, while the opposite leg is the desired lateral offset.
Why use a kedge anchor instead of relying solely on the primary anchor?
Using a kedge anchor allows mariners to fine-tune the vessel's position without depending entirely on the primary anchor.
Can you explain how adjusting the bearing of the kedge line affects the vessel's position?
Adjusting the bearing of the kedge line changes the angle at which the secondary anchor pulls, allowing for precise control over the vessel's lateral movement.
What is the purpose of a right triangle in kedge anchoring calculations?
The right triangle helps determine the relationship between the distance from the bow to the kedge anchor and the desired lateral offset.

Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.