How do you calculate swing-circle for navigation?

Answer 1

The swing circle is calculated by determining the distance from the center of the vessel's anchor to the outermost point of the vessel's bow or stern when at anchor. This distance is typically measured by adding the length of the vessel to the length of the anchor rode (the chain or line connecting the anchor to the vessel). The swing circle represents the area in which the vessel may drift while at anchor, helping navigators to avoid collisions with other vessels or obstacles. It’s essential to account for tidal changes and wind effects when assessing the swing circle.