Premium Marine Anchor Winches & Windlasses

A vertical windlass has the motor and gearbox hidden below deck, with only the gypsy (chain wheel) above deck. It provides a lower profile and more deck space. A horizontal windlass is fully enclosed in a single housing above deck, which is ideal if you have limited below-deck locker space.

Winch sizing depends on your boat's length, displacement (weight), and windage. A general rule is the winch's maximum pull should be at least three times the total weight of your anchor and rode (chain/rope). Always refer to our Windlass Selection Guide for precise calculations.

Yes. Most modern Muir windlasses are equipped with a Rope/Chain Gypsy that allows seamless transition from a rope rode to a chain leader without requiring user intervention.

A free-fall winch allows the anchor to drop by gravity rather than powering it down with the motor. This allows for extremely rapid deployment, ensuring you hit your exact desired anchoring spot, which is especially popular among fishermen.

Muir winches are built for low maintenance, but regular washing with fresh water after saltwater use is recommended. Annually, you should inspect electrical connections, check the gearbox oil (if applicable), and grease the main shaft.

For smaller vessels, the winch is typically run off the engine start battery (with the engine running to provide alternator power). For larger yachts or commercial systems, a dedicated battery bank near the bow is often installed to prevent voltage drop over long cable runs.

A drum winch is a spooling system where all the chain and rope is wrapped neatly around a central drum (similar to a fishing reel). They are highly popular on trailer boats as they don't require a deep anchor locker to gravity-feed the chain.

No. A windlass is a retrieval device, not a mooring point. Once anchored, the load must be taken off the winch by using a chain stopper, snubber, or by tying the rope to a secure deck cleat to prevent damaging the winch gearbox.

Jamming usually occurs if the chain size/pitch does not perfectly match the gypsy. It can also happen if the anchor locker is too shallow, causing the chain to "pyramid" and back up into the hawse pipe. Ensure your chain is properly calibrated to the winch.

Muir is proudly an Australian manufacturer. Our marine anchor winches, windlasses, and custom anchoring systems are engineered and manufactured in our state-of-the-art facility in Tasmania, Australia, before being shipped globally.