Which part of an anchor is designed to dig into the seabed?

The fluke of an anchor is specifically designed to dig into the seabed and provide holding power. When an anchor is deployed, the fluke enters the seabed and, due to its shape and design, it exerts a force that digs deeper into the substrate as the pull on the anchor increases. This action enhances the anchor’s grip and helps to resist the forces exerted by wind, waves, and currents on the vessel.

The shank serves as the main body of the anchor, connecting the fluke to the crown, but does not play a role in penetrating the seabed. The crown is where the anchor connects to the rode (the line or chain that secures the anchor to the boat) but is not involved in the digging process. The rode transfers the load from the anchor to the boat; it is essential for holding the vessel in place but does not interact with the seabed itself.

Therefore, the fluke is the key component that engages with the seabed to secure the anchor.