ULTRA Anchor
Anchors have been around for thousands of years and the quest for the perfect anchor is one of every boater’s life-long quests. Popular anchors come and go, but the ULTRA anchor is one that we think is going to stay around for a long while.
Contents of Report
Size and Weight Proportions
First, its geometry makes it applicable whether used thru-the-stem, integrated into a pulpit, or as part of a standard roller setup. They run from 5 to 360 kg (11-800 lbs.) and the weight detail is stamped right into the shank, along with the serial number.
The eye is reinforced to prevent bending or breaking. ULTRA Marine tells us that the shank is 3 1/18” LN duplex stainless-steel and is likely the strongest anchor on the market. The entire shank is hollow – allowing weight to be concentrated on the lead-filled tip, so it never lands upside down. The tip always falls into attack position. This is one key to its effectiveness.
That tip is curved so it digs in and stays set even when rotating from a tide swing, thanks to the side swing plates that prevent the ULTRA Anchor from being pulled sideways. It is simply pulled out because it is one piece, and sets again. The angles allow it to set, even if it lands against a rock. The concave base has the appearance of a shovel and it has a greater surface area than some conventional anchors.
Our favorite feature has to be the clever anti-foul bar. This ensures that the chain simply cannot wrap around the shank and it provides the ability to attach a trip line. Plus, it makes the anchor easier to carry because it is heavy.
Swivels
ULTRA Marine also makes its own swivels and they are extraordinary. It connects the chain and the anchor without the need for shackles. It allows a 30-degree rotation and 360-degree swivel, so it can recover the anchor right-side-up and allows the anchor to enter the roller correctly every time.
How it Performs
So, in action, the ULTRA Anchor lands in the correct position every time. Put about a 45-degree angle on the rode from the roller and then put a strain on it. The ULTRA Anchor digs in and holds in minimal distance, usually within its own length. The more pull, the more it digs in.
Even when the ULTRA Anchor lands on its side, it still returns to attack position and holds. Recovery works in the traditional way – drive over the anchor, add a strain, and up she comes.
These hand-polished stainless-steel anchors are not only functional but certainly add to the class factor of our boats. If the anchor is going to be on permanent display, the ULTRA anchor will make its owner proud.
Observations
Anchoring can be a difficult job for some people, but having the right tool makes the job easier. In our experience, the ULTRA Anchor presents an addition to any boat’s ground tackle that eases the job and makes everyone look like a professional.
ULTRA Marine stands behind its anchor with a lifetime warranty against failure – the swivel is warrantied for five years. Couple that security with performance and good looks, and it’s easy to see why we’re seeing these anchors on more and more boats.
One of BoatTEST’s staffers used an ULTRA anchor in Alaskan sand, mud, and rocks, and found that it set immediately in all three of these conditions. BoatTEST recommends this anchor.