What Are The Three Main Types Of Windlasses Available For Boats? A Guide To Manual, Electric & Hydraulic

To be clear, a boat windlass is categorized in two distinct ways: by its power source and by the orientation of its main shaft. The three primary types defined by power source are manual, electric, and hydraulic. Separately, the two main types defined by orientation are vertical and horizontal.

The most critical decision is not simply choosing a "type" of windlass, but understanding how its power source and physical orientation align with your boat's size, electrical system, and available space.

What are the three main types of windlasses available for boats? A Guide to Manual, Electric & Hydraulic

The Two Ways to Categorize a Windlass

To select the right windlass, you must consider two independent characteristics. First, how it's powered. Second, how it's mounted on your deck.

Power Source: The Engine of the System

This determines how you generate the force to lift the anchor. The choice directly impacts convenience, cost, and installation complexity.

Shaft Orientation: The On-Deck Layout

This determines the windlass's physical shape and how it integrates with your deck and anchor locker. It affects both aesthetics and function.

Categorization by Power Source

This is the most fundamental distinction, defining the windlass's core operation and dependency on your boat's systems.

Manual Windlasses

A manual windlass is operated by human power, typically using a long lever or crank. It uses mechanical leverage to make lifting the anchor manageable.

They are valued for their ultimate simplicity and reliability. With no motors or wiring, there are fewer points of failure, and they are not dependent on your boat's battery.

However, they are physically demanding and much slower than powered options, especially when retrieving a significant amount of anchor chain.

Electric Windlasses

This is the most common type for modern recreational boats. An electric windlass uses a powerful 12V or 24V DC motor to turn the gypsy and retrieve the anchor.

Their primary advantage is convenience. Raising the anchor is as simple as pressing a button, making anchoring a far less strenuous task.

The main drawback is their reliance on a robust electrical system. They draw significant current, requiring heavy-gauge wiring and sufficient battery capacity to operate effectively.

Hydraulic Windlasses

Hydraulic windlasses are driven by fluid pressure from a hydraulic pump, which is typically powered by the main engine or a generator.

These systems offer immense, reliable power and are standard on larger yachts and commercial vessels where the anchor weight is substantial.

For most recreational boats, hydraulic systems are prohibitively complex and expensive to install unless the vessel already has an existing hydraulic system for other equipment.

Categorization by Shaft Orientation

This choice is driven by your boat's deck layout, the space in your anchor locker, and your personal preference for on-deck aesthetics.

Vertical Windlasses

A vertical windlass has a vertical driveshaft. The gypsy and capstan are visible on deck, while the motor and gearbox are housed directly below in the anchor locker.

This design offers a lower profile on deck, which many find more attractive. It also allows the chain to wrap around the gypsy for a greater arc (typically 180°), providing a more secure grip.

The main challenge is installation. It requires significant vertical space directly beneath the unit for the motor and gearbox, which may not be available on all boats.

Horizontal Windlasses

A horizontal windlass has a horizontal driveshaft, with the motor, gearbox, and gypsy all mounted on-deck in a single, self-contained unit.

This configuration is often easier to install, as it requires only a few holes through the deck for bolts and wiring. It is also a better solution for boats with smaller or unusually shaped anchor lockers.

The trade-off is a larger on-deck footprint. The entire unit is visible, which can be a consideration for deck space and aesthetics.

Making the Right Choice for Your Boat

Your decision should be a practical one based on your vessel and how you use it.

If your primary focus is simplicity and reliability on a smaller boat (under 35 feet): A manual windlass is a robust, cost-effective choice that eliminates any electrical concerns.
If your primary focus is convenience on a mid-sized recreational boat: An electric windlass is the clear winner; choose a vertical model for a clean deck if you have the locker space, or a horizontal model for simpler installation.
If your primary focus is immense power for a large vessel (over 50 feet): A hydraulic windlass provides the performance and durability required for heavy ground tackle.

Ultimately, selecting the right windlass is about matching the equipment to the specific demands of your boat and your style of boating.

Summary Table:

Categorization	Type	Key Features	Best For
By Power Source	Manual	Human-powered, simple, reliable, no electrical drain	Smaller boats (<35 ft), simplicity-focused owners
	Electric	12V/24V DC motor, convenient button operation, common	Mid-sized recreational boats, convenience-focused owners
	Hydraulic	Powered by hydraulic pump, immense power, durable	Large vessels (>50 ft), yachts, commercial boats
By Orientation	Vertical	Lower deck profile, gypsy & capstan on deck, motor below	Boats with sufficient vertical anchor locker space
	Horizontal	Self-contained on-deck unit, easier installation	Boats with limited or small anchor lockers

Ready to Select the Perfect Windlass for Your Boat?

Choosing the right windlass is critical for safe and efficient anchoring. GARLWAY, a leader in marine and construction machinery, offers robust and reliable solutions tailored to your needs. We provide durable equipment for marine professionals and serious boaters worldwide.

Let us help you make the right choice. Contact our experts today for a personalized consultation and ensure your vessel is equipped for any challenge!