Which of the following is a safe practice when anchoring a vessel?

Choosing a location where the seabed is likely to hold the anchor firmly is a safe practice when anchoring a vessel. This choice reflects an understanding of how anchoring works and the importance of the seabed composition in ensuring that the anchor performs effectively. If the seabed material is soft or composed of loose materials, the anchor may not set properly, leading to potential drift and risk of collisions with other vessels or hazards.

Selecting an appropriate location where the anchor can grip well is crucial for the stability of the vessel while anchored, especially in challenging weather conditions that may result in strong winds or currents. Additionally, the chosen location should be free from obstacles that could impede the anchor's effectiveness or pose hazards to navigation.

While it’s wise to avoid anchoring in busy shipping lanes to reduce the risk of collisions, or to be cautious about anchoring at night and in crowded spaces, these considerations are secondary to the fundamental importance of the anchor's ability to hold the vessel securely. A good anchoring practice should always begin with assessing the seabed to ensure a safe and secure anchoring situation.