Best Boat Windlasses of 2025
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Boat windlasses are an essential piece of equipment for any boater. These devices are designed to help lift and anchor boats with ease. They come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit any type of boat. Some windlasses are manual, while others are electric or hydraulic. They are typically mounted on the bow of the boat and are used to hoist the anchor up and down. Windlasses can make a huge difference in the ease and safety of anchoring, as they take the strain off the crew and ensure that the anchor is secure.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
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9.5
Top 10 Boat Windlasses
Lewmar V700 G 12V Vertical Windlasses
The Lewmar V700 G 12V Vertical Windlasses is a 100% 316 stainless steel deck unit with an IP rated housing designed for boats up to 10.5m (35 ft.). This windlass is perfect for those who need a durable and reliable anchor system on their boat. Its stainless steel construction ensures it will last for years to come, while the IP rated housing protects it from harsh marine environments.
Lewmar Pro Sport 550 Windlass
The Lewmar Pro Sport 550 Windlass is the perfect anchoring solution for boats ranging from 20' to 30'. With its highly efficient spur gearbox and powerful magnet motors, anchoring has never been easier. Simply push a button and watch as the windlass effortlessly moves rope and chain. Installation is a breeze with the DIY above-deck installation and push button control. This low-profile system includes everything you need, from the windlass itself to the circuit breaker, toggle switch, base gasket seal, mounting studs, and installation wrench. Constructed with tough composite aluminum, this compact and durable windlass has a maximum pull of 550 lbs, making it ideal for smaller boats. Trust in Lewmar, a trusted brand in the industry since 1946, for all your anchoring needs.
Lewmar PRO-Series 700 Pro-Series Windlass
This boat windlass features a powerful motor that offers fast line speed, manual emergency recovery with a common 1/2 socket wrench, and maximum pulling power of 320kg (700 lb.) for boats up to 12m (38ft).
Lewmar PRO-Fish 700 Windlass
The Lewmar PRO-Fish 700 Windlass is a powerful and reliable tool for boats up to 12m (38ft). It features automatic freefall and a powerful motor that provides fast line speed. With a maximum pulling power of 320kg (700 lb.), this windlass is perfect for heavy-duty tasks. It comes with a 5-year warranty and is ideal for boating enthusiasts.
Five Oceans Vertical Windlass Kit
The Five Oceans Windlass Kit is a high-performance vertical windlass designed for boats up to 60 Ft / 18 m. With its powerful 1500 Watts motor, it provides a maximum pulling power of 2645 Lb / 1200 Kg, allowing you to easily anchor your boat. The kit includes a 3-Wire Solenoid and a 135A Circuit Breaker for smooth and safe operation. It also comes with an Up/Down Foot Switch and a Rocker Switch for convenient control. Made of durable marine-grade materials, such as solid polished and anodized 316 Stainless Steel Housing, this windlass is built to withstand the high-load strain. Its rope and chain management system, along with the vertical rotation about the deck, ensures efficient and space-saving installation. Get the Five Oceans Windlass Kit for reliable and hassle-free anchoring on your boat.
Five Oceans Vertical Windlass Kit - Pacific 600 Watt
Introducing the Five Oceans Vertical Windlass, the perfect addition to your boat. This high-performance motor provides a maximum pulling power of 992 Lb / 450 Kg, allowing for a drop speed of 69 feet per minute. With its rope and chain management system, you can easily handle 1/4 Inch HT G4 chain and 1/2 Inch (12mm) - 3 Strand rope. Made with marine-grade durable materials, this windlass is designed to withstand high-load strain. The vertical installation allows for reduced volume above the deck, making it ideal for boats up to 35 Ft / 10 m. Upgrade your boat with the Five Oceans Vertical Windlass and experience its convenience and functionality.
Five Oceans Atlantic 600 Windlass
The Five Oceans Windlass 600 is a powerful anchor system designed for boats up to 35 feet. With its robust 600-watt motor, it delivers impressive pulling power of up to 1200 pounds, making anchoring effortless for you. The system includes a unique gypsy that manages both rope and chain, ensuring smooth operation. Its marine-grade stainless steel construction guarantees durability, even under heavy loads. Additionally, the waterproof motor allows you to use it in various marine conditions, providing peace of mind while you're out on the water.
Maxwell RC8 12V Windlass
The Maxwell RC8 12V Windlass is a powerful and reliable electric windlass designed for boats. It has a 1000W motor and can handle 5/16 inch chain and 5/8 inch rope. The windlass is easy to install and use, making it a great choice for boaters looking for a high-quality windlass.
Powerwinch Freefall Anchor Windlass
The Powerwinch Anchor Windlass is perfect for 41-foot class boats, offering a free-fall anchoring system that allows you to drop your anchor quickly and precisely. With a drop speed of 300 feet per minute, you can anchor your boat exactly where you want, eliminating the hassle of drifting. The stainless-steel rope and fasteners ensure durability, while watertight seals protect against water damage. When it’s time to retrieve, the windlass works at a speed of 75 feet per minute, making the process efficient and straightforward. Weighing only 23 pounds, it’s easy to handle and comes with a 3-year warranty for peace of mind.
South Bend Components Vertical Windlass C612
The South Bend Windlass System offers powerful anchoring solutions for boats between 20 to 35 feet. Its robust 600W motor provides a maximum pulling capacity of 1200 lbs, ensuring that you can confidently manage your anchor in various conditions. Made from premium 316 stainless steel, this windlass is built to resist corrosion, making it durable for long-term use. Additionally, its versatile gypsy accommodates both 1/4 inch HT G4 chain and 1/2 inch rope, giving you flexibility in your anchoring setups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the two types of windlass?
There are two main types of windlasses: horizontal and vertical. A horizontal windlass has the main shaft positioned horizontally, while a vertical windlass has the shaft mounted vertically. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose the one that suits your specific needs.
2. What are the advantages of a windlass?
A windlass offers several advantages for handling and tensioning mooring chains. Once the chain is hauled in and tensioned, a chain stopper or brake is engaged to hold the chain securely. While a windlass may take up more space compared to a linear chain jack, it provides a fast and reliable method for handling and tensioning mooring chains during both pull-in and pay-out operations.
During our boat windlass research, we found 24 boat windlass products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,047 customer reviews through our big data system to write the boat windlasses list. We found that most customers choose boat windlasses with an average price of $1,354.96.
The boat windlasses are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of boat windlasses, including Lewmar, Five Oceans, MAXWELL, Boating Accessories, South Bend Components. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 379 consumers with an average rating of 4.4.
Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.