An anchor alarm is useful only when its position, watch area and notifications are set up correctly. This practical guide explains how to prepare AnchorHoy and what to check while your boat is at anchor.
1. Choose the device that stays aboard
Use a phone with reliable GPS as the boat device. Keep it powered, protected from water and heat, and positioned where reception is good. The shore device displays information sent by the boat device; its own position does not describe the boat. An internet connection is needed at both ends for remote monitoring.
2. Allow location and notifications
Enable precise location, the background location permission requested by the app, and notifications. Follow any warning shown in AnchorHoy or the phone settings. Start the watch and test with the screen locked. Do not assume a successful test with the app open proves that background alerts work.
3. Set the area around the anchor
Enter chain length, water depth and the direction the wind comes from. The app estimates the anchor position from the starting boat position and these inputs; check that the map makes sense. The watch radius is measured from the anchor, not the boat's initial position. A 50 m radius means 50 m from the anchor; chain length is not added to that limit. Choose a boundary appropriate to nearby hazards, normal swing and GPS uncertainty, rather than copying another boat's setting.
4. Connect and test the shore device
Use the invitation or QR-code flow to connect the second device. Confirm that the boat's position and latest contact are updating. Send a test alarm and check that it reaches the shore phone with its screen locked and the sound settings you intend to use. Remote access may require an active subscription; check the app's subscription screen.
5. Read GPS freshness and the track
Check GPS time and accuracy as well as last contact. A recent server connection does not necessarily mean a fresh GPS fix. A dotted track shows reported past positions, not a prediction; GPS drift can create a small cluster even while stationary. If fixes are old or inaccurate, improve reception and check permissions. Do not simply enlarge the area to hide a GPS warning.
6. Respond to alarms
Check the boat and the reported position promptly when a boundary, GPS or connection alert appears. Acknowledging an alert does not fix its cause. Repeat the connection and locked-screen test after changing devices or important settings. AnchorHoy supports your watch; it does not replace proper anchoring, weather assessment or the skipper's responsibility.