ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Anchorage (maritime)

Anchorage is like a big parking lot for boats in the water. Just like you need to park your bicycle or scooter in a parking lot when you go to a store or park, boats also need a safe place to stop in the water. Anchorage is a section of a body of water, like a bay or harbor, where boats can anchor (stop) and wait for their next move. It's a spot in the water where ships drop anchor, which is a heavy metal object attached to the boat by a chain or rope. This stops the boat from moving around in the wind or waves. The anchors are dropped into the water and then they dig into the sea bed, keeping the boat in one position. Boats use anchorage when they need to wait for weather to pass or for other boats to leave or arrive at a dock. Anchorage also helps prevent ships from drifting away in strong tides or currents. Overall, it's like a designated parking spot for boats to safely anchor and wait.
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