Abstract: An anchor cradle unit which restrains an anchor in a folded flat horizontal position on a deck. The cradle is pivotally mounted at the deck edge and adapted to be positioned by a controlled force about the pivot so that the cradle extends at a predetermined angle beyond the deck edge. Upon predetermined release of the anchor from the cradle, the anchor will swing away from the cradle and drop by gravity. Upon stowing, the anchor will be raised and connectedly received in scabbards against the cradle, pivoted therewith onto the deck and thereafter secured to the cradle.