A horizontal windlass turns its gypsy on a horizontal shaft, with the motor and gearbox in a housing on deck. Many need little or no room below, so they suit boats with a shallow anchor locker or no access under the bow. Some, such as Lewmar’s Pro-Series, still put the motor through the deck, so check the maker’s below deck dimensions before buying.
Prices were last checked November 2, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Full ranking 6
- Lewmar Pro-Fish 700#1 of 6Full review
The Lewmar for offshore fishing boats up to 38 ft: the auto free fall puts the anchor down fast from the helm.
Amazon $1,035.82$1,035.82700 lb105 ft/min- - Powerwinch Class 41 Free-Fall#2 of 6Full review
For a 35 to 41 ft power boat owner who wants to anchor from the helm without walking to the bow.
Amazon $955.58$955.58875 lb75 ft/min- - Excalibur S612 Horizontal Windlass#3 of 6Full review
A lot of pull for the money on boats up to about 40 ft with no room below deck. The lack of a stated warranty is the catch.
Amazon $949.99$949.991,200 lb-- - Lewmar Pro-Series 700#4 of 6Full review
A proven, fast horizontal windlass for power boats from 20 to 38 ft. Worth the premium for owners who value parts support and a three year warranty.
Amazon $1,159.86$1,159.86700 lb105 ft/min- - Five Oceans Atlantic 600#5 of 6Full review
A complete on deck windlass kit for boats from 20 to about 45 ft, a good choice when the rode needs replacing too.
Amazon $1,318.50$1,318.501,200 lb-- - VEVOR Horizontal Windlass 573 lb#6 of 6Full review
A budget on deck windlass for a fishing boat in the 23 to 30 ft range. Buyers give up a stated warranty to save hundreds.
Amazon $605.65$605.65573 lb65 ft/min-
