What Is Playing Anchor in Blackjack? Anchor Seat Explained
Blackjack remains a popular choice for many players across the UK, both in physical casinos and online.
You may have come across the term “anchor seat” at a blackjack table and felt unsure about what it really means or why people talk about it.
In this blog, we break down what the anchor seat is, why it can attract attention, and whether it could matter to your time at the table. If you’re interested in the roles people play at a blackjack table, or want to get a clearer picture of the game’s structure, you are in the right place.
Let’s take a closer look at the anchor seat in blackjack and see what it might mean for your own play.
What Does the Anchor Seat Mean in Blackjack?
The anchor seat refers to the last seat on the right-hand side of a blackjack table, closest to the dealer. The person here is always the final player to make a decision—like hit, stand, split, or double down—before the dealer completes their hand.
The anchor seat sometimes stands out to players because the person there chooses what to do just before the dealer acts. Even so, each player’s hand is treated separately, and outcomes are driven by the way cards are dealt, not by where someone sits.
Where Is the Anchor Position at the Blackjack Table?
The anchor position is the seat on the far right-hand side of the table from the dealer’s point of view. Picture the classic semi-circular layout of a blackjack table—this is the last seat on the curve, often referred to as the anchor because it’s the final player to act before the dealer plays their hand.
While in many casinos this seat may be near the shoe (the box that holds the cards), that’s not always the case. Table setups can vary, and the shoe might be positioned differently depending on the casino or the dealer’s preference.
No matter how many players are at the table—whether it’s three, five or seven—the anchor position stays the same: it’s always the last player to make a decision before the dealer acts.
Why Do Players Pay Attention to the Anchor Seat?
People sometimes focus on the anchor seat because it’s the last spot to act before the dealer, and some feel this could sway what happens next for everyone. The anchor player gets the final card before the dealer takes a turn, which can sometimes lead to plenty of table talk and opinion.
On the other hand, plenty of players simply play their own hand without worrying about the anchor seat. It’s important to remember that blackjack results are always separate and have no connection to where you are sitting.
Since the conversation about the anchor seat can vary from table to table, checking the house rules ahead of time may help you feel more prepared—especially if you’re new or joining a table for the first time.
Does the Anchor Player Affect the Game Outcome?
The anchor player’s choices are easy for the rest of the table to see, and some players may have strong opinions about whether these choices matter to what happens next. Still, the outcome for each person is decided by the cards as they come, not by the seat you pick.
While the anchor often attracts greater attention due to being the last in line, it’s your decisions paired with the deck and house rules that guide the outcome. If you’re unsure about where to sit, bear in mind that the cards will fall as they may, whichever seat you choose.
Can Anyone Sit in the Anchor Seat?
Yes, anyone joining a blackjack game can sit in the anchor seat if it’s open when they arrive. Casinos don’t reserve this spot for any particular group or regulars.
Both in person and online, the anchor seat is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. If you have your eye on it, but find it occupied, you can either wait or take whichever seat is available, knowing that each one gives you the same opportunity for any card combination, as explained previously.
You might come across small differences between casinos, but the principle is usually the same.
First Base vs Anchor: Is There a Difference?
In blackjack, first base and anchor refer to opposite ends of the table and the order in which players act.
First base is the seat on the dealer’s far left and plays first each round. The anchor seat is on the dealer’s far right and is always the last player to act before the dealer reveals their hand.
While the order of play changes depending on where you sit, the game rules and your chances of winning stay exactly the same. Some players prefer watching others before deciding, but seat position doesn’t affect how cards are dealt.
These terms are commonly used in both land-based and online casinos across the UK, helping players understand the flow of the game—but remember, strategy and responsible play matter far more than where you sit.
Play Blackjack Online For Real Money at 666 Casino
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As always, it’s important to play with care—make sure you set limits that work for you and know that support is always available if you ever need it.
This overview should help you feel confident about where to sit at your next blackjack table, whether you choose the anchor seat or not.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.