LarryB,
For 30 to 40' boats the "pulpit" is not necessary for most skippers.
One only needs to lift several feet of chain and the anchor once it breaks water. Step up to the rail and pull the anchor and 2 or 3' of chain up onto the foredeck. I use a boat hook. There it can be made secure w chocks typical of most Danforth deck mounts.
What do you gain?
You no longer pay moorage for the 2 or 3' of boat length known as a "bow pulpit".
Your boat is better looking w/o the "pulpit" appendage on the bow.
The boat itself is much stronger and able to take bumps (especially from the side) than a screwed or bolted on board.
Simplified maintenance not having to look after the pulpit.
What do you loose?
Need to physically lift the anchor aboard.
Deployment time is 1 or 2 minutes slower.
Anchor is "underfoot" on the foredeck.
Of course the option is only available to those like me that have an anchor light enough to easily lift over the rail. My anchors are usually 15 to 22lbs and I have no problem w them. Since I'm prone to getting hernias I can't lift more but most men can easily lift 35 to 55lbs so this option is available to most skippers of boats up to 40' long.