A high-strength thermally-isolating surface-mounted anchoring system for a cavity wall is disclosed. The thermally-isolated anchoring system is adaptable to various structures, including high-span applications, and for use with a split tail veneer tie. The anchoring system includes an anchor base and a stepped cylinder which sheaths the mounting hardware to limit insulation tearing and resultant loss of insulation integrity. The anchoring system is thermally-isolated through the use of multiple strategically placed compressible nonconductive seals or elements. Seals are also provided to preclude penetration of air, moisture, and water vapor into the wall structure.