Self-Adjusting Anchor Buoy

The buoy features a special retraction mechanism that ensures it always floats vertically above the anchor, marking its position precisely.

The SWI-TEC buoy works reliably at depths of up to 20 meters. With the extension strap (10 m), it can be used at depths of up to 30 meters.

• Simple and safe operation
• No second person required
• Double safety system built in
• Minimal effort needed: 1:10 winch gear ratio
• No dangerous mast climbing required
• No electricity needed
• No additional fittings necessary
• Versatile: can also be used to lower an outboard motor into a dinghy, lift disabled
  persons safely on and off board, install/remove equipment, etc.
• Suitable for heavier persons
• Ergonomic seat for longer work in the mast with our SWI-TEC bosun’s chair or lifting aid (accessory)
• Increased safety thanks to stable construction
• Certified by Germanischer Lloyd
• Useful accessories available (see website)

• Material: Lightweight, robust plastic body combined with a stainless-steel bracket for easy retrieval.
• Visibility: Equipped with a reflective safety tape (3M), optionally upgradeable with buoy lighting.

• 10 m strap extension
• Stainless steel buoy holder – e.g., for mounting on the railing or in the anchor locker
• Buoy lighting – for better visibility at night
• Marking stickers (e.g., ship’s name) and “No Anchoring” stickers
• Spare parts such as stainless-steel spring, straps, edge protection, housing parts, reflective tape, and more.
  All spare parts are available directly on the website (Mooring & Anchoring).

The self-retracting anchor buoy was originally developed in Switzerland under the SwissTech logo. After relocating the workshop to Mallorca, the logo could no longer be used and was changed to SWI-TEC (a registered trademark). Production and distribution have since been managed by Neveta Náutica S.L., based in Mallorca.

The original SWI-TEC self-adjusting anchor buoy has been produced for more than 30 years.

• Directly from SWI-TEC or partners: starting at approx. €298.94 (export outside Europe: approx. €247.06)
• Alternatively, from various specialist retailers worldwide

SWI-TEC offers both an instruction manual and a repair manual for download directly from the website.

Very easy. When anchoring, the anchor is first lowered into the water and the buoy immediately after. The strap automatically unrolls to the seabed and, thanks to spring tension, keeps the buoy positioned vertically above the anchor. No need to measure water depth or line length.

When retrieving the anchor, it is first brought on deck, then the buoy is hooked onto the stainless-steel bracket with a boat hook and also retrieved on board.

The mechanism is designed to be robust. The strap outlet is made of stainless steel and prevents jamming as well as dirt intrusion. We recommend rinsing regularly with fresh water from below through the strap outlet to keep the mechanism smooth.

The buoy generally remains above the anchor but may shift slightly sideways under stronger current or waves. Nevertheless, it reliably fulfills its main function: precise marking of the anchor.

Yes. At approx. 42 cm height, 30 cm diameter, and 3.5 kg weight, it fits on most boats – whether in the anchor locker, on deck, or with an optional bracket on the railing.

It comes equipped with 3M reflective tape as standard. For even greater safety, an optional LED buoy light is available, especially useful at anchorage overnight.

No – the strap is always pulled straight downwards by the spring inside the buoy and does not float loosely in the water. The risk of it getting caught in a propeller is very low.

Yes. With a breaking load of 500 kg, the strap can also be used to free and recover the anchor.
This makes the buoy particularly useful in difficult anchoring situations (e.g., rocky or seagrass seabeds).

Normally no – the buoy is designed to be buoyant (airtight). Only external mechanical damage (causing a housing crack) could cause it to sink. Since the strap is attached to the anchor, it cannot be lost. In case of damage, spare parts and repair instructions are available from the manufacturer.

The 10 m extension is attached between buoy and anchor with a shackle or carabiner for greater depths, increasing the usable depth from 20 m to 30 m. However, it does not roll up with the main strap.

The price is higher than standard buoys because it includes a self-retracting mechanism, high-quality materials, and the option of use as a tripping line. Many owners see it as an investment in safety and convenience.

Yes. Imitations are usually cheaper but lack a reliable retraction mechanism or the same quality of workmanship. The SWI-TEC has been proven for over 30 years and is regarded as the original.