5 Best Self-Adjusting Anchor Buoys
#1 Grippy
Fitted with 2 fully watertight chambers housing electronic and mechanical parts, which prevents possible malfunctions due to the marine environment. Extremely lightweight and compact, it has a 200-mm diameter and weighs as little as 1.2 to 1.5 kg.
The ABR version is fitted with a pioneer technology that blocks the line sliding when GRIPPY exceeds 90° inclination while retrieving the anchor so that the signalling buoy can be recovered from its line without using the boat hook.
The end of the GRIPPY line has to be connected to the anchor crown, and it will automatically unwind when deploying the anchor.
The line self-adjustment lets GRIPPY float on the anchor perpendicular consequently signalling its position. At night, GRIPPY automatically activates its solar-powered night lights (LIGHT, HEAVY and ABR versions).
In case of tangled anchor, it can be tripped by retrieving the buoy rope, whose breaking load exceeds 500 kg in the BASIC and LIGHT versions and 1200 kg in the HEAVY and ABR versions. When retrieving the anchor, GRIPPY will automatically wind its line and will position under the boat bow. It comes with a convenient stanchion support (LIGHT, HEAVY and ABR versions) and a pull-out visual signaller.
Sources: Intermarnautic | Osculati |
#2 The Original SWI-TEC Self-Adjusting Anchor Buoy $250
Swi-Tec America $365
- More than 20 years on the market!
- To a maximum water depth of 65 feet
- The buoy is always positioned directly above the anchor
- No complicated calculations for guessing the length of line let out
- Unique, specially designed self-rolling belt/strap mecanism
- Tripping the anchor is easy
- A tensile strength of up to 1100 Ibs
- Precisely marks the anchor’s set position
- SOLAS reflective safety tape (3M) Can function as a tripping line
The version supplied can be used up to a water depth of 20 meters and can be extended by another 10 meters with the Extension piece. We offer the practical Buoy Rack as an accessory for storage.
The robust but light plastic body is provided with a safety luminous reflective tape (3M), which makes the buoy visible even in the dark. For more lighting, we recommend our special Flashing light.
If you would like to add your ship's name to your buoy, we offer our individual marking and an anchor prohibition sticker as protection against accidental mooring of strangers.
If you should ever have a problem with your buoy, you can find the right spare parts here -> Spare parts for anchor buoy.