Anchor Buoys

Anchor Buoys

When you drop anchor off the rugged shores of the Maritimes, knowing exactly where your ground tackle sits brings peace of mind — and an anchor buoy is the simplest way to mark your spot.

Why Use Anchor Buoys?

• Instant Visibility. A brightly coloured buoy always shows you — and other boaters — where your anchor rests. No more circling the same spot searching for your rode.
• Easy Retrieval. When you’re ready to weigh anchor, haul the buoy instead of fishing around for the anchor rode on the seabed.
• Line Protection. By lifting the anchor rode off the bottom, buoys reduce abrasion and fouling on your anchor rode.
• Safety in Crowded Anchorages. Marked anchor rodes prevent other vessels from drifting onto your rode and creating a tangle — or worse, damage.

Types of Anchor Buoys

• Self-Adjusting Anchor Buoy: SWI-TEC’s flagship buoy adapts automatically to changing tides and tide height, keeping your marker taut and in sight.
• Stainless Steel Buoy Rack: A shore-mount or rail-mount rack keeps your buoy organized on deck, ready for deployment at a moment’s notice.
• Flashing LED Light: Battery-powered LED attachments ensure night-time visibility when you’re working late or returning after sunset.
• Extension & Replacement Straps: Custom straps let you rig any buoy to your existing anchor rode, allowing you to swap out worn straps in seconds.
• Protective Strip: Shield your buoy’s surface from chafe and UV — ideal for coastal cruising where gear takes a beating.
• Classic Mooring Buoy: Heavy-duty, high-visibility floats for permanent moorings, dock markers, and large-craft anchoring.

How to Choose Anchor Buoys

1. Boat Size & Rode Diameter. Match your buoy’s strap or attachment point to the thickness of your chain or rope. Larger vessels need wider, more robust straps.
2. Water Depth & Tidal Range. In areas like the Bay of Fundy, self-adjusting buoys help manage extreme tidal swings without overburdening your rode.
3. Visibility Requirements. Day or night use calls for different solutions — a flashing LED buoy shines in low light, while bright-coloured straps work best in daylight.
4. Storage & Deck Space. If you’re tight on deck real estate, a stainless steel rack or fold–away buoy may be essential for neat stowage.

Use Cases for Anchor Buoys

• Recreational Boating. Mark shallow dive sites, swim platforms, or secluded anchorages when cruising Nova Scotia’s coastal inlets.
• Fishing Operations. Keep your drift set without losing track of your spot — perfect for lobster or cod fishing in inshore waters.
• Commercial & Charter Fleets. Rental boats and tour vessels benefit from quick-deploy buoys that reduce turnaround time and maintenance.
• Long-Term Mooring. Heavy-duty mooring buoys serve as permanent markers for floats, rafts, and seasonal docks in harbours and marinas.

Why Crafts Cove Marine Is the Preferred Supplier for Anchor Buoys

1. Maritimes Expertise. Based in Dartmouth, NS, we have a deep understanding of local tides, seabeds, and boating conditions, surpassing that of anyone else.
2. Comprehensive SWI-TEC Range. As an authorized SWI-TEC dealer, we stock every buoy, strap, light, and rack you need.
3. Fast Atlantic Shipping & Local Pickup. Gear up today with same-day pickup or quick delivery across Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island.
4. Professional Support & Installation. Our team helps you rig and maintain your buoy system — visit us at 20 Estates Rd for expert advice and hands-on service.
5. Durability & Warranty. All SWI-TEC products come backed by robust warranties and our commitment to quality service.

Frequently Asked Questions about Anchor Buoys

What is the main purpose of an anchor buoy?

An anchor buoy marks the location of your anchor, making it easy to spot, retrieve, and avoid snags — crucial for safe anchoring and gear protection.

How do I attach an anchor buoy to my anchor system?

Thread the buoy’s strap or shackle through a link in your chain or secure it to your rode’s splice. Ensure the connection is tight but allows for buoy movement.

What size anchor buoy do I need?

Select a buoy rated for at least 1.5 times your rope or chain diameter. Small tenders often use 4–6″ floats; larger powerboats may require 8–12″ buoys for optimal visibility.

Are anchor buoys mandatory?

While not legally required in most recreational boating, buoys are strongly recommended in busy anchorages and high-tidal regions like the Bay of Fundy to reduce drift hazards and gear damage.

Ready to mark your spot? Explore our full Anchors & Mooring collection to pair the perfect buoy with your ground tackle.