The Switlik SAR-6 Transoceanic (Extended Version) is engineered for global circumnavigators and offshore racers who require professional-grade reliability for long-duration rescue scenarios. Built on the legendary platform of the military LRU-20 Search and Rescue raft, this "Extended" configuration delivers the ultimate level of offshore safety with expanded survival supplies for voyages where rescue may take more than 24 hours.
At the core of the SAR-6 is Switlik’s unmatched construction quality. The raft features heat-sealed, double-coated nylon fabric, eliminating the need for adhesives that can degrade over time. This ensures that even after years of storage, the raft holds air and maintains structural integrity the moment it hits the water. Stability is guaranteed by the signature Toroidal Stability Device (TSD), a weighted ballast system that encircles the entire hull to prevent capsizing in heavy seas—a feature vastly superior to the weighted bags found on budget rafts.
The "Extended" Transoceanic model is designed for the long haul. It features Switlik's unique convertible canopy, allowing survivors to open the raft for ventilation in tropical waters or seal it tight against wind and spray in storm conditions. Packed with the Extended Transoceanic Equipment kit, it provides increased calorie rations, additional water, and redundant signaling gear to keep a crew safe for prolonged periods, all housed in a vacuum-sealed package to minimize service costs and maximize longevity.
Key Features and Specifications
Extended Transoceanic Configuration: optimized for remote voyaging with supplies capable of sustaining 6 people for >24 hours.
Convertible Canopy System: flexible protection that allows for 360° visibility or complete weather shielding.
Pro-Grade Stability: equipped with a full-circumference Toroidal Stability Device (TSD) for unmatched anti-capsize performance.
Adhesive-Free Construction: heat-sealed seams provide a stronger, longer-lasting bond than glued alternatives.
Insulated Floor: inflatable double floor provides thermal protection against cold water, critical for preventing hypothermia.
Vacuum-Sealed: packaged in a hermetically sealed valise or container to block moisture and extend service intervals to 5 years.
Capacity: 6 Persons.
Extended Equipment Pack
This model includes the Extended Transoceanic Survival Kit, thoughtfully curated to sustain 6 people during prolonged offshore emergencies. Contents include all Standard items plus critical upgrades:
Doubled Food Rations (High-Calorie Bars)
Increased Water Rations (Vacuum Packed)
Additional Parachute Flare
Spare Sea Anchor
Fishing Kit
Thermal Protective Aids (TPAs)
Pyrotechnic Signaling Flares (SOLAS)
Air Pump and Repair Clamps
Bailing Bucket and Sponges
Signal Mirror and Whistle
First Aid Kit
Motion Sickness Tablets
Waterproof Flashlight with Spare Batteries
Q and A
Q: What is the difference between the Standard and Extended SAR-6?
A: The primary difference is the survival kit. The Extended (EXT) version is packed with additional supplies designed for rescue scenarios that may last longer than 24 hours. This includes double the food rations, increased water, an extra parachute flare, a spare sea anchor, thermal protective aids, and a fishing kit.
Q: What is the service interval for the Switlik SAR-6 EXT?
A: The Switlik SAR-6 features a 5-year service interval. Thanks to its advanced vacuum-sealed packaging, the raft is protected from moisture and environmental degradation, significantly reducing the frequency and cost of maintenance compared to standard 3-year interval rafts.
Q: Is the Switlik SAR-6 approved for transoceanic voyages?
A: Yes. The SAR-6 Transoceanic is designed for offshore and blue-water cruising. While it is built to recreational standards, it exceeds many requirements by utilizing the same hull and convertible canopy design found in Switlik’s military-grade search and rescue rafts (LRU-20).
Q: Does the Switlik SAR-6 EXT come with a cradle or mounting bracket?
A: No, the mounting cradle is sold separately. However, the SAR-6 is available in either a low-profile fiberglass hard container for deck mounting or a soft valise for below-deck storage, allowing you to choose the best configuration for your vessel's layout.
Q: How does the Switlik convertible canopy work?
A: The SAR-6 features a unique 3-way zipper system that allows the canopy to be fully furled for easy boarding, partially opened for ventilation in hot climates, or completely sealed for protection against wind and waves. This versatility provides 360-degree visibility, a feature rarely found on standard fully-enclosed rafts.
