Disclosed is a positioning device for a free-flying kite-type wind-attacked element that comprises a profiled wing, is used as the exclusive, an auxiliary, or an emergency drive unit, and is connected to a watercraft via a traction rope. The positioning device is provided with a winch that can cause the traction rope to be taken in when a given first tractive force is not attained and/or when the flow is about to stop or has stopped abruptly and/or cause the traction rope to be veered when given a second tractive force and/or a given inflow velocity are/is exceeded.