PLB or EPRIB

S

Sdfish

GreatGrady Captain
Joined
Sep 15, 2013
Messages
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Location
San Diego, California
Model
Adventure
I currently have an ACR PLB on the boat. I typically fish 10 + miles offshore.

Should I be considering an EPIRB or do you all think a PLB is sufficient? I have an Adventure 208.
 
Thank you for the feedback. I think I am OK with the PLB.

AI told me this:

Both ACR EPIRBs and PLBs have a global range via satellite to alert rescuers. However, EPIRBs are considered superior for marine emergencies because they have larger batteries (48+ hours vs 24 hours), float automatically, and transmit in an upright, stable position for better signal transmission in high seas.
www.acrartex.com +3
Key Comparison: ACR EPIRB vs. ACR PLB
  • Range: Both operate on 406 MHz to contact satellites worldwide; they are functionally equal in alerting capability.
  • Operational Power: EPIRBs generally have stronger signals and larger battery capacity (48-hour minimum) compared to PLBs (24-hour minimum).
  • Marine Superiority: EPIRBs are designed to float upright automatically when freed from their bracket. Many PLBs require manual activation, must be held clear of the water, and often need a separate flotation pouch to stay afloat.
  • Location Accuracy: Both units with built-in GPS provide location accuracy within roughly 100 meters.
    www.acrartex.com +4
For offshore boating, an EPIRB is preferred due to its autonomous, long-lasting, and buoyant nature, while PLBs are better for hikers or as a personal device carried on a life vest.
 
PLB $450 - PLB/EPIRB package $960. PLB goes on you the EPIRB goes with the boat.

I like the redundancy. Even though we all never expect to ever use a beacon you won't find a store out there when you need it.

A lot depends too on where you fish, what time of year you fish, how many other boats are around when you fish and how cold the water is when you fish.

I fish in Florida Keys in the Winter with 68+ degree water. With my family. I bought the package with both. There are no "deals" in my mind when it comes to personal or family safety.
 
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I carry both. It is less about the distance offshore and more about the conditions. Water in the NE is cold, and anything one can do to reduce the response time is worthwhile.
 
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Just about all of my boating is within a few miles of shore, in fairly warm water. So I like the idea of attaching a PLB and a strobe light to my life jacket. Or, at the very least, have it in my pocket.
 
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