Choosing the right marine EPIRB is an important part of vessel safety. Whether you operate a commercial ship, fishing vessel, yacht, workboat or offshore support vessel, having a reliable emergency beacon can make a critical difference when an emergency occurs at sea.

With several established marine safety manufacturers available, choosing the right Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) can be challenging. ACR Electronics, Jotron, Ocean Signal and McMurdo are recognised names in marine distress beacon technology, offering products designed for different vessel types and safety requirements.

In this guide, we compare ACR, Jotron, Ocean Signal and McMurdo EPIRBs, explain the key features to consider when buying a marine EPIRB, and help you understand which type may be suitable for your vessel.

What Is a Marine EPIRB?

An Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is a maritime safety device designed to send a distress alert when a vessel or crew faces a serious emergency.

Most modern EPIRBs transmit a coded distress signal on the 406 MHz frequency to the international Cospas-Sarsat satellite search-and-rescue system. Compatible models can also use satellite navigation to provide location information, helping rescue authorities identify the beacon's position.

Depending on the model, an EPIRB may also include a 121.5 MHz homing signal, an AIS locating signal, Return Link Service (RLS), and a high-intensity strobe light.

Marine EPIRBs are commonly used on commercial vessels, fishing boats, yachts, offshore vessels and other craft that require emergency distress-alerting equipment.

Unlike an ordinary marine radio, an EPIRB is specifically designed to alert the search-and-rescue system when activated. It is therefore an important part of a vessel's emergency preparedness equipment.

ACR vs Jotron vs Ocean Signal vs McMurdo EPIRBs

When comparing marine EPIRB brands, it is important to look beyond the manufacturer name. The best choice depends on the vessel's operating environment, regulatory requirements, mounting arrangement, available features, servicing support and total ownership cost.

1. ACR Electronics EPIRBs

ACR Electronics is a marine safety equipment manufacturer offering emergency beacons and related safety products. Its GlobalFix range is one option for vessel operators looking for a modern marine EPIRB.

Depending on the model, ACR GlobalFix EPIRBs can offer features such as:

• 406 MHz satellite distress alerting.

• Integrated GNSS positioning on applicable models.

• 121.5 MHz homing capability on applicable models.

• AIS locating signals on selected models.

• Return Link Service and smartphone connectivity on compatible products.

• Manual or float-free installation options, depending on the model and package.

When comparing ACR GlobalFix EPIRBs, check the exact model specification rather than assuming every feature is available across the entire range.

Who should consider ACR?

ACR is worth considering for commercial vessel operators, yacht owners, fishing fleets and marine professionals looking for established emergency beacon technology with model-specific safety and locating features.

2. Jotron EPIRBs

Jotron specialises in maritime communication and safety equipment. Its Tron EPIRB range includes products designed for commercial shipping, offshore operations, fishing vessels and other maritime applications.

Depending on the model, the Jotron range includes options with:

• 406 MHz satellite distress alerting.

• GNSS positioning on selected models.

• AIS locating capability on selected models.

• Manual and float-free mounting arrangements.

• Product configurations intended for commercial maritime requirements.

Examples include the Jotron Tron 60AIS and Tron 40AIS. The appropriate model depends on the vessel's requirements and the equipment's current approvals.

Who should consider Jotron?

Jotron is worth evaluating for commercial shipping companies, offshore operators, ship managers and marine engineering teams that need dependable maritime communication and emergency safety equipment.

When buying a Jotron EPIRB, confirm the model, bracket configuration, applicable vessel requirements and availability of authorised servicing.

3. Ocean Signal EPIRBs

Ocean Signal offers marine safety and emergency communication products, including the rescueME and safeSEA EPIRB ranges.

Depending on the selected model, Ocean Signal EPIRBs may provide features such as:

• 406 MHz satellite distress transmission.

• GNSS positioning.

• AIS locating signals on compatible models.

• Return Link Service on selected products.

• Smartphone connectivity on supported devices.

• Manual or automatic float-free deployment options, depending on the model.

Products such as the rescueME EPIRB3 and safeSEA EPIRB3 Pro are examples to investigate when comparing current marine EPIRB options.

Who should consider Ocean Signal?

Ocean Signal may suit yacht owners, leisure boat operators, commercial vessel operators and marine professionals who want to compare compact emergency beacons and advanced locating features.

Before purchasing, review the manufacturer's current product documentation and verify that the exact model meets your vessel's carriage and certification requirements.

4. McMurdo EPIRBs

McMurdo is another established name in maritime distress beacon technology. Its SmartFind range includes EPIRBs designed for marine emergency applications.

Depending on the model, McMurdo SmartFind EPIRBs may offer:

• Satellite-based distress alerting.

• GNSS positioning on applicable models.

• AIS locating functionality on selected versions.

• Manual activation or float-free deployment configurations.

• Features designed for commercial and other maritime safety applications.

The SmartFind G8 range is one example to consider when researching current McMurdo EPIRBs.

Who should consider McMurdo?

McMurdo is worth considering for vessel owners, marine safety managers and procurement teams comparing EPIRBs for new installations or replacement programmes.

If you are replacing an existing McMurdo beacon, check the exact model number, battery expiry, mounting bracket, service requirements and availability of a suitable approved replacement.

Comparison Table: ACR vs Jotron vs Ocean Signal vs McMurdo

The following table provides a starting point for comparing the four manufacturers. Features vary by model, so use the manufacturer's current specification sheet to confirm the details before ordering.

There is no single brand that is automatically best for every vessel. The right marine EPIRB is the one that meets the vessel's applicable requirements, provides the necessary features and can be correctly installed, registered, tested and maintained.