Choosing the right marine EPIRB is essential for vessel safety. Whether you operate a commercial ship, fishing boat, yacht or offshore support vessel, the right Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) can help alert search-and-rescue authorities when a serious emergency occurs at sea.

However, not all EPIRBs have the same features, mounting arrangements or regulatory approvals. Before purchasing a marine distress beacon, consider the following factors to ensure it meets your vessel's safety requirements.

1. Regulatory Compliance and Certification

Before buying a marine EPIRB, check the safety equipment requirements that apply to your vessel. These may depend on its size, type, operating area, flag state and applicable maritime regulations.

Commercial vessels may need to comply with requirements under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), and relevant flag-state rules.

Always verify the model's certification, approval status and suitability for your vessel before ordering. If you are unsure which beacon to choose, explore the available options in our marine EPIRB store and confirm the requirements with a qualified marine safety professional.

2. Category I vs Category II EPIRB

One of the most important considerations when buying an EPIRB is its deployment method.

• Category I EPIRB: Designed for automatic float-free deployment from a compatible housing. Under the specified conditions, the beacon releases from its bracket if the vessel sinks and floats to the surface.

• Category II EPIRB: Generally stored in a manual-release bracket and removed for activation when required.

The correct type depends on your vessel's operating requirements and applicable regulations. Always confirm compatibility between the beacon and its mounting bracket.

3. GPS and GNSS Positioning

Accurate location information can make a significant difference during a maritime emergency. Many modern EPIRBs incorporate Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers, which can provide position data to accompany a distress alert.

When comparing models such as ACR GlobalFix, Jotron Tron, Ocean Signal rescueME and McMurdo SmartFind, check whether the specific beacon includes GNSS positioning and what location-related features it supports.

You can explore ACR marine safety products to compare available EPIRB options and identify a model that suits your vessel.

4. AIS Locating Capability

Some modern EPIRBs include an Automatic Identification System (AIS) locating feature. Where supported, this can help nearby vessels and rescue teams equipped with compatible AIS receivers identify the beacon's location.

AIS locating is different from the 406 MHz satellite distress alert. The satellite alert notifies the search-and-rescue system, while AIS can assist local locating efforts.

If this feature is important to your operation, check the manufacturer's specifications carefully. Not every EPIRB includes AIS functionality.

5. EPIRB Battery Life and Replacement Costs

Every EPIRB has a specified battery service life and operational duration. These vary by model, so check the battery expiry date and the manufacturer's replacement requirements before purchasing.

It is also worth considering the total cost of ownership, including battery replacement, servicing, warranty coverage and any required accessories.

For vessel operators managing multiple safety devices, keeping track of battery expiry dates can help avoid unexpected replacement costs and reduce the risk of carrying equipment that is no longer serviceable.

6. Mounting Options and Installation

The correct mounting arrangement is just as important as the beacon itself.

Depending on the model, you may need a manual-release bracket or a float-free housing. Ensure that the bracket is compatible with the EPIRB and that the installation follows the manufacturer's instructions and applicable maritime requirements.

For automatic float-free installations, the mounting location must allow the housing to operate as intended without obstruction.

If you are replacing an existing beacon, do not assume that your current bracket will fit a different model. Check compatibility before ordering.

7. Registration, Testing and Servicing

Buying an EPIRB is only the first step. Correct programming, registration, testing and maintenance are also essential.

Register the beacon with the appropriate national authority, keep the registration details up to date and follow the manufacturer's recommended self-test procedure. Arrange servicing and battery replacement when required.

Never activate an EPIRB's actual distress transmission simply to test it. Use the approved self-test procedure and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

EPIRB vs PLB vs Marine VHF Radio: What's the Difference?

EPIRBs, Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) and marine VHF radios all support safety, but they serve different purposes.

Marine EPIRB: Designed primarily to transmit a satellite distress alert associated with a vessel emergency. Depending on the model, it may also provide GNSS position data and additional locating features.

Personal Locator Beacon (PLB): A portable emergency beacon intended for individual use. Its operating requirements, registration and battery specifications may differ from those of a marine EPIRB.

Marine VHF radio: Enables two-way voice communication between vessels, shore stations and relevant maritime services. Compatible equipment may also support Digital Selective Calling (DSC) for distress alerting and other calling functions.

These devices complement one another rather than replace one another. The appropriate combination depends on your vessel, operating environment and applicable safety requirements.

Which Marine EPIRB Brand Should You Choose?

ACR, Jotron, Ocean Signal and McMurdo offer marine safety products worth considering. The best choice depends on your vessel's requirements, the features available on the specific model, certification and after-sales support.

ACR GlobalFix EPIRBs

ACR GlobalFix EPIRBs are worth considering if you are comparing emergency beacons with different positioning, locating and connectivity features.

Explore our range of ACR marine safety products to review available models and their specifications.

Jotron Tron EPIRBs

Jotron provides maritime communication and safety equipment for commercial shipping and other marine applications. When comparing Jotron Tron EPIRBs, consider the model's approval status, deployment arrangement and available locating features.

Browse Jotron marine safety products to explore the available options.

Ocean Signal rescueME and safeSEA EPIRBs

Ocean Signal offers marine safety products for a range of vessel applications. Depending on the model, features may include GNSS positioning, AIS locating and other emergency beacon capabilities.

Visit our Ocean Signal product range to compare available products and check their specifications.

McMurdo SmartFind EPIRBs

McMurdo SmartFind EPIRBs are another option for vessel owners and marine procurement teams reviewing emergency beacon equipment.

If you are replacing an older McMurdo beacon, check the exact model, battery expiry, bracket compatibility and availability of an approved replacement. Explore our McMurdo marine safety products for available options.

Always verify current specifications and approvals before making your final decision.

Where to Buy Marine EPIRBs

Finding the right marine EPIRB involves more than comparing prices. You need to consider regulatory compliance, product availability, mounting compatibility, battery service life and ongoing support.

At TRIONICS, you can explore marine EPIRB options from leading manufacturers, including ACR, Jotron, Ocean Signal and McMurdo. Whether you are equipping a new vessel, replacing an expired beacon or sourcing safety equipment for a commercial fleet, selecting the correct model is essential.

Visit our marine EPIRB store to explore available products.

Need help choosing the right EPIRB? Contact TRIONICS for product availability, pricing and assistance identifying a suitable emergency beacon for your vessel or marine operation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Marine EPIRBs

Which marine EPIRB brand is best?

ACR, Jotron, Ocean Signal and McMurdo are all worth considering. The best marine EPIRB depends on your vessel's requirements, regulatory approvals, deployment method, required features, budget and servicing arrangements.

What is the difference between ACR and Ocean Signal EPIRBs?

Both manufacturers offer marine emergency beacons, but features vary by model. Compare GNSS positioning, AIS locating, Return Link Service, connectivity, battery specifications, mounting arrangements and applicable approvals before buying.

Are Jotron EPIRBs suitable for commercial vessels?

Jotron offers EPIRBs intended for maritime applications, including commercial operations. However, you must confirm that the specific model meets the vessel's regulatory and operational requirements.

Can I replace an old McMurdo EPIRB with another brand?

A replacement from another manufacturer may be suitable, but check the required certification, programming, registration, mounting arrangement and bracket compatibility before purchasing.

How long does an EPIRB battery last?

Battery service life varies by model. Check the manufacturer's specified replacement interval and the expiry date marked on the device. Battery service life is different from the beacon's operating duration after activation.

Does a marine EPIRB require a subscription?

Standard 406 MHz Cospas-Sarsat distress alerting generally does not require a recurring satellite monitoring subscription. However, additional services and product-specific terms may vary, so check the manufacturer's documentation.

Is an EPIRB the same as a marine VHF radio?

No. An EPIRB transmits a distress alert through a satellite-based search-and-rescue system, while a marine VHF radio supports direct radio communication. Both may form part of a vessel's safety equipment, depending on applicable requirements.

What should I check before buying a marine EPIRB?

Check the model's regulatory approvals, deployment category, GNSS and AIS features, battery expiry, bracket compatibility, registration requirements, warranty and servicing arrangements.

A reliable marine EPIRB is an important part of your vessel's emergency preparedness. By comparing ACR GlobalFix, Jotron Tron, Ocean Signal rescueME and safeSEA, and McMurdo SmartFind products, you can make a more informed decision based on your vessel's needs rather than brand name alone.

Before purchasing, confirm the relevant regulations, check the product specifications and ensure that the beacon can be installed, registered and maintained correctly.

Explore the TRIONICS marine EPIRB store to find available emergency beacons from leading marine safety brands. For help choosing a suitable model, contact TRIONICS for product information and pricing.