What Are EPIRB and PLB?
Transmitters that send an identified distress signal via satellite — the last layer of safety once VHF range has run out.
EPIRB and PLB are transmitters that send an identified distress signal via satellite. VHF and DSC are limited by line of sight; with an EPIRB, the recipient is the satellite, so distance from shore no longer matters.
The table below compares the two.
EPIRB - PLB
Feature | EPIRB | PLB |
|---|---|---|
Registration | Registered to the vessel | Registered to the person |
Trigger | May activate automatically on contact with water (float-free) | Fits in a pocket, manually activated |
For | Passages between islands, offshore at night | Solo/watchkeeping sailing, worn on a lifejacket |
The critical point is registration: the device must be registered with the relevant authority using vessel or personal details; an unregistered signal is an 'unknown alarm', and verification delays rescue. Battery and hydrostatic release unit expiry dates are also part of the service schedule.
For the Göcek/Fethiye coastline, VHF plus DSC covers most situations; for a boat planning island passages and offshore night sailing, an EPIRB is the right investment. Annual routine: self-test with the test button, check battery and HRU dates, and make sure the registration details are up to date.