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EPIRB vs PLB: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Carry?
Looking to master offshore knowledge check out the complete guide (Captain Offshore Bundle)
EPIRB or PLB? They both transmit globally in distress—but they’re not the same. In this episode, we break down the key differences between an EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) and a PLB (Personal Locator Beacon)so you can choose the right tool for your boating—or even land-based—adventures.
The biggest differences? Transmission duration and registration type. An EPIRB is registered to a vessel and transmits for a minimum of about 48 hours. A PLB is registered to an individual and transmits for about 24 hours. We also discuss how both can be updated in the registration database with float plans or activity details—something many owners don’t realize they can do.
We cover:
- Transmission time: EPIRB (~48 hrs) vs PLB (~24 hrs)
- Vessel registration (EPIRB) vs personal registration (PLB)
- Updating your beacon database with float plans or trip details
- Size and portability differences
- Why both operate on global distress systems
If you’re boating offshore, hiking remotely, or doing expedition-style travel, understanding when to carry an EPIRB, a PLB—or both—can make a critical difference.
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By Merrill CharetteLooking to master offshore knowledge check out the complete guide (Captain Offshore Bundle)
EPIRB or PLB? They both transmit globally in distress—but they’re not the same. In this episode, we break down the key differences between an EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) and a PLB (Personal Locator Beacon)so you can choose the right tool for your boating—or even land-based—adventures.
The biggest differences? Transmission duration and registration type. An EPIRB is registered to a vessel and transmits for a minimum of about 48 hours. A PLB is registered to an individual and transmits for about 24 hours. We also discuss how both can be updated in the registration database with float plans or activity details—something many owners don’t realize they can do.
We cover:
- Transmission time: EPIRB (~48 hrs) vs PLB (~24 hrs)
- Vessel registration (EPIRB) vs personal registration (PLB)
- Updating your beacon database with float plans or trip details
- Size and portability differences
- Why both operate on global distress systems
If you’re boating offshore, hiking remotely, or doing expedition-style travel, understanding when to carry an EPIRB, a PLB—or both—can make a critical difference.