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vtsailguy · 26-04-2013, 11:21

I am looking at a low(ish) cost messaging and/or PLB and put some thoughts in my blog.
Spot vs DeLorme InReach vs ACR ResQLink | Sailing With Kids
I'd love to hear of sailor's experiences with:

SPOT GPS Satellite Messenger
DELORME inReach 2-way Satellite Communication
ACR Electronics ResQLink+ Personal Locator Beacon

belizesailor · 26-04-2013, 11:42

Intended geographic area of use?

vtsailguy · 26-04-2013, 11:48

Well, I am doing a trip from Annapolis up the canals to Lake Champlain, hang around there for a year and then off to the Caribbean. At that point I'll probably get a full EPIRB

s/v 'Faith' · 26-04-2013, 12:38

I have both and have been actively cruising with both for the last 6 months. I am sailing right now, and have limited access but if you search on my user name I posted about them in a similar thread within the last several weeks.

belizesailor · 26-04-2013, 14:36

Quote:

Originally Posted by vtsailguy

Well, I am doing a trip from Annapolis up the canals to Lake Champlain, hang around there for a year and then off to the Caribbean. At that point I'll probably get a full EPIRB

I ask because SPOT has limited coverage area. In Reach is truly global.

Either way I would still (and do) carry an EPIRB for offshore or extended near coastal. SPOT/In Reach are better suited to staying in touch. EPIRB is only for a true emergency and has no "keep in touch" ability.

vtsailguy · 26-04-2013, 15:12

Yes, I plan to get a full EPIRB

Faith, I can't find that thread. Linky?

mausgras · 26-04-2013, 22:22

Is yellow brick tracking the sort of thing you are looking for?
Yellowbrick Tracking - truly global satellite tracking beacons for yacht racing, adventures, treks, expeditions and challenges

delmarrey · 26-04-2013, 22:57

I'll be going with the InReach Generation 2 here fairly soon. IMO and from research this is the most economical way of staying in touch world wide.

Generation 2 Inreach Se Iphone / Android / Smartphone - Free Shipping $75 or more!

Quote:

Unlike other satellite communicators, consistent global service is available through Iridium, which is the world’s furthest-reaching satellite communications network. inReach can maintain satellite signal lock even in difficult GPS environments and embeds precise location coordinates in sent messages.

belizesailor · 27-04-2013, 04:58

I think many cruisers will go with InReach now...much better solution than SPOT.

delmarrey · 27-04-2013, 08:38

Plus, you can carry a solar recharging kit!

Unlike the EPIRB's

InReach But it's not water proof so needs to be kept in a Ziploc for out on the water.

Steve Olson · 27-04-2013, 16:29

I used the SPOT GPS messenger on a delivery up the coast of Mexico last December and I had issues with AA battery life. I contacted the company and it was recommended that I use higher quality batteries. If you do choose SPOT, I would consider bringing a big pack of fresh AA's.