McMurdo Smartfind EPIRB Review
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The Nitty Gritty
- Priced in the $600-$800 range.
- 10 year battery life.
- The powerful 406 mhz distress signal.
- It floats.
- Manual activation or self activation if removed from bracket and underwater.
- Protective tab to prevent accidental activation.
McMurdo Smartfind EPIRB
The McMurdo SmartFind G8 AIS is the world’s first EPIRB to combine multiple frequencies, including AIS and 406 MHz. AIS is a satellite-based system that allows rescuers to identify the location of a person in an emergency. AIS uses the GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) in order to pinpoint its location. Its fusion of these two technologies allows it to pinpoint a person’s exact location and call for rescue.
The unit provides a guard against accidental activation.
The McMurdo SmartFind EPIRB is compact, stylish and waterproof to 33 feet. This unit is easy to install and self-tests for proper function. This EPIRB can be activated at any time in the event of an emergency. A secondary homing transmitter on the device enables Search and Rescue teams to quickly locate a person in the event of an emergency. The EPIRB also includes an AIS capability to help a search and rescue team to reach a victim faster. The unit comes with a high frequency antennae and 10 year battery life.
Specifications
- The worlds first EPIRB to include localized alert and recovery via AIS
- Combining the benefits of multiple life saving products in one Beacon
- Built in AIS
- Multi GNSS including Galileo
- Accidental activation protection

Rick is the head writer at MaydayMarine.com Rick creates product review and ranking content in the maritime industry. His focus is mainly on safety offshore at MayDayMarine.com