Which PLB for Cozumel

[mcpowell]

What are you using in Cozumel as a personal locator beacon? I am just beginning my search, and I like the idea of the Nautilus because it’s already waterproof and would not need a canister. However, I understand the Nautilus doesn’t really reach out to satellites, it reaches out to nearby boats.

Are most of the diveboats tuned in to devices iike the Nautilus?

Or are you using a GPS capable PLB with a canister?

I do have a DSMB, mirror, whistle, hanky, etc. But after diving last time and hunting for that lost diver for an hour, it has me thinking I want some sort of PLB.

 

[gmerick]

My latest purchase Garmin InReach mini plus environment case good for 300 ft. I've been towing it on my dive flag, because even without subscription it functions as a GPS route recorder. If taken under water, it will record entry/exit points and surface swim. Subscriptions can be monthly or yearly, and it includes web tracker, limited messaging, and SOS/Rescue.

 

[Kendall Raine]

As you already know a Nautilus is not a PLB (EPIRB) in that it does not communicate with COSPAS/SARSAT direct to NOAA (other). It is a GPS transponder intended for overwater use with limited transmission range to AIS/DSC equipped boats. Doesn't mean it's not useful (it is), just not what you asked for. As for the manufacturer's claim that "is more than a PLB, more than an EPIRB" I have no idea WTF that means. That's like saying a screw driver is more than a hammer. On a recent trip to Indonesia I carried both. I have an Ocean Signal RescueMe PLB1 which I carry in a Custom Divers canister. Great form factor. Seven year battery. It is waterproof but not pressure proof. Unlike the Nautilus can be used in the backcountry (hiking, backpacking, skiing). Just requires clear view of the sky.

RescueME PLB1

Ocean Signal rescueME PLB1: Your compact lifesaver for outdoor adventures. Trusted beacon technology for reliable distress signaling. Buy now!

oceansignal.com

Water proof PLB Canisters, Belt or Harness Mounted Canisters

Custom Divers sells & stocks a wide range of PLB Canisters, Belt or Harness Mounted Canisters, for use with Fast Find 200, 210, 220. Our water proof canisters can be used to store flares.

www.customdivers.com

 

[DandyDon]

hanky

What is that?

I do have a DSMB, mirror, whistle,

Storm whistle? Those seem to be the loudest aside from the Dive Alert whistle that hooks up to your BC inflator hose and can be heard for a mile. I carry both and the ResQLink™ View - ACR ARTEX in a Custom Divers canister hooked to my BC with a bolt snap.

 

[Brodydog]

What is that?

I believe that’s called humor. It gave me chuckle, mcpowell.

 

[mcpowell]

Do y’all know if any dive operators have the AIS radios used by Nautilus?

Or is that just wishful thinking?

 

[NDL_Diver]

Do y’all know if any dive operators have the AIS radios used by Nautilus?

Or is that just wishful thinking?

Cruise ships. Aldora has a few.

 

[Dan]

As you already know a Nautilus is not a PLB (EPIRB) in that it does not communicate with COSPAS/SARSAT direct to NOAA (other). It is a GPS transponder intended for overwater use with limited transmission range to AIS/DSC equipped boats. Doesn't mean it's not useful (it is), just not what you asked for. As for the manufacturer's claim that "is more than a PLB, more than an EPIRB" I have no idea WTF that means. That's like saying a screw driver is more than a hammer. On a recent trip to Indonesia I carried both. I have an Ocean Signal RescueMe PLB1 which I carry in a Custom Divers canister. Great form factor. Seven year battery. It is waterproof but not pressure proof. Unlike the Nautilus can be used in the backcountry (hiking, backpacking, skiing). Just requires clear view of the sky.

RescueME PLB1

Ocean Signal rescueME PLB1: Your compact lifesaver for outdoor adventures. Trusted beacon technology for reliable distress signaling. Buy now!

oceansignal.com

Water proof PLB Canisters, Belt or Harness Mounted Canisters

Custom Divers sells & stocks a wide range of PLB Canisters, Belt or Harness Mounted Canisters, for use with Fast Find 200, 210, 220. Our water proof canisters can be used to store flares.

www.customdivers.com

Don’t forget to carry PLB1 mounting strap as you would get tried of holding it up above the waves for hours.

 

[ggunn]

In my mind I have invented another signaling device. It would be a small high pressure cylinder of helium connected to a long string and a balloon. Push a button and the balloon is filled and released.

 

[Jaan]

I've often thought about something like that too.. if you could get a balloon up there like a flare with a flashing light you'd see it easily for miles ... of course, wind could be an issue in stormy seas

For waterproof canisters, lots of options including of course our DRYFOB XLs We recently had someone take them down to 700ft for a few hours with no issues (outside a submersible).

For Cozumel, there are definitely lots of boats and most dives are guided ... but of course, its always better to be prepared for the worst.
Some strong currents out there without a doubt..