Gear: why the personal locator beacon (PLB) should be on your 2026 checklist

Before each season, it's worth taking stock of the safety and navigation equipment on board. This week, our gear section looks at the personal locator beacon (PLB), an item whose usefulness is often underestimated. Beyond the regulatory aspect (mandatory safety equipment depends on the navigation category), choosing reliable, well-suited gear is crucial in case of an unexpected situation at sea. We recommend regularly checking expiry dates and the working condition of every item. Several specialist retailers in the region offer free equipment checks at the start of the season - a good opportunity to get everything in order before the first outings.