B&G®, a global leader in marine electronics and navigation systems, has partnered with Ocean Safety to bring to market a breakthrough in man overboard (MOB) response technology: the Jon Buoy Smart Release, the first ever Ocean Safety product to integrate directly with a vessel’s navigation system.
Developed in close collaboration with Ocean Safety, the Jon Buoy Smart Release represents a major leap forward in automated life saving equipment. For the first time, activation of the MOB function is available on all B&G chartplotters and can immediately and automatically deploy a Jon Buoy Recovery Module, reducing critical response time and increasing the likelihood of a successful rescue.
“Integrating B&G technology with Ocean Safety’s trusted solutions marks an important step forward in how we help sailors stay safer and more confident on the water,” said Matt Eeles, Product Director, Electronic Solutions for Navico Group. “As the demands on sailors evolve, collaboration with leading partners solve real customer problems and shape the future of marine safety and performance.”
Life Saving Innovation, Powered by B&G®
When a person goes overboard, every second matters. By pressing the MOB button on the B&G chartplotter or control unit:
- The system instantly records the man overboard position
- The navigation system begins active guidance back to the casualty
- Simultaneously, the Smart Release unit automatically deploys the Jon Buoy Recovery Module, releasing vital flotation and safety equipment directly into the water
This unprecedented level of integration ensures that both digital and physical emergency responses occur with a single action.
A First for the Marine Safety Industry
The Jon Buoy Smart Release system is the first integrated solution combining a chartplotter’s MOB function with a physical deployment mechanism. The result is a seamlessly connected safety response that reduces human error and ensures equipment is deployed instantly – even in high stress situations.
“It’s the first time Ocean Safety has used this type of technology with one of our life saving products,” said Mark Acaster, Sales Director at Ocean Safety. “The integration enables the immediate deployment of the Jon Buoy Recovery Module – potentially saving lives even quicker. The confidence this gives skippers and crews is remarkable, as the system not only marks and navigates back to the casualty, but also deploys the necessary safety equipment – without hesitation and without additional steps. This is a true industry first.”
The innovation underscores B&G’s commitment to advancing marine safety through technology, enabling sailors, racers, and cruisers to benefit from faster, smarter, and more reliable emergency response capabilities.
For more information on B&G and its cutting-edge sailing innovation for over 70 years, please visit www.bandg.com.
For more information on Ocean Safety please visit www.oceansafety.com.
