Dennis O’Neill rounds up the latest marine innovations, including developments in women’s sailing jackets
ZOLEO
SATELLITE COMMUNICATOR
£199
Waterproof and rugged Iridium-based accessory that extends smartphone messaging coverage globally. Just link it to its dedicated app on your phone or tablet to immediately send and receive messages from the remotest parts of the ocean. Features ‘Check-In’ and ‘SOS’ facilities which will update your contacts at regular intervals from every six minutes to every four hours. Internal GPS means it is constantly location-aware (to within 2.5m), while its rechargeable Lithium Ion battery provides over 200 hours of life from a single two-hour charge. Weight: 150g. Size: 91 x 66 x 27mm. Comes with a two year warranty. Subscriptions from £18 p/m.
HALO/HALO+
LIGHTWEIGHT LIFERAFTS
FROM £1,250
Range of two new compact, ultralight liferafts, designed for vessels that don’t need to comply with MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency) regulations. Both are fully vacuum-sealed to guarantee three-year intervals between services thereby reducing maintenance costs. They come complete with insulated floor and large water ballast pockets for increased stability when deployed. The Halo+ has a fully self-erecting canopy to provide immediate shelter and respite from storm conditions. The canopy can be removed and reinstalled, if necessary. Available to buy or rent in two-, four-, six- or eight-person versions.
ODEO SOS
ELECTRONIC FLARE
£85
This is the latest electronic visual distress signal (eVDS) from Daniamant. Originally designed to meet stringent US Coast Guard requirements, its powerful high-intensity LED strobe light throws out a bright, internationally recognised SOS morse signal. Lightweight and buoyant, with intuitive controls, it sports a quick-twist operation that allows a casualty to activate the distress signals quickly and efficiently, even in high-stress situations, with cold, gloved hands, to ensure they are easily spotted, even in challenging low-light conditions. Four AA L91 lithium batteries provide nine hours of operation.
GILL OS3
WOMEN’S COASTAL JACKET
FROM £220
Designed with 88% recycled fabric to help reduce environmental impact, this new women’s yachting jacket is made from Gill’s XPLORE two-layer fabric and XPEL fabric treatment for improved water repellency and stain resistance. Features a fully lined hi-vis hood with two-way adjustment system, high cut thermal collar, adjustable cuffs and taped seams.
MUSTO BR1
WOMEN’S CHANNEL JACKET
£250
This classic-cut jacket has an outer layer that will remain completely waterproof in persistent shower
