A Swiss-developed marine safety device designed to improve search-and-rescue operations at sea is being launched in Ireland at the start of the Round Ireland Yacht Race in Wicklow this weekend.
Airmarker, a balloon-based location system, will make its Irish debut through Dún Laoghaire chandlery Viking Marine. The device is designed to mark the position of a casualty or vessel in distress by deploying a highly visible balloon approximately five metres above the water.
Its developers say the system offers a longer-lasting visual reference than traditional pyrotechnic flares and can assist rescuers in locating people or vessels day and night.
The Irish launch is being supported by Dublin sailor Stephen Breen, who will carry the device aboard Spirit of Shackleton during the Round Ireland Race. “When the last of your flares go out — that’s if they work at all — Airmarker will pinpoint your position,” Breen said. “Every grab-bag should have one.”
Airmarker has already been adopted by a number of offshore racing sailors, including Vendée Globe skipper Oliver Heer.
Viking Marine is the first Irish retailer to stock the device. “We’re proud to be the first Irish stockist of Airmarker,” said Viking Marine's Ian O’Meara. “Safety gear only matters if it works when it’s needed most. This is a genuine step forward for anyone heading offshore.”
The launch coincides with one of Ireland’s most demanding offshore races, which starts from Wicklow on Saturday and attracts competitors from Ireland and abroad.
