Garmin OnBoard wireless man overboard detection and engine cutoff system automatically marks MOB waypoint on chartplotter, tracks up to 8 waterproof tags.
U.S. Coast Guard accident data for 2024 showed that 239 falls overboard reported led to 138 deaths – making man overboard, or MOB, by far the most lethal among recreational boating’s top casualty causes. Ejections and falls overboard or within the vessel contributed to 41% of U.S. boating fatalities between 2022 and 2024.
The emergence of wireless MOB systems has taken away the primary excuse for not using them: Being tethered to the boat via an engine cutoff switch lanyard restricts movement on deck. A new tether-free option to consider is the Garmin OnBoard system that works on any boat with an engine cutoff switch and compatible Garmin chartplotter. OnBoard tracks up to eight MOB tags, which can be worn as a wristband or on a carabiner or key ring float, and designated as either captain or passenger.
The system hub connects to a 10-32V DC power source. Photo, Garmin.
As soon as a tag is submerged and an MOB is detected, the system marks a waypoint on the chartplotter and audible alarms sound. If it’s the captain overboard, the system shuts off the engine. Captains can also disable the engine via a button-press on their tag. Garmin smartly designed the system to easily disable tags temporarily for swimming.
OnBoard tags are compatible with Garmin ECHOMAP and GPSMAP chartplotters. Tag battery life should last a single season of typical operation, according to Garmin.
$499.99. Additional MOB tags are $149.99 each. Installation by a qualified marine installer is recommended | garmin.com/marine