In Hyères, in the Var region, a device designed to help boaters locate the 300-meter coastal zone is being promoted by its manufacturer, Oriotech, a company based in La Seyne-sur-Mer. Called Gobi 300, the device is aimed at sea users, particularly recreational boaters and jet skiers.
What we know
The Gobi 300 is a waterproof GPS tracking device with a built-in warning light. According to Oriotech’s description, red indicates the 300-meter coastal zone, and yellow indicates certain extended zones up to 600 meters. The company states that the device is manufactured in Cuers, in the Var region of France, with some components sourced from abroad. ( gobi300.fr )
This issue directly concerns the Var coastline, where regulations and buoys govern navigation near beaches. The Ministry of the Sea reminds boaters that, in channels and within 300 meters of the shore, the speed limit is generally 5 knots, and that marked swimming areas are off-limits to vessels. ( mer.gouv.fr )
The production figures reported in the source article, however, warrant caution: its title mentions 500 units produced and 50 sold, while the body of the text refers to the « Gobi 500, » whereas the product presented is the Gobi 300. Without independent confirmation, these figures cannot be considered established. The article also attributes to Oriotech an investment of €150,000 and a plan to approach municipalities and coastal communities.
A guide, not a substitute for navigation rules
For sailors, the stated benefit is having a visual reference point even when seasonal buoys are not in place. However, the device does not replace navigational aids, charts and required documents, or other appropriate safety equipment. The Ministry specifies that the requirements vary depending on factors such as distance from a safe haven and the type of vessel. ( mer.gouv.fr )
The next steps
Oriotech says it intends to offer the device to coastal communities, in addition to selling to individuals. At this stage, this is an initiative announced by the company: no decision by a municipality in the Var department to equip itself with the device has been confirmed in the available information. Interested boaters can consult the presentation of the Gobi 300 on the Oriotech website and check local regulations with their harbor master’s office.
Source: Var
Original article: See the original source
