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We often get people asking us why they should purchase a Marine VHF Radio when a cell phone can have a strong signal whilst out on the water. The answer is simple – we acknowledge that cell phones are a great tool to have on a boat…But – VHF radios are a form of communication that will ensure your distress messages are broadcasted and are more likely to get a rapid response of help.  ...

Make radio contact with the nearest volunteer marine rescue group and provide your vessel location; nature of the problem; and a number of people on board. Discharge parachute rocket flare when completely dark – discharge another one within one minute of the first being let off. If other vessels are nearby or you are within five kilometers of land, discharge a red hand-held flare every 30 minutes.  ...

Speaking of DSC, arguably the single most distinguishing feature of any handheld VHF (even more so than battery life) is whether or not it includes this feature—a technology that allows the user to send out a digital distress message to the Coast Guard or any other DSC-equipped vessels in the area that clearly indicates your identity, your location and the nature of the emergency.  ...

Over the years, handheld VHFs have become both a good deal more reliable and, in many cases, a good deal more sophisticated than in years past. This has resulted in a wide range of models that vary dramatically in terms of size, performance, and features. Still, one of the first things you need to think about when choosing a particular model remains how long the radio will continue to function on a single charge, something that is largely a function of battery size.   ...

MMSI is Maritime Mobile Service Identity and a unique 9 digit number that is entered into DSC-marine radio equipment. The MMSI number contain you or your vessel information. When using this equipment to send a distress alert or to indicate some other emergency, the number is transferred into the coast guard’s database to assists the emergency services center to identify you or your vessel and react quickly.  ...

Radio travels as waves… similar to light, and like light, it can be reflected, reduced, or even stopped by other objects. A popular answer is 'line of sight’ which essentially means 'if you can see it, you can talk to it'. This is generally a good guide. You must remember that the radio signal comes from the radio aerial (not the radio itself) and therefore mounting the antenna higher allows the radio to 'see' further.  ...

Here are some basic pointers for VHF marine radio newbies. Even if you're a seasoned hand, it is worth pointing this out and passing it on to green hands aboard. Think of you're loved ones, friends, crew-mates, or passengers in your care completely helpless should you become incapacitated.  ...

For novices, we need to study carefully what the channels of maritime walkie-talkies mean and what functions they have. Below we will introduce the uses of some common channels.  ...

For good reasons, VHF maritime broadcasting is becoming more and more popular with rowers., They can save lives and are easy to use. In maritime communications, they are more effective than CB radios or mobile phones. VHF broadcasting has a more consistent reception than mobile phones. No license is required for use on leisure boats.  ...

Turn your VHF marine radio and pick a channel, set the squelch where you don’t hear any noise, and begin talking. Things to remember when you are on the radio: Monitor CH-16. It is an unwritten rule for marine radio users when you are not actively in conversation with someone else.  ...