Category Archives :Maritime knowledge

The most popular way of communicating at sea is via a marine VHF (Very High Frequency) set. These are combined transmitter/receivers that operate on allocated frequencies known as ‘channels’. Marine VHF radios are used for a variety of purposes including; contacting harbours, marinas, locks, summoning the rescue services and ship-to-shore or ship-to-ship communication.  ...

ATIS stands for Automatic Transmitter Identification System. This system is used on inland waterways in a number of countries in mainland Europe. A unique FFSK data signal is sent out at the end of each voice transmission, containing the vessel's unique callsign, identifying you to marine coast stations and inland stations.  ...

In most places, boats are required to have a VHF radio on board. For cruising sailors, VHF radio is nearly ubiquitous. Even if you are near shore and have a smartphone, VHF radio is still important equipment. Marine bulletins, weather broadcasts, ship traffic information, DSC emergency calling, and the ability to broadcast information to many people at a once are a few reasons.  ...

Retevis powerful VHF RA27 marine radios have been designed for both OEM and aftermarket applications. Featuring an updated industrial design and sleek aesthetics. The RA27 is Retevis’s entry-level radio, offering 25W of transmit power and Class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC) compatibility via NMEA 2000.  ...

In the past, the Sea Tow automatic radio inspection system could be used in the U.S.A to detect the VHF marine radio, this system can be used on VHF channels 24 to 28. But now, this system is no longer available and was terminated on October 2, 2020. How can we continue to test our VHF marine radio for free? The answer is Rescue 21 coastal stations.  ...

No matter what type of sailor you are, no matter what boat you sail, an essential piece of kit is a good VHF marine radio. Not only does a marine radio serve as a vital safety tool in case something should go wrong onboard, but it is also a crucial communications tool more generally. With the development of time, VHF marine radios are not only used for communication purposes. Over the years. Many advances have been made in increasing functionality.  ...

Ship to paddle boats, safety is NO.1. So the boating essentials are important. First, we need to prepare in advance. Start with the safety checklist before departure or on the ship to check that all systems and required safety equipment are in working condition and onboard. Do not forget to plan ahead and check the weather report. Bad weather can make for an unpleasant or dangerous day at sea. Know what to expect before departing and avoid potential weather hazards  ...

The AIS system is using the MMSI, not the IMO number, to identify a vessel. The IMO number is part of the static AIS information provided by the vessel crew and can be transmitted additionally. So it could happen if you are searching a vessel in the vessel database by its IMO number that you find more than one entry because the vessel had different MMSI numbers in the past.  ...

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.  ...