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The low cost VHF Marine Radios, whether they are fixed or handheld, provides you with basic functionality. This means, that they will provide basic communications well, but will not likely to have additional features. The performance of the radio will be quite adequate and help keep you safe while on the water.  ...

The reach of a two-way radio is largely dependent on the output power of the radio. This is measured in watts. As an example, a typical fixed mount radio outputs at 25 watts and is good for a range of in excess of 50 km unobstructed. Handheld radios typically transmit at 5 to 6 watts and are therefore good for a range of 12 to 18 kms.  This is only a rough measure as other aspects affect the effective range of a VHF radio. The antenna type, design and length will have an effect on range.  ...

In an emergency, communication is vital and a marine radio is essential. Mobile telephones, although useful as a backup communications system, cannot replace a marine radio.  ...

Each country has its own regulatory authority, here in the UK it is the responsibility of the Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) and OFCOM. These notes are for UK registered ships and are only meant as a guide. Non UK registered ships should check with the country of registration.  ...

VHF radio is also better suited to some boating activities than others. Making a call by handheld VHF radio for your boating activity. Always have a handheld, waterproof VHF radio on your person, preferably attached to your lifejacket. Also carry a registered emergency locator beacon, particularly when venturing any significant distance off the coast. Locator beacons work both at sea and on inland waterways. An EPIRB is preferred, but a PLB is a useful alternative.  ...

A VHF radio is your best two-way communication device at sea. With a VHF radio, calls can be received by Maritime Coastguard and by vessels which may be in position to give immediate assistance. A VHF marine radio also helps ensure that storm warnings and other urgent marine information broadcasts are received.  ...

There are many ways to communicate with others at sea ranging from signal flags to satellite phones. While it is not a legal requirement in most countries, leisure sailors are strongly encouraged to use a VHF DSC (Digital Selective Calling) Radio as their primary means of communication, since this is used by the rescue authorities and commercial shipping.   ...

Certificate held by Masters, Deck Officers or other shipboard personnel who perform radiocommunication duties on ships fitted with GMDSS equipment. Requires detailed practical knowledge of operation of all GMDSS sub-systems and equipment, ability to send and receive correctly by radiotelephone and narrow band direct printing (telex). Examined to the European Radiocommunication Committee (ERC) Decision ERC/DEC/(99)01, as amended, which is based on the harmonised syllabi developed by the  ...

VHF communication range depends mainly on the height of the antennas of the transmitting and receiving stations. By using VHF marine repeater stations, the range of ship to ship, ship to shore and shore to ship communications can be significantly increased. VHF marine repeaters are unmanned shore installations usually located at geographically high points. They are designed to transmit and receive simultaneously and will retransmit, or ‘repeat’ all signals received.  ...

The distress call Mayday may be used only if the boat is threatened by grave and imminent danger – for example, sinking or on fire – and immediate assistance is required. This distress call has absolute priority over all other transmissions and may be transmitted only on the authority of the skipper or the person responsible for the safety of your vessel.  ...