Best VHF marine radio handheld

Best VHF marine radio handheld [2024] Reviews & Guide

If you are traveling on the water, you will need a virtual device named handheld VHF radio. A VHF radio will help you contact the Coast Guard and other vessels while traveling at sea. It may be the only way to receive information away from the shore, outside the range of cell phones and other communication devices. So, it is a wise decision to carry a handheld VHF radio during the voyage. so guys, get prepared for know details what is the best VHF marine radio handheld in the market

You should know another important device requires for sea traveling of fishing is binoculars.

What is a Handheld VHF Radio?

A handheld VHF radio easy to portable. The range of VHF marine radio is inclusive between 156.0 and 174 MHz. The letters VHF stand for “very high frequency. We can use” VHF radios for ship communication and install it on both large and small vessels. It is possible to call the Coast Guard with VHF for rescue.

It is also useful to communicate with marinas and harbors, and the operators of bridges and locks. If you have the right tool, i.e., the suitable VHF radio with you, you will be able to perform the task quite smoothly.

To help you choose the right device, we will provide you with some useful information regarding the features of a VHF radio and when to use them. We will also write about different unique typesinformation about the devices so you can know which one you should choose for specific communication tasks.

Benefits of Handheld VHF

Here are some essential facts about handheld VHF units that you should know when you decide to buy a VHF marine radio. They may transmit information about your location in more than one way. For instance, some receivers have a GPS function. If you are sailing, you need to carry a VHF radio on the boat or ship-mounted on the vessel. Board-mounted VHF radios operate on power that is either from ship power or electricity.

If you encounter the storm, fire, or flood, your boat or ship may lose control, and the mechanics may cannot operate.

In this situation, the mounted VHF radio will cannot work. The handheld VHF radio would be your only choice in this situation. You can charge a handheld VHF radio from a few hours to 16 or 20 hours from anywhere.

Many channel frequencies, including weather channels, come up to a handheld VHF radio. When you are in a critical situation, you can watch the updated information stored for you.

Type of Marine VHF Radios

There are two types of marine VHF radios: handheld and fixed-mount. We are going to provide you a conception about them below.

  • Handheld VHF marine Radio
  • Fixed-mount VHF marine Radio

What is Handheld VHF marine Radio

Nowadays, handheld VHF radios are extraordinarily necessary devices. They are easily portable for their compact size, and their independent battery banks make them reliable backup for a boat’s fixed unit.

On small craft sailing in a short-range of communication, like short day boats, personal watercraft, and sea kayaks, require handheld VHF radios.

In terms of basic features, an excellent portable VHF radio should have waterproof and buoyant, large buttons, easily legible screen, idiot-proof shortcuts, and a user-friendly interface.

It should also possess an adjustable output to lengthen battery life, and a generous arrangement of channels presets (with dual or even triple scan facility). Moreover, a lengthy warranty of three years or more and potential transmission power of around 5W are also a valuable option.

What is Fixed-mount VHF marine Radio

A Fixed-mount VHF marine radio always provides better performance than a handheld unit because of its large, elevated, external aerial, and its generous physical proportions. You can expect to transmit ion- the power of around 25W–and practice to extend your range beyond that of a handheld.

The nature of the installation is essential. Try to place it as high as possible on a vertical antenna and permanently enable it to ‘see’ beyond the next curve of the horizon.

The higher the installation, the better the performance, and that goes for the receiving antennae as well. All the new fixed-mount VHF marine radios can call DSC, enabling you to alert other sailboats, ships, and shore stations with pressing only one button.

These DSC capabilities can work when connected to a GPS. Fixed radios need installation as well as power source connection, VHF antenna, and GPS.

Is a License Needed for a Handheld VHF Radio?

In most cases, a license is not necessary to carry and use a handheld VHF radio. But in case of operating a commercial and international vessel, it is exceptional. Also note that if the receiver you will purchase includes DSC capability, then you will need to obtain a 9-digit number known as a “maritime mobile service identity (MMSI)” number.

Here, you have to register it with the Coast Guard. A user has to have a license. This type of permit is essential if you use your portable radio on more than one vessel.

Let’s have a look

VHF marine radio handheld Product Chart

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Best VHF marine radio handheld [2021] Reviews & Guide

Uniden Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner

We have decided to keep “The Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner on the top of our list. It has a unique feature called Close Call Technology. The Close Call RF Captured tunes instantly to signals from nearby transmitters.

The Close Call Does Not Disturb in performance. It does not even hinder the close call checker during a transmission. This radio is compact and has some unique features with weather alert technology and capable of attaching to civilian and military air bands.

It can receive conventional channels on the following frequencies: (25-54 MHz) (108-174 MHz) (225-380 MHz) (400-512 MHz) “. You can even Preset for Popular Channels. Also, you can track who you are listening to. Moreover, you can listen to over 40000 frequencies, both civilian and military bands, including police, Fire, weather, Marine, Aircraft, and many more.

Key Features

  • This sophisticated scanner has 500 alpha-tagged channels.
  • This sophisticated scanner has 500 alpha-tagged channels.
  • Close Call RF capture technology tunes to signals from nearby transmitters.
  • Has listening capability to Over 40,000 Frequencies,
  • Both civilian and military bands are available.
  • 500 channels divided into ten storage banks.
  • Alpha Tagging option lets you assign names to your channels.

Uniden MHS75 Waterproof Handheld 2-Way VHF Marine Radio

Key Features

  • JIS8 Waterproof Level
  • Submersible up to 30 minutes at five feet.
  • Select between 1, 2.5, and 5 Watts for short- and long-range communication.
  • The MHS75 covers all USA, International, and Canadian marine channels.
  • Triple Watch mode monitor channels 16 and 9 for a signal.
  • The marine radio checks Channel 16 and 9 for activity every 2 seconds.

We have put Uniden MHS75 Waterproof Handheld 2-Way VHF Marine Radio in the second position of our list. The manufacturer has designed this compact, well built, rugged handheld Marine radio with JIS8/IPX8 rated submersible-outstanding features. Some essential accessories included with this device are a rapid clip-on DC charger and Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery.

There is an SMA Flexible Rubber Antenna along with the device. Also, there is a sturdy belt clip for maximum mobility. The device has a remarkably undergoing capability. It can bear splash, gusty spray, tidal waves very smoothly. It can survive up to 30 minutes at five feet deep water. 

You can choose a handheld unit between 1, 2.5, and 5 watts for short and long-range communication. In most of the situation, the 1-watt transmission power is better for you. If you keep yourself away from the other stations and face trouble to get a response, you can have a device with 1 watt to 2.5 watts.


Cobra Marine Radio - MR HH150 FLT Long Range, Handheld, VHF Radio

Key Features

  • It is a Floatable device.
  • An orange core makes it easy to see while floating.
  • It is a waterproof device.
  • 30 minutes of protection at a one-meter depth.
  • Equipped with rechargeable batteries.
  • Capable of long-range communication.
  • Usable for international communication.

We have kept The Cobra Marine Radio- MR HH150FLT -3 watt, Floating, Long Range, Handheld VHF Radio, in the third place in our list. It is a handheld floating radio. The manufacturer has designed to use “On the water” experience for many water sports.

The HH150 has a user-friendly interface, a large display, and floating capabilities with indicators. Besides, it has TX/RX signal strength, battery status, scan, DW, and Weather channel to keep you safe in all situations.

The MR HH150 possess a rechargeable AAA batteries (included) with the option of carrying additional standard AAA batteries to avoid ever being powerless, especially in emergencies. Moreover, its maximum range and low power consumption for an extended operating time give the marine enthusiasts excessive reliability and peace of mind.

It’s Convenient to use in all conditions. It’s Quality has made it more dependable to the users. Its floatable option has given it much utility to the consumers.


Cobra MRHH350FLT Floating VHF Long Range Tri-Watch Marine Radio

Key Features

  • A floatable device.
  • Submersible for 30 minutes in 3ft/1M deep water.
  • Usable for short and long-range communication.
  • Tri-Watch option can monitor three channels simultaneously.
  • Capable of international coverage.
  • Provide emergency or threatening weather.

We are eager to keep Cobra MRHH350FLT Floating VHF Long Range Marine Radio in our choice list. It is also one of the essential handheld VHF radio at present. Backed by 50 years of Cobra quality, this floatable radio has an orange core that makes it extra visible to users. So, with dropping on water, it is easy to retrieve it from the sea.

As it floats on water, there is no possibility of losing it. It is submersible up to 30 minutes under 3ft/1 meter deep water. So, you should not worry about it getting damaged quickly.

You can smoothly communicate in a short or long-range with a 1.3 or 6-watt device, and so you will never feel alone on the water. It possesses a tri-watch option that helps you to monitor three channels simultaneously.

It has international coverage with three-channel maps that will assist you in navigating around the USA, Canada and global water. Moreover, it has weather channels that will help you know the incoming hazards or to change the weather.


Standard Horizon HX890NB Marine Two Way Radios

Key Features

  • Secure communications on the water
  • A built-in FM Broadcast band included.
  • Rugged case construction conforms to Military Standard (MIL-STD-810F)
  • Built-in Integrated 66 channel WAAS GPS Receiver.
  • Integrated GPS option.
  • Three years of waterproof warranty.

We have sequentially kept Standard Horizon HX890NB Marine Two-Way Radios in our list of choices. Handheld VHF marine radio is an portable device, so you can use it while you are in a boat or ship in the sea.

It has an integrated GPS option through which you can identify the location quite easily. Also, it carries a high-rated transmitter calculating 6 Watt, which dispatches information rapidly. Also, it has an FM radio receiver built-in option by which you can listen to national and international news. The device is floatable, so there is no possibility of losing it.

The manufacturer has newly redesigned HX890 with a new ergonomic case. They have also thoroughly tested it to conform to the Military Standard (MIL-STD-810F). The device comes out with almost all the accessories, including the rechargeable Li-Ion battery, Alkaline battery, tray, 110V wall charger, 220V adapter, charging cradle, 12V charger, PC programming cable, and belt lip. The manufacturers offer three years of waterproof warranty.


Standard Horizon HX300 Standard HX300 Handheld VHF Marine Radio

Key Features

  • Large 1.75" LCD.
  • 5 or 1 Watts of transmission power.
  • All scanning functions including Programmable, Priority Scan and Dual/Tri Watch.
  • A floatable device.
  • Selectable 5 and 1 Watt transmission power output.
  • Durable Rechargeable battery.

We have also included Standard Horizon HX300 Standard HX300 Handheld VHF Marine Radio on our list. The HX300 is entirely a compact 5W FLOATING handheld VHF. If it drops in the water, it activates a flashing strobe light to help recover the unit.

The HX300 comes out with a high capacity of 1650 mAh. It also has a 3.7V Lithium-ion non-memory rechargeable battery that ensures a longer time. Also, it has a durable belt clip. There is an USB charger of 110/220VAC along with the device. Other key features include programmable scan Priority Scan, Tri-watch, and Dual Watch functions.

There are ten channel preset selection key, 600 mW internal audio speaker, and a new Easy to operation menu. You can find compact floating handheld devices on the market today. It has a submersible duration for 30 minutes.

Furthermore, it has selectable 5, and 1 Watt transmission power output. As a result, it can dispatch information quickly to the expected region. The manufacturers provide a 3-year waterproof warranty of HX300.


Uniden MHS126 Handheld V.H.F. Marine Radio. IPX8/JIS8 Weather Channels with Weather Alert.

Key Features

  • Large 1.75" LCD.
  • 5 or 1 Watts of transmission power.
  • All scanning functions including Programmable, Priority Scan and Dual/Tri Watch.
  • A floatable device.
  • Selectable 5 and 1 Watt transmission power output.
  • Durable Rechargeable battery.

We have included Uniden MHS126 Handheld Submersible 2-Way 6W V.H.F. Marine Radio in the list of our choice. The size and design of the radio are excellent, and so it is easily carryable in your pocket. The structure of the receiver is compact and sturdy, so if it drops accidentally, there is a little chance of breaking. Also, it has a large display that is clear enough to operate comfortably.

It bears a good range of listening advantages measuring JIS8/IPX8. Besides, it is submersible or waterproof and can sustain submersible conditions up to 30 minutes without getting any damage.

Moreover, it floats on water, so if it drops on water, there no reason for worrying. The manufacturers have designed it with an emergency strobe that helps you to work correctly, even if there is no light or electricity. The radio supports almost all the U.S.A./International and Canadian Marine Channels. Furthermore, it has an adjustable transmit output power that helps maximize battery life.


ICOM IC-M73 01 Icom IC-M73 01 Handheld VHF Marine Radio, 6 Watts

Key Features

  • Easy-to-hold hourglass design.
  • Optional Speaker/Mic
  • 6 Watts of transmission power.
  • Includes charger and cigarette lighter adapter.
  • Waterproof/submersible.
  • 30 minutes of protection underwater.

We have also enlisted Icom IC-M73 01 Handheld VHF Marine Radio in our choice list. The IC-M73 has a stylish and user-friendly design. A durable and rocky body provides long life for user-friendly operation.

A wide viewing angle and high-intensity LCD offers vivid brightness to read the characters. IC-M73 continuously offers Icon “s best waterproof protection. The radio can survive for 30 minutes after being submersed in 1.5m (4.9ft) depth of water. The IC-M73 has a BTL (bridge-tied load) amplifier that can make audio output doubles.

Its internal mic can make a loud 700 mW audio output with a clear sound. The IC-M73’s 6 Watts of transmitting can provide an extended communication range for the user. A large capacity Lithium-Ion battery works around 18 hours under normal conditions.

It has some more additional features like Aqua-Quake water draining function, Dual/Tri Watch, Scan functions, 4 level battery indicator, optional waterproof speaker-microphone, and power save function. Manufacturers offer 3 years of warranty. The dimensions of the device are 2.1 “W x 4.9 “H x 1.2 “D; Wt.: 11.3 oz. in the box.


STANDARD HORIZON HX870 Floating 6W Handheld VHF with Internal GPS, Black

Key Features

  • Integrated 66 channel WAAS GPS.
  • Built-in 70 Channel Class “D” DSC.
  • User Selectable Output Power up to 6 Watts. USB Data Port.
  • Preset Key Stores 10 Favorite Channels
  • Oversized full dot matrix display.
  • Submersible IPX8 waterproof rating. NOAA Weather Channel with Weather Alert.

We have finally chosen STANDARD HORIZON HX870 Floating 6W Handheld VHF with Internal GPS Black on our list. It is one of the latest model devices. The device has a GPS option, so it can quickly identify the location of the boat, ship, or vessels. There are 66 channels with this receiver so that you can get information about the national and international levels.

It has both AM and PM band, so local and international news or information can simply be heard. You can make short and long-range communication comfortable with this device.

It is also floatable, so there is no option to lose it in case of dropping on the water. You can ordinarily preset key stores for ten favorite channels with this device. It has selectable output power up to 6 watts, and so it can communicate to an extended range. Moreover, you can transmit a distress message, report your position, or send calls with your expected persons. Nowadays, it is a perfect device for everyday use.


Standard Horizon HX210 HX210 6W Compact Floating Marine Handheld Vhf

Key Features

  • 6W Ultra compact handheld VHF
  • With FM Band Receiver, large 1850 mAh battery
  • Easy to Operate menu system
  • NOAA WX with Weather Alert, scan, dua/tri watch
  • Waterproof and floatable
  • Features with weather alert and Triwatch

We have included STANDARD HORIZON HX40 6 Watt VHF Ultra Compact Handheld Marine Radio in our choice list. It is indeed a unique device for clear sound. The size and shape of the radio is really nice and it is as like as a playing card.

You can set up the radio anywhere of the ship or vessel you like. As the size of the radio is as small as a playing card, you can easily carry it in your pocket. It has a unique range of HX40 with a very visible Dot Matrix display.

It is waterproof and floatable. It also has clear and bright backlit display that helps you use it at night without the presence of light. Moreover, the radio has FM band option through which you can listen both inland and overseas news.

In addition, the device has the advantages of NOAA(National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration), weather alert as well as dual/Tri watch. Furthermore, you can use it in all USA/International and Canadian Marine Channels.


What to consider while buy a VHF Marine radio

VHF Radio is an important safety tool for all mariners who venture out on the water, whether offshore or on inland waterways. You can use VHF marine radios for a variety of purposes, including contacting harbors & marinas, summoning rescue services, or ship-to-shore and ship-to-ship communication.

It is confusing to choose the right radio because of the range of models and features available. Here we will indicate some important considerations when choosing a VHF marine portable of fixed wireless.

Channels and frequencies

Marine VHF radios are a combined transmitter and receiver that can operate on standard, international frequencies known as channels. Channel 16 (156.8 MHz) is the global, and distress calling channel.

Transmission power supports between 1 and 25 watts, providing a highest range of up to 60 nautical miles (111 km) between aerials fixed on tall ships and hills, and five nautical miles (9 km; 6 mi) between antennae mounted on small boats at sea level.

There is a Frequency modulation (FM) with vertical polarization, and so the antennas have to be upright to have good reception. To get a more extended range of communication at sea Marine MF and Marine HF bands, you can use satellite phones. The ITU governs the frequencies, channels, and some of their purposes.

The original distribution of channels consisted of only channels 1 to 28 with 50 kHz spacing between channels, and the second frequency.

Recommended Features for Handheld VHF Radio

GPS

Nowadays, it is possible to buy a handheld VHF radio, which includes internal GPS. As just discussed, this feature can incorporate nicely with DSC to bring rescue teams directly to your location in case of an emergency.

There are also other valuable uses for GPS. You can use it to see your exact map that coordinates at any time. You also can create waypoints to help you keep track of where you are at the moment. It is a particularly great feature for a fisherman or a scuba diver.

VHF radios range

Most of the handheld VHF radios allow you to transmit on up to 6 watts. Simply, you should try to find a model that provides you with multiple settings. You can transmit information on a lower wattage when you want to conserve power.

A maximum range is up to 60 nautical miles (111 km) between aerials mounted on tall ships and hills, and five nautical miles (9 km; 6 mi) between aerials mounted on small boats at sea level if you are transmitting on a 25-watt radio.

Antennas need to be vertical to have the best reception. Marine radios are mainly suitable for short-range communications, generally 5-10 miles. To communicate at longer ranges, you will usually need a satellite telephone or an MF/HF marine radiotelephone.

Marine radiotelephone equipment operates typically between 2 - 26 MHz using single-sideband emissions. 

Waterproofing and Buoyancy

Waterproofing and buoyancy is an essential trait of a VHF radio. Sometime, the receiver may accidentally drop overboard while keeping it is in your hand. In handheld VHF marine radio, there should have a waterproofing option. So, before buying a VHF radio unit, make sure that the receiver is more than just water-resistant.

The best rating VHF radios are IPX7 and IPX8, which provide waterproofing in up to three feet of water or more than three feet of water, respectively.

Also, you should purchase such a buoyant radio. That means if you accidentally drop it in the water, it will float on the surface. So, you will easily find it again.

At present, some handheld sets have strobe lighting so that the user can find them easily in the water. It could surely be a life-saving device.

Standard Horizon HX890 Handheld VHF Navy Blue - Floating 6 Watt Class H DSC Two Way Radio

Dual or Tri brand/watch

The set you are looking for should have dual or tri-watch for scanning between channels while monitoring channel 16 as well as a customizable scan function. You can track all the channels you need without missing any call.

Moreover, it allows you to monitor two or three channels at the same time. With this feature, you won't miss out on discussion, news, or other announcements from other channels.

Be mindful of the laws in the area you're boating in because some countries forbid these features for obvious privacy-related reasons.

Battery Life

The tradeoff with a buoyant radio is that it is small and lightweight, and so it can only fit smaller batteries with a shorter life. Larger models need bigger batteries that provide power for a more extended period before they require recharging or replacement.

You have to decide depending on your needs, whether it is more important to have a buoyant radio or one with the most extended possible battery life.

(2-Pack) 7.2V 1800mAh Ni-MH Battery Pack Compatible for Yaesu Vertex FNB-V94 FNB-83 FT-60R FNB-V57 FNB-64 VX-410 VX-420 VX-420A VX-150 VX-160 VX-170 VX-180 FT-270 Two Way Radio

Navigation and tracking Feature GPS

Navigation is a study that focuses on the practice of observing and controlling the movement of ships or vehicles from one place to another. The field of navigation includes four general categories: land navigation, marine navigation, aeronautic navigation, and space navigation.

Since the introduction of GPS Navigation systems, consumers and business people have been trying to find out innovative ways to apply technology in their everyday life.

GPS Navigation and Tracking systems keep us safe from getting lost when we are in remote area. They monitor children when they stay away from home.

They aslo keep track of business vehicles, and even let us know where a philandering partner is at all times. Because of these advantages, we try to keep a GPS tracking device to solve the mentioned problems.

Emergency

An emergency is such a situation that poses an immediate threat to a person's health, security, property, or environment. Knowing, or seeing the kinds of the case, you have to attempt to handle the situation.

Besides, assessment of the signs that make up an emergency will help you know how to handle it. Moreover, being well-prepared for an emergency will assist you more accurately when it's time to handle any emergency.

Scanning

For proper scanning, both Dual Watch and Tri Watch are useful features in handheld VHF radios. If a receiver has Dual Watch, it can comfortably monitor a priority channel as well as a secondary channel concurrently.

If there is a Tri Watch option on the radio, it can to actively monitor three channels at the same time.

You can include the priority channel, channel 09, and any third channel that you wish to watch. Some radios have even Quad Watch system, which let you monitor four channels simultaneously.

Weather Alerts

Weather alerts are indeed an essential function in a receiver. It includes alerts and updates from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). It is a nationwide service that warns of the stormy or rainy or windy weather.

It is also useful for Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) alerts. NOAA operates at a national level, but SAME alerts provide you with regional updates.

Noise Cancellation

Clear hearing and transmission over your marine VHF handheld radio may mean the difference between life and death. There might have a lot of loud noises in the seas. Besides, the roaring of the ocean and the wind can be noisy.

Moreover, heavy raining, crashing waves, and shipboard noises mix with the sound of the sea. In this situation, you need a radio which can cut through background noise and isolate speech. Noise cancellation arrangement of VHF radios can smoothly make it possible.

Display

You will undoubtedly buy a VHF radio that has a backlit display so that you can see it at night. Nowadays, almost all the VHF radios made today contain them. The next choice is the LCD (like a watch), which is easy to read but cannot show a detailed image.

The Dot Matrix display is not as bright but shows a more complex image on the screen. We would recommend a dot Matrix display for you. If you buy a radio with GPS, it will help you to navigate using the monitor.  

Channels and frequencies

Marine VHF receiver is a combined transmitter and receiver that can operate on standard, international rates known as channels. Channel 16 (156.8 MHz) is the global, and distress calling channel.

Transmission power supportsbetween 1 and 25 watts, giving a highest range of up to 60 nautical miles (111 km) between aerials placed on tall ships and hills and five nautical miles (9 km; 6 mi) between antennae mounted on small boats at sea level. 

There is a Frequency modulation (FM) with vertical polarization, and so the antennas have to be upright to have good reception. To get a more extended range of communication at sea Marine MF and Marine HF bands, you can use satellite phones. The ITU governs the frequencies, channels, and some of their purposes.

The original allocation of channels consisted of only channels 1 to 28 with 50 kHz spacing between channels, and the second frequency.

Included Accessories

Necessary accessories are a must for operating a device smoothly. If you are going to purchase a Handheld VHF, the radio should have some essential accessories as standard with charger, battery, belt clip, wrist strap, and antenna.

But if you are a severe user or semi-commercial user, you will check if the radio has all the necessary accessories to help you that you are buying. You may also check if there are headsets, cases, or speaker microphones along with the set.

STANDARD HORIZON HX300 5W FLOATING HANDHELD VHF STANDARD HORIZON HX300 5W FLOATING HANDHELD VHF

Maintenance of  VHF marine radio

Taking proper care of every valuable marine audio item on your boat is very important for their long life. You can find the essential information from the producers. Here are some rulesfor exact cleaning and other types of maintenance.

  • Switch off the receiver while charging the battery.
  • Clean radios with a small water and a microfiber cloth.
  • Use a damp cloth and wipe until the radios are clean.
  • Use only device-compatible batteries and chargers.
  • Keep the radio dry and charge only when needed.
  • Preserve equipment in a dry and cool place unless you use them.
  • Do not store inactive chargers radios or batteries.
  • Turn off radios before storing and remove the batteries.
  • Check the electric cables before using the radio.

Safety Tips for VHF marine radio 

Safety is always a compulsory matter. Here are some pieces of advice; you may find helpful.

  • Connect your radio to GPS for exact location and transmission.
  • Vacuum up all fiberglass dust after drilling the holes.
  • Do not hold or grab antenna radios.
  • Using the antenna as a handle consistently affect transmission and reception.
  • Overloading battery may reduce their lifespan.
  • Store the radio in a cold room.
  • Ensure that the radio works properly by performing a radio check.
  • First, tune in to an open frequency station.
  • Repeat three times, your vessel's name, calling "Radio Check, Radio Check, and Radio Check.
  • Test your radio and communication devices to ensure efficacy.

FAQ

What kind of charging options do you need?

If you purchase a model with rechargeable batteries, be sure to check the compatibility of the docking station to see whether you can plug it. Make sure that you can recharge it from your ship's power.

Content Toggle Headline

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et nam dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco name laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat

Content Toggle Headline

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et nam dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco nam laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat

Content Toggle Headline

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et nam dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco nam laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat

Wrap up

The buying guide plays a vital role at the time of buying any product. If you want to buy any standard or quality product, you should thoroughly read the buying guide. It will provide you essential information about your expected device.

I think you have read the manual, and now you know how to find the best marine VHF radio.

We are hopefully sure that you will quickly discover the device that you are looking for. If you find our guide helpful, forward it to your friends and family, who love sailing and love reading articles on different devices. 

6 Comments

  1. Hi …Thanks for your wonderful review..Very High Frequency or VHF is a way to communicate with land people on land (like Coast Guard), vessels, and getting regular weather updates. Yes, it is that important for sailors, navigators, and fishermen.

  2. Thank you , this has been very helpful.I have my FCC 1st Class General radio license and have worked on VHF portables all my career and I have a preference to Icon VHF portable radios. My only drawback to Icon is that you can’t adapt a high gain antenna to them. Thankyou

Leave a Reply