RS20S VHF Radio with GPS Features: Built in GPS Antenna Receive GPS data from a compatible GPS unit: SMA connector for optional external GPS antenna (000-13613-001) Replaces the current RS12 entry level VHF NMEA2000 connectivity for advanced functionality like backlight grouping when connected to Simrad MFD’s NMEA0183 connectivity Output DSC (for DSC call), DSE ( for enhanced position when doing Lat/Long request and Buddy Track). New front mountable mechanical design for easy installation Low profile design to align with style of Simrad MFD’s Full inbuilt country specific channel banks no requirement for LC programming or cloning Start Up Wizard: Region & Country selection Enter MMSI Call sign GPS source selection Time offset Improved SCAN Features: ALL SCAN ALL CHANNELS + 16 MY CHANNELS MY CHANNELS + 16 Favourites Shortcut: Customizable favourite functions Defaults Contrast Sensitivity VHF info Channel Name: My Channels Set Channels as favourite channels Enter favourite channel mode by long pressing channel dial Only favourite channels will be included in channel scrolling Track up to 5 Buddies: Track buddy is a feature that automatically requests the position of another VHF radio. Simply enter the MMSI of the VHF into your contact list, then start tracking! Feature for Simrad entry level VHF radios Polls your contacts for their Lat/Long position automatically Can be set to 1, 5, 15, 30 or 60 minute intervals Displays the position on a compatible chart plotter Great for keeping track of friends, family or vessels you need to know the position of

GPS - Fishfinder Combos

RS40 VHF Radio with DSC & AIS Receiver Features: Simrad RS40 Replaces the current RS35 mid level VHF, updated to comply with EN 301 025 (v2.2.1) New front mountable design for easy installation Low profile design to align with style of Simrad MFD’s Seamless integration with a wider Simrad system through NMEA 2000 and 0183 Built in AIS Receiver Large screen with intuitive user interface Optional wireless handsets with inductive charging Unique Selling Points: GPS 4-Ways: With the integrated GPS receiver the RS40 now has four ways to ensure you have a GPS fix in the event of an emergency. A GPS antenna in the face of the radio means open air installations don’t need another antenna at all An SMA connector on the rear case allows for connection to a GPS-500 antenna NMEA 0183 allows you to get GPS from a chartplotter NMEA 2000 means you don’t need another antenna if you already have one in your network Built in AIS: A dual-channel AIS receiver monitors the position of nearby AIS-equipped vessels, helping you to avoid collisions in crowded harbours and waterways. AIS information can be viewed on the RS40’s built-in screen, or overlaid on your chart or radar screen through a compatible multifunction display. Wireless Handset: Add up to two optional wireless handsets to take your radio anywhere on board. The HS40 handset was designed as an intuitive portable companion to the RS40. Each handset duplicates your radio’s display and controls, enabling remote access to all key functions. Having multiple stations also allows the RS40 to double as a handy on-board intercom. Remote Mountable Fist Mic: The RS40’s removable fist mic can be connected to the front or rear of the radio, and optional extension cable allows the radio and mic to be mounted separately. This offers a simple and cost-effective solution for any mounting location, with no cable clutter. For example, the RS40 can be mounted overhead, with no hanging cables, while the mic is connected to an extension socket on the dash below. Mount From The Front: RS40 features easily removable top and bottom bezels which reveal mounting holes allowing the same style of mounting from the front that is featured on Simrad MFDs. Track Buddy: Track buddy is a feature that automatically requests the position of another VHF radio. Simply enter the MMSI of the VHF into your contact list, then start tracking! Track up to 5 buddies Polls your contacts for their Lat/Long position automatically Can be set to 1, 5, 15, 30 or 60 minute intervals Displays the position on a compatible chart plotter Great for keeping track of friends, family or vessels you need to know the position of that don’t have AIS Navigation Mode: Press the NAV button on the RS40 to turn it into a navigational instrument displaying your Speed and Course. RS40 also contains a Man Overboard (MOB) function, hold down the NAV/MOB button to drop a waypoint on your current location and the RS40 will enter MOB mode to show you how far away you are and where you need to steer to get back to the position of the MOB event. The MOB waypoint is also transmitted over NMEA 2000 to the rest of your network.

VHF Radios - Trouble-Free Communications at Sea  From compact VHF Radios to the ultimate all-in-one communications solution - Raymarine has a VHF Radio for every boater!  You'll always be heard loud and clear with a VHF Radio from Raymarine. Whether it's the new compact Ray53, full-sized Ray63, or multifunction Ray73, you can depend on your Raymarine VHF Radio for years of trouble-free communication at sea.       Ray 73 - Dual Station VHF Radio with GPS, AIS & Loudhailer  Raymarine's Ray73 radio is communications central for your boat with built-in VHF, AIS receiver and loudhailer capabilities. Built on our full-sized marine radio chassis, the Ray73 comes with oversized controls and a big screen for easy operation offshore. The Ray73 also supports optional wired or wireless RayMic controllers for true multi-station control and intercom capability. When connected to an optional hailing horn, the Ray73 can generate automatic fog signals and work as a public address announcement system.     Ray63 - Dual Station VHF Radio with GPS  Raymarine's Ray63 radio comes with oversized controls and a big screen for easy operation offshore. Ray63 is a full-function VHF marine radio with Class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC) and a built-in GPS receiver. The Ray63 also supports 1 wired or 2 wireless RayMic controllers for true multi-station control and intercom capability.     Ray53 - Compact VHF Radio with GPS  Raymarine's Ray53 radio is small in size but big on features and performance. Ray53 is a full-function VHF marine radio with Class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC) and a built-in GPS receiver. Simply program your boat's MMSI number into the Ray53 and immediately benefit from the enhanced calling and safety features of DSC.       Specials    Closeouts   Remanufactured    Rebates  

FM4850 Black Box VHF Radio with GPS, AIS, DSC & Loudhailer The Ultimate 5-In-1 Tool of VHF Radios The FM4850 is a marine Black Box VHF radiotelephone with built-in Class D DSC, AIS Receiver, and Simplified Loud Hailer with intercom. Its compact housing enables it to be installed in a variety of craft, even vessels where space is limited, such as center-console boats.The FM4850 handset shares a common appearance with other Furuno equipment, such as NavNet TZtouch2, NavPilot 711C, and the FI70 Instrument series, offering an integrated appearance to any helm. Its built-in AIS Receiver can be used to overlay AIS targets with networked GPS Plotters or MFD's, such as NavNet TZtouch, NavNet TZtouch2, or GP1871F/GP1971F combo units. Built-In DSC & AIS  An external GPS antenna can be connected to the FM4850, and it can share its own GPS, DSC and AIS information via NMEA0183 or NMEA2000. When connected via NMEA2000 to any NavNet TZtouch2 MFD, DSC calling can be initiated directly from the TZtouch2 MFD by simply tapping on the AIS/DSC target and selecting [DSC Call]. Additionally, when MOB (Man Overboard) is activated on a TZtouch2 MFD, the FM4850 enters a special mode where you can initiate a distress call by simply pushing the rotary knob on the handset. Loud Hailer, Intercom & Listen Back Features The unit can operate as a simplified Loud Hailer with intercom, featuring 8 patterns of alert sounds. Loud Hailer, Fog Horn and Warning Signal features are all available, enhancing onboard safety and communications while navigating in the dark or fog. When connected with the second-station handset, intercom communications are available, allowing communications between the two devices. Additionally, the horn speaker can be used to collect external sounds and transmit them through the built-in speaker with a function called Listen Back. In this way, a person on the deck can easily communicate with the bridge, a particularly useful feature for a variety of fishing vessels and workboats. The Listen Back function can also be an effective tool on sport fishing vessels, allowing the horn speaker to collect the sound from fishing rods and lines when you get a strike. Features: NMEA2000 Certified VHF, AIS Receiver, 30-Watt Loudhailer, GPS*, Remote DSC & Multi-Station Intercom Up to 3-stations w/optional HS4800A full-function remotes (up to 30 meters) Single NMEA2000 connection for backup GPS*/AIS Receiver/Remote DSC  Outputs NMEA0183 Position, AIS and DSC data to legacy equipment IP67 waterproof transceiver, handset & speaker Simple installation thanks to its robust metal & waterproof black box design Initiate DSC calls directly from TZtouch2 MFDs (version 6.21 software) *Built-in GPS Receiver requires optional GPS Antenna, such as the GPA017 This product may not be returned to the original point of purchase. Please contact the manufacturer directly with any issues or concerns.

V20S VHF Radio with GPS Stay safe and in touch with this dependable Class D DSC approved VHF radio featuring an integrated GPS receiver. The versatile V20S is ideal for a variety of sailing yachts, from cruising yachts to club racers, and is designed to match the low-profile style of our glass bridge displays and accessories. The V20S has a Startup Wizard for easier radio set up, improved scanning features, a favorites shortcut for customizing your favorite settings and a My Channels list, enabling users to only scan desired channels. An Easy to Use Radio for Any Vessel See clearly in bright daylight with a high contrast black-on-white display, and inverted white-on-black night mode. A rotary dial makes channel selection easy, while large buttons provide quick access to other key functions. Dedicated Channel 16 keys, found on both the radio and its fist microphone, offer instant access to the emergency channel. An included gimbal bracket enables simple table-top, overhead, or bulkhead installation. Flush-mount installation is also possible, with an easy mount-from-front solution, to match the low-profile style of our glass bridge displays and accessories. Class D DSC Approved DSC, or “Digital Selective Calling”, makes it easier to stay in touch with other boaters and enables you to broadcast your boat’s location during an emergency. If you find yourself in trouble, the V20S’ dedicated “distress” button will initiate a DSC distress call that sends your boat’s position to anyone within VHF range. Used together with a traditional radio distress call, this makes it easier for other boaters with DSC-capable radios to register your situation and come to your aid. An integrated GPS receiver means your position can be sent even if your boat’s other electronics are powered down. Easy Access to All International Channels The V20S is designed for global use and supports all international channels. With tri-channel watch, easily scan between the current channel, emergency channel 16, and another user-configurable priority channel (in the USA, scan between the current channel, emergency channel 16, and calling channel 9). Alternatively, scan through all available channels or just your selected favourites. Emergency channels can be given priority when scanning to reduce the chance of missing distress calls or other urgent safety messages. Features: High visibility LCD with inverted night mode Includes internal GPS Intuitive rotary and keypad controls Four-button fist microphone Class D DSC Approved  NMEA 2000® compatible Dedicated Channel 16 key Tri-channel watch function All international channels Multiple scan modes Easy bracket or flush-mount installation IPX7 Waterproof 2-Year Warranty Conforms to new 2018 EU Standards

UM725 Fixed Mount Marine VHF Radio with GPS - Black Full-Featured VHF Marine Radio with GPS Receiver Built-in. Private Text Messaging — Send messages over Marine Channels to other capable radios. Uniden is the first to offer text messaging using marine VHF radio. You and your crew will enjoy the privacy of texting boat-to-boat, rather than broadcasting over your radio for all the boats in your area to hear. The UM725G marine radio comes packed with the latest features, including IPX8 submersible rating, Integrated GPS Receiver, NOAA Weather Channels, DSC Distress send and receive, NMEA0183 / NMEA2000, and speaker microphone-equipped. Features: All USA, Canadian, and International Marine Channels Full Class D DSC Compliant – Meets ITU-R 493-14, -15, IEC 62238 Integrated GPS Receiver – WAAS, SBAS, QASS for accuracy 1Watt / 25Watt Transmit Power – Transmits at full power to ensure maximum range Largest LCD size in class – 68mm(w) x 38mm(h) Private Text Messaging – Send messages over Marine VHF Channels to other equipped radios NOAA Weather Channels – With Weather Alerts Speaker Microphone Equipped – With UP, DOWN, PTT, 16/9/TRI keys Remote Microphone Capable – Optional Remote Microphone for second station operation NMEA0183 / NMEA2000 Input and Output – Send and receive GPS, DSC information to other devices IPX8 Rated Waterproof – Submersible to 4.9ft. for 30min with no water intrusion

MHS335BT Handheld VHF Radio with GPS & Bluetooth Submersible, rugged, reliable - say hello to the mariner's most faithful companion. The MHS335BT is the perfect companion for even the most perilous seas. Its completely submersible design is equipped to handle the weather and the waves, while remaining your fail-proof lifeline to the information and communication that keeps you safe at sea. Whether facing rough waters or enjoying smooth sailing, the MHS335BT is easily within reach throughout it all. Features: Bluetooth® Wireless – Use Smartphone to setup radio and TEXT messaging capability Largest screen in class Full Class D DSC - Meets ITU-R M.493-13, 14, IEC 62238 Integrated GPS Receiver – WAAS, SBAS, QZSS for accuracy Auto Plot to Distress Call – Using the built-in Compass screen Water Activated MOB Feature – Take the radio overboard and just press the Distress key Water Activated Emergency Strobe Light – Automatically activates when in water Flashlight Feature – Built-in Flashlight 6 Watt Transmit Power – Transmits at full power to insure maximum range Floating Radio – Radio floats and is rated IPX8 (submersible to 4.9 feet for 30 minutes) NOAA Weather Channels – With Weather Alert and S.A.M.E. local location alerts Noise Cancel features – for both received and transmitted audio Waypoint Navigation – Navigate to your stored locations using the compass screen Smartphone app (android and iOS) – use the setup the radios menu options, enter DSC directory information, TEXT message other VHF radios (text enabled radios) for private communications, update radio firmware Included Accessories – AC & DC charging cable, charge cradle, hand strap, belt clip, antenna WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including LEAD which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

UM725 Fixed Mount Marine VHF Radio with GPS - White Full-Featured VHF Marine Radio with GPS Receiver Built-in. Private Text Messaging — Send messages over Marine Channels to other capable radios. Uniden is the first to offer text messaging using marine VHF radio. You and your crew will enjoy the privacy of texting boat-to-boat, rather than broadcasting over your radio for all the boats in your area to hear. The UM725G marine radio comes packed with the latest features, including IPX8 submersible rating, Integrated GPS Receiver, NOAA Weather Channels, DSC Distress send and receive, NMEA0183 / NMEA2000, and speaker microphone-equipped. Features: All USA, Canadian, and International Marine Channels Full Class D DSC Compliant – Meets ITU-R 493-14, -15, IEC 62238 Integrated GPS Receiver – WAAS, SBAS, QASS for accuracy 1Watt / 25Watt Transmit Power – Transmits at full power to ensure maximum range Largest LCD size in class – 68mm(w) x 38mm(h) Private Text Messaging – Send messages over Marine VHF Channels to other equipped radios NOAA Weather Channels – With Weather Alerts Speaker Microphone Equipped – With UP, DOWN, PTT, 16/9/TRI keys Remote Microphone Capable – Optional Remote Microphone for second station operation NMEA0183 / NMEA2000 Input and Output – Send and receive GPS, DSC information to other devices IPX8 Rated Waterproof – Submersible to 4.9ft. for 30min with no water intrusion

Ray53 Compact VHF Radio with GPS Raymarine’s Ray53 radio is small in size but big on features and performance. Ray53 is a full-function VHF marine radio with Class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC) and a built-in GPS receiver. Simply program your boat’s MMSI number into the Ray53 and immediately benefit from the enhanced calling and safety features of DSC. The Ray53 supports both NMEA2000 and legacy NMEA0183 networking which enables it to connect with other onboard electronics. Ray53 also supports the connection of an optional remote speaker (A80542) to provide audio at a second location. Ray53 was designed to comply with the latest international regulations and includes a connection point for an optional GPS/GNSS antenna.  The optional antenna improves the GPS reception when the radio is mounted below deck, in an enclosed pilothouse, or inside a metal enclosure. Ray53 features an attractive industrial design that complements Raymarine’s Axiom family multifunction displays.  The radio includes both a standard trunnion mounting kit as well as surface mounting hardware.   Features: Compact marine VHF with Digital Selective Calling Built-in GPS/GNSS receiver with the optionalexternal antenna connection Surface and trunnion mount kits included Compliments the style and design of Axiom multifunction displays

Ray63 Dual Station VHF Radio with GPS Raymarine’s Ray63 radio comes with oversized controls and a big screen for easy operation offshore.  Ray63 is a full-function VHF marine radio with Class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC) and a built-in GPS receiver.  Simply program your boat’s MMSI number into the Ray63 and immediately benefit from the enhanced calling and safety features of DSC.  The Ray63 supports both NMEA2000 and legacy NMEA0183 networking which enables it to connect with other onboard electronics.  Ray63 also supports the connection of an optional remote speaker (A80542) to provide audio at a second location. Ray63 also supports dual control stations with the addition of the optional RayMic second station kit.  With an oversized LCD and simple controls, the RayMic is a compact all-in-one handset that fits easily on any secondary helm, tower or navigation station. Use RayMic for station-to-station intercom capability too.  Ray63 was designed to comply with the latest international regulations and includes a connection point for an optional GPS/GNSS antenna.  The optional antenna improves the GPS reception when the radio is mounted below deck, in an enclosed pilothouse, or inside a metal enclosure. Ray63 features an attractive industrial design that complements Raymarine’s Axiom family multifunction displays.  The radio includes both a standard trunnion mounting kit as well as surface mounting hardware. Features: Full-sized marine VHF with Digital Selective Calling Optional RayMic second station kit for full remote control Built-in GPS/GNSS receiver with an optional external antenna connection Surface and trunnion mount kits included Compliments the style and design of Axiom multifunction displays

RS90S Black Box VHF Radio with AIS & Hailer This exclusive RS90 VHF function is for safety, teamwork, convenience, and even just for fun. It’s a great feature that allows you to connect your VHF DSC position polling with chartplotter to show the location of up to three boating friends on the chart display. It’s also easy to set up: You need a RS90 fixed mount VHF, the MMSI number of your buddies’ VHF DSC radios and a Simrad GPS chartplotter. Your VHF will regularly poll your buddies’ positions, and the chartplotter will regularly update their locations by MMSI number on your screen. Track-Your-Buddy is a truly great aid in locational awareness of your friends in a group boating excursion. Features: Premium black box VHF Radio Continues the Simrad legacy in VHF radio Flexible options with wired & wireless handsets Enhanced features to support intra and inter vessel communication Receive GPS data from GPS: External SMA connector for GPS500 Antenna (000-13613- 6 Stations, 4 wired & 2 wireless, unmatched in the market Alpha numeric keypad for professional users Advanced radio features including AIS plot, waypoints and navigation Track Your Buddy when connected to a Navico MFD 30W PA/Hailer Horn output with Listen back feature Dedicated horn key for immediate and action, no menu fumbling Scrambler option for private communications Future features include DSC calls to AIS targets from handset and compatible MFD plus advanced intercom facilities Voice record 30 second rewind and listen back Additional Features: All International, CANADA, USA Channels Dual channel AIS receiver ATIS mode for European inland waterways Built-in hailer -- 30 Watts Built-in foghorn with 4 selectable patterns 2pin cable of external horn key to activate horn without handset Handset to built to meet JIS-7 Intercom facility between stations All International, CANADA, USA Channels 10 weather channel with 1050hz alert tone detect (for US) Selectable 25/1-watt Transmit Power DSC Capability Class D Support Private channels (able to vary by dealer at site by PC program) GPS Input for Automatic Time and Position Update NMEA 2000 Interface & NMEA0183 connectivity Local / Distance function Support Private channels (able to vary by dealer at site by PC program) GPS Input for Automatic Time and Position Update Local / Distance function Dual Watch/TRI Watch Function 3Ch functions All Channel Priority Scan Backlight sync between MFD and VHF handset 20 user Programmable names with MMSI. Call Log: 10 distress calls, and 20 individual calls for DSC communications

Link-9 VHF Radio with DSC & AIS Receiver Features: Lowrance Link-9 Replaces the current Link-8 VHF Front mountable design for easy installation Industrial Design to align with style of Lowrance MFDs Seamless integration with a wider B & G system through NMEA 2000 and 0183 Built-in AIS Receiver Large screen with intuitive user interface Unique Selling Points: GPS 4-Ways: With the integrated GPS receiver the Link-9 now has four ways to ensure you have a GPS fix in the event of an emergency. A GPS antenna in the face of the radio means open air installations don’t need another antenna at all An SMA connector on the rear case allows for connection to a GPS-500 antenna NMEA 0183 allows you to get GPS from a chartplotter NMEA 2000 means you don’t need another antenna if you already have one in your network Built in AIS: A dual-channel AIS receiver monitors the position of nearby AIS-equipped vessels, helping you to avoid collisions in crowded harbours and waterways. AIS information can be viewed on the Link-9’s built-in screen, or overlaid on your chart or radar screen through a compatible multifunction display. Remote Mountable Fist Mic: The Link-9’s removable fist mic can be connected to the front or rear of the radio, and optional extension cable allows the radio and mic to be mounted separately. This offers a simple and cost-effective solution for any mounting location, with no cable clutter. For example, the Link-9 can be mounted overhead, with no hanging cables, while the mic is connected to an extension socket on the dash below. Mount From The Front: Link-9 features easily removable top and bottom bezels which reveal mounting holes allowing the same style of mounting from the front that is featured on Lowrance MFDs. Track Buddy: Track buddy is a feature that automatically requests the position of another VHF radio. Simply enter the MMSI of the VHF into your contact list, then start tracking! Track up to 5 buddies Polls your contacts for their Lat/Long position automatically Can be set to 1, 5, 15, 30 or 60 minute intervals Displays the position on a compatible chart plotter Great for keeping track of friends, family or vessels you need to know the position of that don’t have AIS Navigation Mode: Press the NAV button on the Link-9 to turn it into a navigational instrument displaying your Speed and Course. Link-9 also contains a Man Overboard (MOB) function, hold down the NAV/MOB button to drop a waypoint on your current location and the Link-9 will enter MOB mode to show you how far away you are and where you need to steer to get back to the position of the MOB event. The MOB waypoint is also transmitted over NMEA 2000 to the rest of your network.

V60 VHF Radio w/DSC & AIS Receiver Features: B & G V60 Replaces the current V50 mid level VHF, updated to comply with EN 301 025 (v2.2.1) Front mountable design for easy installation Low profile design to align with style of B & G MFD’s Seamless integration with a wider B & G system through NMEA 2000 and 0183 Built in AIS Receiver Large screen with intuitive user interface Optional wireless handsets with inductive charging Unique Selling Points: GPS 4-Ways: With the integrated GPS receiver the V60 now has four ways to ensure you have a GPS fix in the event of an emergency. A GPS antenna in the face of the radio means open air installations don’t need another antenna at all An SMA connector on the rear case allows for connection to a GPS-500 antenna NMEA 0183 allows you to get GPS from a chartplotter NMEA 2000 means you don’t need another antenna if you already have one in your network Built in AIS: A dual-channel AIS receiver monitors the position of nearby AIS-equipped vessels, helping you to avoid collisions in crowded harbours and waterways. AIS information can be viewed on the V60’s built-in screen, or overlaid on your chart or radar screen through a compatible multifunction display. Wireless Handset: Add up to two optional wireless handsets to take your radio anywhere on board. The H60 handset was designed as an intuitive portable companion to the V60. Each handset duplicates your radio’s display and controls, enabling remote access to all key functions. Having multiple stations also allows the RS40 to double as a handy on-board intercom. Remote Mountable Fist Mic: The V60’s removable fist mic can be connected to the front or rear of the radio, and optional extension cable allows the radio and mic to be mounted separately. This offers a simple and cost-effective solution for any mounting location, with no cable clutter. For example, the V60 can be mounted overhead, with no hanging cables, while the mic is connected to an extension socket on the dash below. Mount From The Front: V60 features easily removable top and bottom bezels which reveal mounting holes allowing the same style of mounting from the front that is featured on B & G MFDs. Track Buddy: Track buddy is a feature that automatically requests the position of another VHF radio. Simply enter the MMSI of the VHF into your contact list, then start tracking! Track up to 5 buddies Polls your contacts for their Lat/Long position automatically Can be set to 1, 5, 15, 30 or 60 minute intervals Displays the position on a compatible chart plotter Great for keeping track of friends, family or vessels you need to know the position of that don’t have AIS Navigation Mode: Press the NAV button on the V60 to turn it into a navigational instrument displaying your Speed and Course. V60 also contains a Man Overboard (MOB) function, hold down the NAV/MOB button to drop a waypoint on your current location and the V60 will enter MOB mode to show you how far away you are and where you need to steer to get back to the position of the MOB event. The MOB waypoint is also transmitted over NMEA 2000 to the rest of your network.

Your VHF (Very High Frequency Radio) could be the most important piece of equipment in a life and death situation. Keep it healthy, with your boat's batteries charged up in top ship shape. If your VHF radio is a hand-held, keep extra cell batteries on the boat, and note their shelf life. Continually check connections for any battery.   In addition to calling for help in an emergency, your radio can be used for communicating with other boats, bridge and harbor tenders and locks. Some VHF radios have the added feature of being a weather radio.   If you are new to boating and have never used a VHF radio before, there are a few universal terms and features fpr you to understand.    When first turned on you may hear static, the “squelch”. Turn the knob until the static stops. Channel 16 should become your new best friend. It is the channel that is monitored by the US Coast Guard and Marine Units, Conservation Police and Harbor Masters. If you are on Channel 16 and don't have an emergency, any of the aforementioned entities will have you switch to another channel. Some commercial vessels also monitor Channel 70, and as of February 1, 2005, vessels over 300 tons  are not required to monitor Channel 16,  but are required by international law to monitor Channel 70.   Etiquette     Only use Channel 16 for emergencies. Not only for emergencies on your own boat, but also if you see other boaters, swimmers, or wildlife in an emergency situation.   Don't use Channel 16 for hailing other boats to say hello, to inform dock mates that the beer is getting cold, or idle chit chat. You could be preventing someone else from getting emergency help.    Mayday calls are only for immediate danger to lives or to property.    Always monitor Channel 16 while underway.   Commercial vessels can be hailed on Channel 13 if you are concerned about their intention.   When hailing another vessel listen to Channel 16, and when no one is talking, start with three repetitions of the name of the vessel you are hailing. “Moon dog.” “Moon dog.” Moon dog.” Follow with your own vessel's name and station ID. Wait for a response, and then agree to switch to another channel. Always refer to each other with your vessel's name.   When you are finished with your conversation, Repeat your boat name, followed by, “Out.”  Such as, “Moon Dog Out.”  The term “Over and Out” is no longer used.   Before you set sail, do a briefing with everyone onboard on how to use the radio. This includes children.  The skipper isn't always the one who calls for help. Your life may be in someone else's hands. You want them to know how to use the radio.   On some radios, the dials are difficult to read, and the numbers appear in small type. It is a good idea to keep a magnifying glass, a pair of magnifying reading glasses, and a flashlight near your radio.   When calling in an emergency on your VHF, speak slowly and use the NATO phonetic alphabet for letters. “P as in Papa.” Or, Alfa, Bravo, Charlie, Delta, Echo, etc.   Become familiar with your VHF radio. Read the manual. Try out different settings. Know its features so that no matter what the conditions, you are comfortable calling for help.   The Top Five VHF Recommended Radios *   1. Standard Horizon GX1700B Standard Explorer GPS VHF Marine Radio   Best Features: Can be used as a GPS, a two-way radio, a weather radio, and an emergency radio; lightweight; easy to mount; ready to use right out of the box.   Downside: Several users reported it stopped working after a short period of time.   2. Standard Horizon HX870 Floating 6W Handheld VHF with Internal GPS   Best Features: Handheld, Lightweight, portable   Downside: Radio range was shorter than expected. (Radio Range will depend on the height of your VHF antenna.)   3. Uniden UM380 25 Watt Fixed Mount Marine VHF Radio   Best Features: Compact design attaching to any vessel with ease. SAME weather alert technology.   Downside: Users were looking for a better range with this radio. (Radio Range will depend on the height of your VHF antenna.)   4. COBRA MRF45D Marine Radio   Best Features: Can choose between 1 or 25-watt output for short or long-range communication. This device offers NOAA alert and weather channels.   Downside: Users felt transmission could be more clear.   5. Cobra MRHH350FLT Floating VHF Long Range Marine Radio   Best Features: Three power settings. Floats and waterproof.   Downside: A few reviewers received radios that were damaged when they arrived.   * Source: CW Touch Keyer   Fair winds. Smooth sailing.     To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please contact CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/. _____________________________________________________________________________ Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com   ©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com