VHF Radio

A VHF Radio, or very high frequency radio, is the standard short-range voice communication system used by vessels and coast stations. It operates on marine channels around 156–174 MHz and is primarily line-of-sight, so range depends on antenna height, power and obstructions; fixed sets commonly reach farther than handhelds.

For boaters, VHF is critical for Mayday, Pan-Pan and Sécurité calls, harbour control, bridge openings, traffic coordination and local weather broadcasts. DSC-enabled sets linked to GPS can transmit a distress alert with position, supporting Search And Rescue and wider Marine Radio procedures.

PredictWind forecasts, routing and Offshore App downloads help you anticipate conditions, but they do not replace the legal and practical value of a working VHF. Use weather data to plan, then keep a VHF watch as conditions change, particularly near shipping lanes, harbour entrances and remote anchorages where Satellite Connectivity complements onboard communications.