Recommendation on VHF, Portable Marine Radio

[4x15mph]

I think I should have a VHF radio on the boat so I am leaning towards a portable version.

Do you have any recommendations on radio(s) that I should consider. I need it to be dependable and have a decent range.

 

[upperdeck]

You won't get decent range with a portable...

 

[Bruce]

I plan to add a Standard Horizon EXPLORER GPS (GX1700). I chose this radio because it has built in GPS to send automated distress calls (DSC).

It can be purchased for as little as $182 and currently has a $30 mail in rebate. This is the best price that I have found Standard Horizon Explorer Gx1700w Gps Fixed Mount Vhf - White

 

[Andy S]

I plan to add a Standard Horizon EXPLORER GPS (GX1700). I chose this radio because it has built in GPS to send automated distress calls (DSC).

It can be purchased for as little as $182 and currently has a $30 mail in rebate. This is the best price that I have found Standard Horizon Explorer Gx1700w Gps Fixed Mount Vhf - White

When I first went to Bimini I purchased a handheld Standard Horizon HX750S floating VHF radio. I agree handhelds don't have the best range but going with a group you should always be insight of someone. Also, on Bimini the communication method of choice is a VHF radio so a handheld is perfect. So far, on the couple of times I used the radio, I have been very impressed with it. Mine is easy to use, sound quality is very good, and it holds a charge for a long time.

If I boated in open water on a regular basis I would definitely have a mounted VHF unit attached to a tall antenna.

 

[davel501]

This is what I have: http://www.westmarine.com/handheld-vhf-radios/west-marine--vhf160-floating-6w-handheld-vhf-radio--14078562

Got it last spring when West Marine ran that long 1 item per day sale. It works well enough for rafting, docking, close in activities where you would want a handheld anyway. It does not do long range well.

 

[Speedling]

I boat on Lake Michigan which is pretty big. Big enough that you can lose sight of land. I have a wired unit with a 6' antenna that I currently just stick in the seat cushion when we go out. I plan on mounting it on the tower whenever I buy one, but I gotta pay off the boat first. The height of the antenna matters quite a bit. Most of the time we just use it to hear stuff when we come up to the locks when we are around Chicago, but it's also interesting to hear Coast Guard and such around the lake as well.
We do 75% of our boating on a small lake nearby though, so we don't break it out then.

 

[Murf'n'surf]

I have always used iCom portable and wired units. The portables have tremendous battery life -- I have a handheld on my desk that hasn't been charged in over a year! I don't use it often but thats great just sitting.

How far offshore will you go? That is really the question you need to answer and do some research on the transmit range of a handheld unit.

 

[Gym]

I got an Icom hand held from West Marine a couple of years ago. Has a 5 & 1 watt switch and floats. Not sure what the range is but it has been a good rig

 

[0627Devildog]

If you do decide to go portable. . . . . . save yourself the trouble and get a floating one. Not that I am speaking from direct, personal experience or anything. . . . . . = )

 

[Topper232]

I have both. Portable Standard Horizon radio that floats, as previously suggested. Range is not great. I would hardly ever get a reply when asking for a pre-launch radio check. That prompted me to get a fix-mount VHF. I bought the Standard Horizon GX1700 with the built in GPS. I installed a 3' whip and have been very happy with it.

 

[Captbob]

I also have the Horizon GX 1700 with built in GPS. It replaced my old one that was only GPS ready. It is an awesome radio with many features.

 

[whaler7626]

So we've talked about where to mount antennas, but where have you guys mounted fixed VHF units? I was thinking maybe near the throttles? Thanks!!

 

[RumDiet]

Mounted mine under the dash - antenna on the port side on the tower.
I favor Std. Horizon radios because of the very generous repair policy - even if out of warranty they will fix it for $70. flat fee. Last year I had to return the fixed unit in the boat - sent it in on Monday, had it back in time for the following weekend. With Icom they ask you for your receipt and it its out of warranty they don't want to know you.

 

[Norboo]

http://www.boatingmag.com/gear/electronics/boatinglab-tests-handheld-vhf-radios

 

[4x15mph]

http://www.boatingmag.com/gear/electronics/boatinglab-tests-handheld-vhf-radios

This article is perfect and great feedback by all. I think I will see where I boat this summer and decide on whether I need to install a fixed unit.

 

[Topper232]

Mounted mine under the dash - antenna on the port side on the tower.
I favor Std. Horizon radios because of the very generous repair policy - even if out of warranty they will fix it for $70. flat fee. Last year I had to return the fixed unit in the boat - sent it in on Monday, had it back in time for the following weekend. With Icom they ask you for your receipt and it its out of warranty they don't want to know you. View attachment 2663

Same location for me. Mounted the mic just in front of the throttles

 

[BoaterGuy]

Does anyone have a pic of an antenna mounted on a tower? Preferably a 242 tower?

 

[ToddW850]

Glad this topic came up. I've been contemplateing about getting a portable VHF or mounted one.

 

[upperdeck]

Mine is mounted on the tower, but I don't have easy pictures available. I'll work on it though!

 

[BoaterGuy]

Thanks dude!