Bells and foghorns

Bells, Horns, and Fog Whistles: Navigate Safely with Nautica Basile

Safety at sea is a top priority, especially in conditions of poor visibility. In dense fog or reduced visibility, an efficient sound signaling device becomes essential to signal your presence to other vessels. Whether you prefer a traditional chrome-plated brass pear-shaped horn, a solemn nautical bell, or a practical portable whistle, Nautica Basile offers you the essential tools to navigate safely.

The nautical bells available in this section are made of high-quality brass, often chrome-plated for greater resistance to corrosion caused by the marine environment. We offer various sizes, with mouth diameters ranging from 100 to 175 mm, to suit the needs of every boat. Remember that, to be considered safety equipment on board, the bells must comply with current regulations.

The pear-shaped horns, available in both straight and curved versions, represent a practical and manageable alternative, particularly suitable for inflatable boats and small boats. Their ease of use makes them reliable in any situation. The fog whistles, made of durable plastic, are the most economical and compact solution, ideal as emergency equipment to always keep at hand.

Choosing the most suitable sound signaling device depends on the size of your boat and local regulations. Before purchasing, always verify that the chosen model is approved and complies with the provisions of law. Nautica Basile offers you only certified and high-quality products.

The Advice of the Officina Basile

• Annual Check: Before each boating season, carefully check the correct functioning of the horn or whistle. Make sure the sound is clear and powerful.


• Materials: Chrome-plated brass offers excellent resistance to corrosion, but stainless steel is the ideal choice for those who frequently navigate in extreme marine conditions.


• Regulations: Verify that the bell or horn is suitable for the size of your boat. Regulations vary based on the length of the hull and the navigation area.


• Emergency Kit: A mouth-blown nautical whistle is always useful as a backup in case of failure of the main signaling devices. Keep it always at hand if needed.


• Maintenance: Regularly clean your sound signaling devices with specific products to prevent corrosion and ensure an always optimal sound.

Complete your safety equipment with our self-inflating life jackets and lifebuoys, for even safer navigation.

What is the difference between a pear-shaped horn and an electric horn?

The pear-shaped horn is a manual device that works by blowing, offering reliability even in the absence of electrical power. The electric horn, on the other hand, is powered by the boat's battery and produces a more powerful and constant sound, ideal for larger boats.

Is a fog bell mandatory for all boats?

The regulations require a fog bell for boats over 12 meters in length. For smaller boats, another efficient sound signaling device, such as an approved horn or whistle, is sufficient.

How do you keep a brass bell always shiny?

To preserve the shine of a brass bell, it is advisable to clean it regularly with a soft cloth and a specific product for cleaning brass. Avoid using abrasive detergents that could scratch the surface and compromise its appearance.

What is the minimum sound range required for an approved nautical horn?

The minimum sound range required for an approved nautical horn varies based on the size of the boat. International regulations establish specific levels of sound intensity (measured in decibels) that must be respected to ensure that the acoustic signal is audible at a sufficient distance in conditions of poor visibility.

Where can I find the specific regulations on the use of sound signaling devices at sea?

The specific regulations on the use of sound signaling devices at sea are contained in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and in the national laws that implement it. It is advisable to consult the official publications of the maritime authorities of your country to know the current provisions.

What is the difference between a pear-shaped horn and an electric horn?

The pear-shaped horn is a manual device that works by blowing, offering reliability even in the absence of electrical power. The electric horn, on the other hand, is powered by the boat's battery and produces a more powerful and constant sound, ideal for larger boats.

Is a fog bell mandatory for all boats?

The regulations require a fog bell for boats over 12 meters in length. For smaller boats, another efficient sound signaling device, such as an approved horn or whistle, is sufficient.

How do you keep a brass bell always shiny?

To preserve the shine of a brass bell, it is advisable to clean it regularly with a soft cloth and a specific product for cleaning brass. Avoid using abrasive detergents that could scratch the surface and compromise its appearance.

What is the minimum sound range required for an approved nautical horn?

The minimum sound range required for an approved nautical horn varies based on the size of the boat. International regulations establish specific levels of sound intensity (measured in decibels) that must be respected to ensure that the acoustic signal is audible at a sufficient distance in conditions of poor visibility.

Where can I find the specific regulations on the use of sound signaling devices at sea?

The specific regulations on the use of sound signaling devices at sea are contained in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and in the national laws that implement it. It is advisable to consult the official publications of the maritime authorities of your country to know the current provisions.