Portable VHF for boats and accessories

Portable marine VHF radios are essential tools for the safety of any vessel. They allow you to communicate effectively with other boats, ports, marinas, and, above all, with rescue services in case of emergency. Modern models, like the ones you find at Nautica Basile, often integrate advanced features such as GPS and Bluetooth for greater versatility and safety.

Essential Features of Portable Marine VHF Radios

A good VHF handheld must have some fundamental characteristics: waterproof rating (often IPX7 or higher), buoyancy in case of falling into the water, and sufficient battery life to cover your trips at sea. The range of a marine VHF radio depends on several factors, including weather conditions and antenna height, but generally ranges between 5 and 10 nautical miles. Don't forget to consider purchasing VHF accessories, such as protective cases, external microphones, or spare batteries, to further enhance your experience.

Choosing the ideal portable vhf radio mainly depends on how you will use it. For occasional use, a basic model may be sufficient. However, if you navigate frequently or in isolated areas, it is advisable to opt for a more advanced model, equipped with integrated GPS for automatic position transmission in case of emergency, and Bluetooth for connection to external devices. At Nautica Basile, you will find a selection of marine VHF radios to meet every need. Remember, safety at sea is paramount.

Useful Tips from Nautica Basile

• Always ensure that the VHF is approved for use and complies with current regulations.


• Regularly check the battery charge status and carry a spare battery or portable charger with you.


• Familiarize yourself with the features of your VHF and practice using it in emergency situations.


• Always keep the phone numbers of maritime rescue services, such as the Coast Guard, close at hand.


• Consider purchasing a marine vhf radio with DSC (Digital Selective Calling) to automatically send your position in case of rescue.

In addition to the portable marine VHF radio, complete your safety equipment with other essential tools, such as a good nautical binocular, a portable depth sounder, and a first aid kit.

What VHF channels should be used in case of emergency?

Channel 16 (156.8 MHz) is the international distress channel and is used for emergency voice communications. Channel 70 is dedicated to digital distress calls (DSC). In case of emergency, transmit your position (if possible via GPS), the type of emergency, and the number of people on board.

What does it mean for a VHF to be floating?

A floating VHF is designed with materials and a structure that allow it to stay afloat if dropped into the water. This feature is crucial in emergency situations, as it allows you to easily recover the radio and continue communicating, even in difficult conditions.

Is it necessary to have a license to use a portable marine VHF radio?

Yes, to use a portable vhf radio, you generally need to have a radio operator's license, issued by the competent authorities. Contact the Harbor Master's Office or the Ministry of Economic Development to find out the specific requirements and how to obtain the license.

What is the difference between a portable marine VHF radio with GPS and one without?

A marine VHF radio with integrated GPS is able to determine your geographical position and transmit it automatically in case of emergency, via the DSC (Digital Selective Calling) system. This feature can make a difference in critical situations, allowing rescuers to quickly locate your position and provide assistance.

What are the useful accessories for a portable marine VHF radio?

In addition to the spare battery, useful accessories include a waterproof case to protect the VHF from splashes and accidental immersion, an external microphone for clearer communications in noisy environments, and a car or boat charger to keep the VHF always charged.

What VHF channels should be used in case of emergency?

Channel 16 (156.8 MHz) is the international distress channel and is used for emergency voice communications. Channel 70 is dedicated to digital distress calls (DSC). In case of emergency, transmit your position (if possible via GPS), the type of emergency, and the number of people on board.

What does it mean for a VHF to be floating?

A floating VHF is designed with materials and a structure that allow it to stay afloat if dropped into the water. This feature is crucial in emergency situations, as it allows you to easily recover the radio and continue communicating, even in difficult conditions.

Is it necessary to have a license to use a portable marine VHF radio?

Yes, to use a portable vhf radio, you generally need to have a radio operator's license, issued by the competent authorities. Contact the Harbor Master's Office or the Ministry of Economic Development to find out the specific requirements and how to obtain the license.

What is the difference between a portable marine VHF radio with GPS and one without?

A marine VHF radio with integrated GPS is able to determine your geographical position and transmit it automatically in case of emergency, via the DSC (Digital Selective Calling) system. This feature can make a difference in critical situations, allowing rescuers to quickly locate your position and provide assistance.

What are the useful accessories for a portable marine VHF radio?

In addition to the spare battery, useful accessories include a waterproof case to protect the VHF from splashes and accidental immersion, an external microphone for clearer communications in noisy environments, and a car or boat charger to keep the VHF always charged.