Stay Connected: The Top 5 VHF Radios for Boats

June 19 2024, by Safe Water Team, 3 min reading time

Equipping your boat with a reliable VHF (Very High Frequency) radio is essential for safe and effective communication on the water. Whether you're navigating coastal waters, cruising along rivers, or venturing into open seas, having a dependable VHF radio onboard can provide peace of mind and enhance your boating experience. In this article, we'll explore the top five VHF radios for boats, highlighting their features, capabilities, and why they stand out in the market.

1. Standard Horizon GX2200 Matrix AIS/GPS VHF Radio

The Standard Horizon GX2200 Matrix AIS/GPS VHF Radio is a feature-packed radio that combines VHF communication with integrated AIS (Automatic Identification System) and GPS functionality. Key features include:

Integrated AIS receiver for displaying vessel traffic information on the radio's screen.
Built-in GPS receiver with waypoint navigation and position tracking capabilities.
ClearVoice noise-canceling technology for improved audio quality.
DSC (Digital Selective Calling) capability with distress calling and position polling features.
Large LCD display with customizable channel labels and backlighting for easy visibility in any lighting conditions.

2. Icom M506 Fixed Mount VHF Radio

The Icom M506 Fixed Mount VHF Radio is known for its rugged construction, advanced features, and reliable performance in marine environments. Key features include:

Active noise canceling and automatic foghorn for enhanced safety and communication.
Integrated NMEA 2000 connectivity for seamless integration with other onboard electronics.
DSC Class D functionality with distress calling, position polling, and individual/group calling capabilities.
AquaQuake draining function to clear water from the speaker grille for improved audio performance.
Optional CommandMic IV remote microphone for convenient operation from multiple locations on the boat.

3. Garmin VHF 210 Marine Radio

The Garmin VHF 210 Marine Radio is a compact and user-friendly VHF radio with essential features for reliable communication on the water. Key features include:

Class D DSC capability with distress calling, position polling, and direct calling features.
NMEA 0183 connectivity for compatibility with a wide range of navigation and communication devices.
Clear, high-contrast LCD display with adjustable backlighting for easy readability in any lighting conditions.
One-touch channel selection and dedicated channel 16/9 buttons for quick access to emergency and hailing frequencies.
Integrated speaker microphone with noise-canceling technology for clear, distortion-free audio transmission.

4. Uniden UM385 Fixed Mount VHF Radio

The Uniden UM385 Fixed Mount VHF Radio offers reliable communication and essential features at an affordable price point. Key features include:

JIS7/IPX7 submersible waterproof rating for protection against water immersion.
DSC capability with distress calling and position polling features for enhanced safety.
Large, backlit LCD display with adjustable contrast for easy visibility day or night.
Triple watch mode for monitoring the current channel, emergency channel 16, and a user-selected channel simultaneously.
Compact, space-saving design with intuitive controls and user-friendly interface.

5. Cobra MR HH600 Floating VHF Radio

The Cobra MR HH600 Floating VHF Radio is a handheld option designed for boaters who require portability and versatility. Key features include:

Floating and waterproof design for reliable operation in marine environments.
Rewind-Say-Again® feature for recording and replaying missed VHF calls.
Bluetooth connectivity for pairing with smartphones and wireless accessories.
Noise-canceling microphone and speaker for clear, distortion-free communication.
Dual output power settings (1W/3W) for conserving battery life and extending range.

Investing in a high-quality VHF radio is essential for ensuring safe and effective communication on your boat. The top five VHF radios highlighted in this article—Standard Horizon GX2200, Icom M506, Garmin VHF 210, Uniden UM385, and Cobra MR HH600—offer a range of features and capabilities to suit different boating needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for integrated AIS and GPS functionality, rugged durability, user-friendly design, or portability, these VHF radios deliver reliable performance and peace of mind on all your boating adventures.