Keep in touch 

Have a suitable means of communication on board.

There are different types of equipment that enable you to keep in touch. What you have will be dependent on the type of boat and the distance you are intending to travel.

VHF

Handheld VHF: The carriage of handheld VHF is in most cases practical, and a handheld will suffice if only a limited communications range is required; typically 5 miles offshore around the coast.

Fixed VHF: set can allow communications to be made over a range of up to 20 – 40 miles depending on the installation and conditions. VHF also allows search and rescue (SAR) authorities to locate you using Radio Direction Finding (RDF) equipment.

More information on VHF

Mobile phones

Although in many instances a mobile phone may be sufficient it ultimately is not designed for the marine environment and coverage may be non-existent just when you most need it. Another means of communication is therefore essential.

Know your limits >