VHF marine radios save lives

A VHF radio is your rescue network at sea. Your call can be heard by many people at the same time and the distress channel - channel 16 - is monitored 24/7.
  • Are you VHF Ready?

    Why a VHF radio should be one of your two waterproof ways to call for help at sea, and four simple steps to make sure you’re ready for an emergency.
  • Buying a VHF radio

    A marine VHF radio costs less than a modern smartphone and has extra benefits. But some models are better than others. Here are some important things to keep in mind when buying a VHF radio.
  • Know your VHF radio’s limits

    VHF radio has limited coverage in inland waterways and some other areas – find out where a beacon is best, and check which communications are recommended for your boating activity.
  • VHF radio courses and resources

    You need to know how to use your VHF properly. Sign up for a course, get a call sign for your boat, and check out our resources.

Download VHF Fact Sheet

Everything you need to know about VHF radio[PDF: 47kB, 5 pages]

Related information:
Get a quick visual guide for your vessel.

VHF channels

This sticker lists the major VHF channels.

[PDF: 110KB, 1 page]

Download
Get a quick guide for MAYDAY calling.

Radio distress calling

This sticker outlines the radio procedure for distress calls.

[PDF: 30KB, 1 page]

Download