How to Communicate at Sea with Marine VHF?
Anyone who frequents the sea knows that safety in open waters is no joke and should certainly not be underestimated. When sailing more than six miles from the coast, the first thing to do is to ensure you have a device that allows you to communicate quickly, safely, and directly with the mainland or other navigators in case of an emergency.
This device is the marine VHF, a transceiver that can be either fixed or portable (portable is definitely more convenient) and is mandatory for all vessels that navigate beyond 6 miles from the coast. At Midland, we understand the value of communication during the move. That's why we have created a brief guide that will help you understand how the VHF works and especially which one to buy, useful for those approaching the nautical world.
Ready to set sail?
Marine VHF, How Does It Work?
VHF is a transceiver used in both aeronautical and marine contexts, utilizing very high-frequency bands. In the nautical context, it is mandatory because it is possible to encounter unexpected situations concerning your vessel or to come across other vessels in distress. In these cases, when navigating more than six miles from the coast, the telephone signal is not guaranteed.
The VHF addresses this issue and uses channel 16 to ensure a priority channel for anyone at sea in an emergency situation.
Channel 16 is universal and can be used for communications between vessels or between a vessel and the coast guard. It is essential that the VHF allows immediate access to channel 16, but it is equally important that it supports the dual watch/triple watch function, which allows monitoring of channel 16 and other selectable channels. As with any safety channel, communications must be clear, concise, and precise. It is necessary to avoid occupying the channel with superfluous communications and to respect the rules, such as radio silence at certain times.
Just as truckers have CB language, there is also a specific language for communications with VHF in the nautical field, for example:
MAYDAY is the signal transmitted for immediate emergency intervention. Along with mayday, the name of the ship, position, reason for the emergency, and the number of crew involved should also be communicated;
PAN PAN is a signal that indicates a request for assistance but not an immediate danger;
SECURITE is a signal that is launched to make safety communications (not necessarily in an emergency).
VHF is not only a mandatory tool but you will find that it is also a valuable ally even if you want to approach the sea to practice sports like sailing. Teams participating in regattas are all equipped with VHF, so if you are also thinking of getting into nautical sports, you should know that having a transceiver that allows you to communicate with the rest of the team on land or with other vessels makes a difference.
Which VHF to Choose?
Now all that remains is to choose the ideal tool for your safety at sea. Having a portable radio is definitely more convenient, you can carry it with you everywhere on the vessel and you can send emergency communications without having to return to the control cabin.
After a careful study of navigators' needs, we have created a perfect radio for the most extreme conditions: Midland Arctic.
It is a radio light and compact like a normal walkie-talkie but is effectively a VHF equipped with a button for immediate access to channel 16 (just press it to start communications, easier than that!).
Moreover, Midland Arctic has an IP67 waterproof certification, meaning it can withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. It is sturdy, shock-resistant thanks to its aluminum chassis, and equipped with 57 programmable international channels. It has the dual watch/triple watch function, so it is possible to monitor more channels simultaneously in addition to 16, and it has an automatic power saver, so the battery can last as long as possible.
It is super lightweight, weighing only 230 grams with the battery, so it can be carried anywhere and attached to the belt through the clip, thus freeing up your hands. In addition to this, it also has a programmable VOX function in 10 levels, so it is possible to start communications without pressing any button. This feature is great if, for example, you need to communicate while your hands are busy.
Furthermore, the antenna is removable, and thanks to the standard SMA connector, it is possible to use other types of antennas.
Sailing in the open sea is one of the most beautiful experiences one can have in life, but it is essential to do it with the right equipment so as not to be caught unprepared in front of unforeseen events.
At Midland, we know well what it means to communicate in extreme and emergency situations, and with Midland Arctic, we will always be by your side, wave after wave!
