Marine Radio suggestions?

[otgmail]

[*Matt*]

I can tell you there is only even IF a radio does withstand the 1meter under water requirement, it wont survive an impact at 30 knots. Always use a waterproof case. You can use the radio through it.

The Icom M32-Li was the only radio that catamaran sailor hobiegary tank tested to be waterproof.

Matt

[23knots]

[cherrywood182]

I have a west marine VHF150 (approx $130) in a west marine waterproof pouch ($5). I used to keep it in a small carrying case on a belt around my waist which was a lot of fiddling around, but now I just keep it across my chest under my wetsuit, and I don't even know it is there.

[GGSkater]

For sailing in the Bay, does anyone use a cellphone? I have a fairly cheap phone so if it got wet and wrecked I wouldn't be too upset. For sailing 3rd Ave., I could call Foster City Fire Department which has a boat. But what about Crissy? I suppose the marine radio allows the sailor to talk with the CG in real time compared to calling a landline telephone.

Anybody use a cellphone? Thoughts? (I'm thinking of buying a radio but am hesitating due to cost.)

[jwajack]

with a radio you not only can reach the coast guard, but any vessel within range that is monitoring channel 16 or 9, which should be most decent sized vessels. with a cell phone, if you're in a dead zone, or no one answers the one line you're calling (as opposed to a broadcast to everyone within range) you're SOL. Plus, when the rescue has to come out and get you via ship or helicopter, you'll be able to communicate real time with them when you have a radio. I saw that dakine is making a pouch that fits over the waistbelt (the stretchy-velcro wide strap) of their harnesses, which might be a good way to carry. I had a sail maker/canvas maker put a radio harness on the back of my w/s harness, but that was a few harnesses ago . . . . The small camel back/back pack sounds like a good idea, and a gps could be quite helpful when you're out in the great wide ocean.

[girsang]

[LoveSplittingLanes]

Plan A) had a cell phone in waterpoof pouch for few years. No coverage BUT still able to call 911 (IN A DEAD ZONE) consecutive to a broken mast alone out there = connected to the cops, then coast guards prior to rescue. Post assessment of the event... what if the cell phone hadn't work/ got drenched? Moved on to plan B...

Plan B) have now a Uniden Voyager. Ultra compact, battery life is incredible, getting corroded (a bit) after being in a Dakine "reef walker" bag for about 3 years (never rinsed either)... Post assessment of this purchase... What if I drop the radio since this thing doesn't float?

Both Plans are sensible options. I aimed at the water proof option

[cherrywood182]

I called the CG for someone who had broken down off treasure island. It was remarkably difficult to operate a radio while in the water in big swell and high wind. I was worried Iwould drop the radio, so I made sure it was tied to me at all times. It was a bit of a pain getting it out of my pack which was around my waist and at my side. I can't imagine how you would get it out of a backpack or harness without losing it or the backpack. Best option is to have it tied around your neck. I have found the most convenient thing is to have it tied around my neck and sitting in a waterproof bag across my chest under my wetsuit. It is easy to get to and I won't drop it this way as it is tied to me at all times.

[juk1]

Hi

I have been sailing with a marine radio for a couple of year and used it once to call in a guy with a broken fin at 3rd. CG was amazing. I have a Westmarine 250 in a pouch. I got a replacement after a cheaper one (150) started leaking.
I put the radio inside the mast sleeve near the mast foot, then a couple wraps of duck tape, all set. Easy access, just make sure you stay with your gear...
I used to sail with a Gramin Forerunner 305 GPS watch, but they don't withstand the windsurfing conditions: two destroyed because of water damage.

JUK