VHF radio

The marine radio that reaches the Coast Guard and every boat around you at once.

VHF is the water's party line: line-of-sight range, no dead zones from a fallen cell tower, and, decisively, a distress call goes to everyone in range simultaneously. The nearest help is usually another boater three minutes away, and your phone does not reach them.

Channel 16 is for hailing and distress only; working chatter moves to another channel. Handhelds are cheap, float, and belong aboard any boat that leaves the dock's sight.

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Put the words to work

Vocabulary is easier at the helm.

The free South Carolina boater safety course teaches all of this in twelve chapters with a sixty question practice exam, and when you are ready for the water itself, one form gets you rental quotes from local operators.

Take the Free Safety Course Check Pontoon Availability