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Old 08-13-2019, 12:51 PM   #28
Descant
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Default Vhf

Good points, Phantom. I don't know how prevalent this is now, but marinas used to monitor VHF, sometimes on ch 9 instead of ch 16, so it was mostly for their customers. A handheld will usually get you a contact within a couple of miles. If you're in Center Harbor and need help, you don't really care if somebody in West Alton hears you. When I had a jetski, I always carried a handheld in a water proof carrier. Never needed it, felt good to have it.
Biggest problem with any device is being able to hear over engine/wind noise when you're cruising. I think SeaTow and Tow BoatUS also monitor Ch 16. so there are helpers listening, but they don't participate in the C B style chatter.
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