10 Best Marine Vhf Radios 2025 in the United States

The Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio is a versatile and robust choice for marine communication. One of its standout features is the 6-watt power output, which allows for customizable communication ranges, making it suitable for both short and long-distance use. The radio supports USA, Canada, and international channels, providing broad coverage for various regions. However, it does not seem to support Digital Selective Calling (DSC), which is a significant safety feature in marine radios.

The Garmin 0100209800 VHF 215 AIS radio is designed for marine enthusiasts who require reliable communication on the water. One of its notable strengths is the impressive talking range of up to 36 miles, making it suitable for both coastal and offshore use. The inclusion of 10 channels allows users to easily switch between communications, which is a plus for busy maritime environments. The radio operates on VHF frequencies between 156.050 MHz to 163.275 MHz, which includes important weather channels, enhancing safety during navigation.

The Retevis RA27 is a solid choice for boaters looking for a fixed-mount marine VHF radio with good safety and communication features. It offers a powerful 13.8-volt output and covers all international, US, and Canadian marine channels (88 in total), making it versatile for most water areas. The standout safety feature is the DSC (Digital Selective Calling) distress alarm, which can automatically send your location to nearby vessels or coastguards in emergencies, adding peace of mind on the water. Built-in GPS lets you manually enter or share your coordinates, and it can connect with other GPS devices, enhancing navigation and safety. It also features NOAA weather alerts that keep you updated on severe weather threats, which is very useful for boaters who need to stay informed quickly.