10 Best Boat Vhf Radios 2025 in the United States

The Garmin 0100209800 VHF 215 AIS is a reliable choice for a boat VHF radio, especially if you value range and durability. With a maximum talking range of 36 miles, it ensures clear communication over long distances, which is crucial for safety at sea. The device operates on a voltage of 12 volts (DC) and is water-resistant, making it suitable for marine environments. It includes 10 channels, covering a frequency range from 156.050 MHz to 163.275 MHz, including weather (WX) channels, which is beneficial for receiving real-time weather alerts.

The integration of an anti-glare screen is a practical feature for readability in bright conditions. The product is relatively hefty, weighing 5.3 pounds, and its medium size dimensions (10.2 x 9 x 6.3 inches) might make it less portable compared to more compact models. The Garmin 0100209800 VHF 215 AIS is well-suited for those needing a robust, long-range communication device, but it may fall short in terms of GPS features and compactness.

The Uniden UM385 is a solid choice if you need a reliable fixed mount VHF radio for boating. Its 25-watt power output is strong enough to provide clear communication up to around 40 miles, which is useful for most boating situations. It covers 40 channels, including all U.S., international, and Canadian marine channels, so you’ll have plenty of options for contacting other boats or coast stations. It also includes DSC with a distress button, allowing you to quickly send emergency signals and your position, which is a valuable safety feature.

For weather awareness, it has NOAA weather alerts and S.A.M.E. weather alert functionality, helping you stay informed about storms or hazardous conditions while on the water. The radio meets an IPX4 waterproof rating, meaning it resists splashes and rain, but it’s not fully submersible, so extra care is needed in heavy wet environments.

This model doesn’t have built-in GPS, which some boaters might miss since GPS integration can automatically send your precise location in emergencies. The unit is fairly compact for a fixed mount radio, but at 3.55 pounds and dimensions of roughly 6 x 5 x 2.6 inches, it’s designed to be installed on your boat with a wired mic for easy use from the helm. The rugged handheld mic allows you to transmit without distraction, which is handy. If you want a dependable, feature-rich marine VHF radio with important safety features and solid channel coverage but don’t need GPS built-in, the Uniden UM385 is a strong option.

The Icom M94d VHF Marine Radio stands out in the marine communication category, especially for those who prioritize safety and ease of use. One of its major strengths is the AIS Receiver integrated with Distress Signal Calling (DSC), which enhances safety by providing immediate distress signal capabilities and vessel traffic information. The simplified navigation system with a dimmable back-lit screen ensures clear visibility in various lighting conditions, making it user-friendly.

Furthermore, its ability to float and automatically flash even when powered off is a significant safety feature, ensuring the device is easily retrievable if dropped overboard. The AquaQuake draining function is another practical feature that prevents audio degradation by removing water from the grill. With a 6 W RF Output Power and up to 10 hours of operating time, it offers robust performance and long-lasting battery life, which is crucial during extended trips.

The radio is also waterproof, adding to its durability and reliability in marine environments. However, it has a relatively limited number of channels (4), which might be a drawback for users needing more communication options. Additionally, its size and weight (2.2 pounds) may affect portability for some users, especially those looking for a more compact device. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Icom M94d is highly rated by users, indicating satisfaction with its performance and features. This marine radio is best suited for boaters who need reliable safety features, durability, and ease of use.