10 Best Boat Vhf Radios 2025 in the United States

The Cobra MR HH600WFLTBTGPS Handheld Floating VHF Radio is a versatile tool for boating enthusiasts who need reliable communication on the water. With a 6-watt power output, it supports both short and long-range communication across US, Canada, and international channels, making it suitable for various boating environments. The built-in GPS receiver is a standout feature, displaying your coordinates directly on the screen and enabling easy location sharing during distress calls, enhancing safety.

Bluetooth integration is a thoughtful feature, allowing you to make calls directly from the radio, keeping your phone dry. This radio also incorporates a noise-canceling microphone, which aids in maintaining clear communication even in noisy conditions. Additionally, the rewind-say-again feature is useful for replaying the last 20 seconds of transmissions, ensuring you don't miss vital information.

Its waterproof and floatable design is essential for marine usage, and the 'Burp' feature helps to clear water from the speaker grill for better audio performance. The radio provides access to NOAA weather alerts, which is crucial for staying informed about weather conditions. One of the drawbacks could be its size and portability. Despite being handheld, its dimensions and weight might feel bulky for some users. While the VHF radio might be on the pricier side compared to basic models, its features justify the investment for serious boating users who prioritize safety and convenience.

The STANDARD HORIZON HX890BK is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable VHF marine radio. It offers a strong 6-watt power output, which helps with clear communication over distances up to 15 miles in ideal conditions. With 66 channels available, it covers all the necessary VHF marine frequencies, including weather channels and emergency channels, which is important for safety on the water.

One of its standout features is built-in GPS integration, allowing for location sharing and easier navigation, which is a great plus for boating. The radio is fully waterproof, meeting the needs of those who spend time in wet environments or on rough seas. It runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which tends to last well, so having a backup power option for longer trips is advisable. The size and weight (about 2 pounds and compact dimensions) make it portable and easy to handle, though it’s a bit bulkier than some lightweight models. It also includes an FM receiver, which can be useful for entertainment or local updates.

While it doesn’t include advanced features like digital selective calling (DSC), it covers all the basics very effectively. This radio serves as a dependable tool for casual boaters or those who want solid communication and GPS features without getting into complex setups.