Buying guide · 8 min read · 9 August 2026
Best Marine VHF Radios for UK Boats
Best Marine VHF Radios for UK Boats
A VHF radio is the single most important piece of safety equipment on a UK boat. Mobile phones lose signal and cannot broadcast a Mayday to every vessel nearby; VHF can. This guide covers what actually matters when choosing one, and some well-regarded sets at different budgets.
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What to look for
Fixed or handheld?
A fixed set with a masthead or cabin-top aerial gives far greater range, typically 20 nautical miles or more, because range depends mostly on aerial height. A handheld gives you 3 to 5 miles but goes in a pocket or grab bag. Most boats over about 5m benefit from a fixed set plus a handheld as backup.
DSC and your MMSI
Digital Selective Calling sends a distress alert with your identity and, if connected to GPS, your position at the press of a button. Any fixed set you buy should be DSC-capable, and you should register for a free MMSI number through Ofcom. A DSC set without a registered MMSI is far less useful in an emergency.
Waterproof rating
Look for IPX7 as a minimum on a handheld, which means it survives immersion in a metre of water for 30 minutes. Some float, which is worth having if you drop it over the side. IPX8 is better again.
Licences
In the UK you need a Ship Radio Licence for the vessel (free from Ofcom) and the operator needs a Short Range Certificate. This applies to handhelds used afloat as well as fixed sets.
ATIS for inland waterways
If you plan to use European inland waterways you will need a set with ATIS capability, which is a separate mode from standard marine VHF. Not all sets support it.
Options worth considering
Listed alphabetically by suitability rather than ranked. We research specifications and reputation; we have not tested these ourselves.
1.Standard Horizon HX210
A dependable floating handheldA compact floating handheld that is widely used as a backup set or as the primary radio on smaller craft.
- ✓Floats and is submersible rated
- ✓Compact enough for a lifejacket pocket or grab bag
- ✓Simple controls that work in gloves
2.Icom IC-M25 Euro
Light, floating, easy to live withA very light floating handheld from a manufacturer with a long track record in marine radio.
- ✓Floats, with a flash alert if dropped in the water
- ✓USB charging is convenient aboard
- ✓Slim body suits smaller hands
3.Cobra MR HH350 FLT
Budget floating handheldA lower-cost floating handheld for occasional or day-boat use where a fixed set is not fitted.
- ✓Floats and is brightly coloured for recovery
- ✓Selectable power output to save battery
- ✓Reasonable value as a backup
4.Standard Horizon GX1400 Eclipse
A solid entry-level fixed DSC setA straightforward fixed-mount DSC radio suited to smaller cruisers and workboats.
- ✓DSC capable, connect to GPS for position in distress calls
- ✓Clear display that stays readable in sunlight
- ✓Simple menu system
5.Icom IC-M330GE
Compact fixed set with built-in GPSA notably compact fixed DSC set with GPS built in, which saves wiring to a separate source.
- ✓Integrated GPS simplifies installation
- ✓Small footprint suits crowded helm positions
- ✓Well regarded for build quality
In short
Whichever you choose, register your MMSI with Ofcom, connect a GPS feed to any DSC set, and make sure everyone aboard knows how to send a distress call. A radio nobody can operate is not safety equipment.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licence for a marine VHF radio in the UK?+
Yes. The vessel needs a Ship Radio Licence, which is free from Ofcom, and the operator needs a Short Range Certificate (SRC). This applies to handheld sets used afloat as well as fixed installations.
Is a handheld VHF enough, or do I need a fixed set?+
For small day boats and dinghies a handheld is often sufficient. Range depends mainly on aerial height, so a handheld gives roughly 3 to 5 miles against 20 or more for a fixed set with a masthead aerial. Most boats venturing beyond sheltered water are better served by a fixed set with a handheld as backup.
What is DSC and do I need it?+
Digital Selective Calling sends an automated distress alert including your vessel identity and, when connected to GPS, your position. Any fixed set you buy should have it, and you should register a free MMSI number so the alert identifies you.
Can I use a marine VHF on inland waterways?+
On European inland waterways you generally need a set with ATIS capability, which is separate from standard marine VHF mode. Check the specification before buying if inland cruising is planned.
Buying or selling a boat?
Marine equipment is free to list on The Boat Shop, and there is never any commission.