Which should I buy, a fixed VHF or a handheld VHF radio?

When considering this question, the primary factor to consider is range. Will a handheld VHF get you the distance you may need? If you are staying within a mile or two of the coast, a handheld radio should be sufficient (always perform a radio check to ensure you are in good range and your equipment is functioning correctly). Should you lose power or sail and start to drift, can you guarantee you won't drift out of handheld range? Even with the slightest chance of this, we always recommend fitting a fixed radio and carrying a handheld for backup in case you lose your DC supply.

04/07/2025