26 Apr

What is a MMSI number and why do I need it?

Ann HoffnerVoyaging Tips, Voyaging Tips Newsletter, , , , ,
by Ann Hoffner A wellfound sailboat making its way across the South Pacific strikes a whale; within minutes water enters the bilge. It’s impossible to find the source and those on board decide to seek assistance. The crewmember assigned to communications hurries to the nav station, pushes the red distress button on the VHF radio. Why did they do that? It’s only a short range radio, how can it help from the middle of the ocean? Because the red button means its equipped with digital selective calling (DSC), and pushing that button automatically sent out a message and will keep…
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VHF antenna mounts
13 Mar

VHF antenna mounts

Bill MorrisMarine Electronics Newsletter, ,
by Bill Morris While we are perusing the various types and brands of radios for our boat’s nav station, we should give ample attention not only to what type of VHF antenna we intend to install, but the mounting system for that antenna as well. Holding the antenna securely to the deck, mast or aft pulpit plays a critical role in getting our signal out efficiently and safely, especially in an emergency. To be sure, if you are crossing oceans, you will undoubtedly carry, at the very least, an antenna for your marine SSB or ham radio station, but we’ll…
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06 Feb

Icom Showcases M510BB VHF Black Box at Miami International Boat Show 2023

Ocean NavigatorIndustry & Company News, ,
KIRKLAND, Wash. (January 2023) – The world’s largest boat and yacht show is back! The Discover Boating™ Miami International Boat Show will be held February 15 through 19, 2023. Show events and attractions will be located on land at the Miami Beach Convention Center (MBCC) and Pride Park, and on the water at Sea Isle Marina, One Herald Plaza, Museum Park Marina, and IGY Yacht Haven Grande at Island Gardens. Icom is excited to showcase the M510BB*, our newest VHF black box radio. Find us and our entire lineup of marine radios on display at booths MB3314 and MB3316. Icom’s new M510BB…
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