Mobile Phones and Safe Boating

Do not depend on your mobile phone for emergency calls at sea. 

Although a mobile phone may function in some locations, do not depend on one for an emergency or life-saving call at sea.  Many boating areas have poor or no mobile reception.  A marine radio will enable you to call for help if an emergency strikes.  Your marine radio will also be heard by others who may be closer to you and provide faster assistance.  On board your boat you should always think of your mobile phone as a secondary means of communication.

Marine radios are compulsory on all vessels operating more than 2 nautical miles offshore and are strongly recommended for anyone using a boat inside that limit or in enclosed waters. 

A marine radio provides a means of advising shore stations of your itinerary (Logging On), checking weather conditions and navigation warnings – and making a distress call in case of an emergency.

27 MHz marine radios are relatively cheap and available for general use.

VHF marine radios use a different frequency and are in very wide use within the boating community. A Marine Radio Operator's VHF Certificate of Proficiency (MROVCP) is required for boats equipped with VHF radios and a Marine Radio Operator's Certificate of Proficiency (MROCP) is required for boats equipped with MF/HF radios. Coastal Patrol divisions offer comprehensive courses at moderate cost. See Education. These courses are not difficult and will equip you with a valuable skill.