Marine Two Way Radios - Explained

In the complex operational environment of maritime navigation, communication stands as a critical pillar that ensures safety, efficiency, and effective management of shipboard activities. Among the tools at the disposal of today’s maritime professionals, marine two-way radios such as Very High Frequency (VHF) and Ultra High Frequency (UHF) radios, provide indispensable communication capabilities that span both external and internal needs. This detailed exploration delves into the functionalities and strategic applications of these two radio types aboard ships, particularly focusing on their roles in superyachts and cruise ships.

1. VHF Marine Radios - Ship To Ship

TLDR? Instead, see our presentation: Marine Radio Explained

VHF two-way radios are primarily utilised for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communications.

Range & Clarity

VHF radios are used for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communication due to their ability to cover larger distances with clear sound quality, essential for the vast openness of the sea where long-range communication is often critical.

Channel Utilisation

The two way radios you see at the helm of a ship are used for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communications. These use a standard set of channelised VHF “marine” frequencies that are virtually the same everywhere in the world; meaning any ship can communicate with any other ship.

Remember: Whist in range, the coastguard and other ships can hear everything you say on your VHF radio!

MMSI

Only relevant to VHF, a SRC (short range certificate) which is a sort of licence with MMSI number (unique ship identifier) can be ontained. You then program your MMSI-compatible VHF two way radio with your MMSI number. This will then broadcast the MMSI (to identify the vessel) when using VHF marine radios.

Regulatory and Safety Considerations

The use of two-way radios, both VHF and UHF, on maritime vessels is not only a matter of operational efficiency but also of regulatory compliance. Vessels are required to carry radios that meet the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) standards, and crew members must be trained in their proper use, especially in emergency procedures.

Enhancing Maritime Communication

The integration of advanced technologies such as Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) and GPS with marine two-way radios augments the capabilities of maritime communication systems, allowing for enhanced situational awareness and safety. VHF radios with integrated AIS can display other vessels' positions in proximity, aiding in navigation and collision avoidance. Similarly, the combination of GPS and DSC enables more precise location tracking in distress signals, speeding up the response time significantly.

2. UHF Marine Radios - Onboard

TLDR? Instead, see our presentation: Marine Radio Explained

While VHF radios handle external communications effectively, UHF two-way radios shine within the confines of a ship. UHF radios are particularly suited for onboard communications among the crew.

UHF does not interfere with VHF. Other ships and the coastguard do not need to hear your onboard communications; and neither should they!

Object Penetration

UHF marine two way radios have a shorter wavelength which allows them to penetrate ship structures (metal walls, bulkheads, and multiple decks typical in large vessels like cruise ships and superyachts). This capability makes UHF marine two way radios ideal for internal onboard communications across different sections of any size ship.

UHF Repeater

To combat the potential for signal obstruction by the complex superstructures of large vessels and to ensure clear communication across all areas, UHF marine two way radio systems often incorporate centrally located signal-boosting repeaters.

Repeaters are strategically placed to optimise signal transmission and reception, providing consistent and reliable communication coverage throughout the vessel. This setup is essential in maintaining operational coordination among the crew.

Application in Daily Operations

On a superyacht or cruise ship, UHF radios facilitate a broad range of daily activities:

• Crew Coordination: Efficient deployment of tasks and management of human resources aboard is facilitated by instant communication.
• Emergency Protocols: In emergencies, rapid dissemination of information and coordination of response efforts are achieved effortlessly.
• Security: Enhances the security protocol by allowing discrete and instant communication among security personnel.
• Maintenance Operations: Routine checks and troubleshooting are reported and addressed promptly.

Essential: UHF and VHF Marine Two Way Radios

The strategic implementation of VHF and UHF two-way radios aboard ships such as superyachts and cruise ships is pivotal in navigating the complex demands of maritime operations. By facilitating robust ship-to-ship, ship-to-shore, and internal communications, these radio systems not only comply with safety regulations but significantly enhance operational efficiency and crew coordination.

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A spokesman for Radiotronics (UK) said: "It's a confusing business, there being two different types of two way radios onboard a vessel. Here at Radiotronics we try and make it simple to understand the difference. That's why we've made our downloadable presentation on Marine two way radio."

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To find out more, contact Radiotronics (UK) today:

• By telephone at 0345 0 955 950 option 1
• By e-mail [email protected]

Want to know more? Read: Marine Radio Explained (UK) by Radiotronics