Two-way radios and radio systems have been used for over a century for emergency and casual communication. Marine and Ham radio are versatile forms of communication as they can be used for both emergency and casual communication. It is unique that both systems are used by hobbyists and safety officials, only separated by designated channels.
Today, we will be comparing the two systems to understand the individual uses, license needs, and who these radios service. Check out this article to learn about the major differences between marine and ham radios.
What is Marine Radio:
Marine Radio is used on boats by recreational boaters and chartered boats. This radio system operates on VHF, 27MHz, and MF/HF. VHF stands for very high frequency; these radio systems operate on 25 watts maximum. This much power creates a 20-80 mile range of connection.
VHF systems have an average of 25 channels for communication. The systems have channels including international and domestic. VHF is considered the average marine radio system for casual boaters. However, 27MHz is also very popular and a bit smaller in range.
The 27MHz is often referred to as 27 Meg and it is great for recreational boaters in protected or semi-protected water. It is advised to stay in monitored waterways if your boat is only equipped with a 27 Meg as it does not have a long range of connections for emergencies.
MF/HF is the most commonly used marine radio system for large boats. MF/HF stands for medium frequency and high frequency. This marine radio is used for long-range communications. It is optimal for communication between ships and coast stations.
It is also used for MSI or Maritime Safety Information and navigational warnings. Lastly, MF/HF is a required system for GMDSS or Global Maritime Distress Safety System. The MF/HF radio is great for ships that sail international trade routes or work offshore like oil rigs.
There are rules marine radio users must follow. For instance, channel 16 is the most important national distress, safety, and calling frequency channel.
Channels 9 or 16 can be used to hail a nearby boat, but switching to an available non-emergency channel is recommended. Overall, every boater needs to monitor channel 16 for distress transmissions.
Why Use Marine Radio on a Boat:
Marine radios are important for ensuring safety while on the water. These radios guarantee immediate connection with emergency response boats. If your vessel is damaged and you need to be towed or there is a risk of sinking, marine radios can be a great tool.
In addition to connection with emergency vessels, you can send “maydays” to any nearby boat. As a result, if there is a civilian boat closer than the emergency responders, they will also respond. Moreover, if you hear a distress signal, you can help emergency workers accordingly.
Response to boat damage is not the only use for marine radios. These radios are also useful for connecting to fellow boaters, hearing water safety warnings, and reliable weather updates. While on the water, conditions change rapidly; therefore, it is always best to be prepared.
What is Ham Radio:
Ham Radio, also known as amateur radio is great for those looking to use radio communication as a hobby or to aid emergency professionals. Ham radios are higher power than marine radios as they operate on VHF, UHF, and AM frequencies.
Although it is possible, VHF is not used often for ham radios. VHF operates best in wide open spaces because the frequency waves can’t intersect obstacles like walls or trees. UHF or ultra-high frequency and AM can transmit through obstacles from tighter wavelengths.
Subsequently, UHF and AM can reach between 10-4,000 miles depending on the setup. Ham radios can operate on a maximum of 1500 watts. Within this power range, these radios are not “channelized”.
This means the radio spectrum is not divided into several narrow channels defined by carrier frequencies. The lack of channelizing causes less interference. Lastly, ham radios can be used on the water; whereas, marine radios cannot be used on land. With all of the benefits of ham radio, some may consider using these setups on the water instead of marine options.
Why Use a Ham Radio:
Amateur radio is useful for many occasions. Those using ham radio can range from radio enthusiasts to remote adventurers. These radio systems are used for regular communication and connection to weather services by people who live in remote locations.
Additionally, these systems can help emergency response workers by receiving tips from local transmissions. Ham radio is handy for those going on outdoor excursions in remote locations.
With regular weather updates from the radios, users know when to seek shelter. Moreover, amateur radios can be a lifeline to emergency rescue when cell phones break, die, or lack service. Travelers like thru-hikers should always carry technology like a ham radio.
Licenses:
A similarity between ham and marine radio is both need licenses. However, all ham radio users need a license for operation; whereas, only commercial or chartered boats need a marine radio license.
Charters are considered any boats carrying 6 or more pay passengers. Commercial boats include oil rigs, fishing vessels, cargo vessels, and any boat on the water for a paid service. The license for these boats to operate marine radios is obtained from the FCC also known as the Federal Communications Commission.
Ham radio users will also need to obtain a license from the FCC for a fee of around $40. This license does require passing a test from the FCC. Once users have this license, they can access increased bandwidth and full use of ham radio systems.
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We hope this article gave you the necessary information to understand the differences between Marine and Ham radios. These systems are very useful in emergencies. If you have any questions about which radio is right for your needs, feel free to reach out to our communications experts.
