Hello all,
Ive just started building a boat and am wondering what communications devices i need in the boat. I want to install them before i get to far as i may need to run the wiring below deck. Is their laws in what i do and do not need? Any suggestions on good brands of marine radios?

Hi there,

If I were you I would definatly get a VHF Marine radio which allows you to be able to use the emergency channels in the case of you needing assitance by marine resuce authorities.
Im not sure if its a law but there's a course you can do which teaches you the proper use of the radio and how to call for assistance etc im pretty sure it gives you a callsign also.

As for brands GME are a pretty good reliable radio, maybe something like the GME GX600.

Regards Shane

Your best bet is to contact a local boat shop to get a rundown on the local laws in your area.

When I did my Skippers Ticket in Perth a couple of years back they tought us how to use a Marine Radio and talked about logging on and off the station when you go out in the boat.

yea i havnt got my skipper ticket yet, i guess i will find out all about it when i do that. Will definatley install a VHF marine radio for now and maybe just run some extra cabling for later if need be. If anyone can find some definitive writing on what your boat must have that would be gold. Will do some googling now.