Need help/opinions

E

EJ3

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Oct 15, 2007
Messages
171
I have a 15' CC with a 60hp Merc OB. It has a V in the front, and a small V in the back but almost flat (I don't know the proper name of the design).

Don't worry I am getting to the electronics part!

I live on the west coast of FL and boat around the Tampa Bay area. Most of the intercoastal areas I frequent is about a mile wide. We have a few islands that are 3 miles from shore that I visit from time to time. Once more comfortable/confident with my boat I would like to go a mile or two past the islands. Is that a bad idea? I am not a brave person on the water and certainly don't push my luck as I want to aviod a bad situation as much as possible!

My other question is about radios. I do not have one now and don't know much about the types of radios out there. Until I have a radio I do not travel out past the islands I mentioned. I have noise makers, flares and life vests, but feel I need a radio too. What is everyone's advice on type. I am on a bit of a budget but more importantly want to get the right equipment.
 
Silvertip

Silvertip

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 22, 2003
Messages
28,771
Re: Need help/opinions

In your area at least a hand held VHF marine radio is a good addition on a budget. They can be had for $100 and up. Those transmit on either 1 or 5 Watts which would be ok for very short distances (line of sight of course). Otherwise a permanent mount that transmits at 25 watts coupled with a good antenna would be best (with a hand held for backup) for your extended trips. Even a cell phone is better than nothing. A 15 foot boat is not very big should the weather close in on you so be smart about this.
 
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