Crew Radio question

I used the Motorola Talkabout on the Hatt. Worked great, good volume, rugid and easy to use. good belt clip, but can also fit in pocket. Has something like 20 channels, so you can always find one unused. Never had a conversation stepped on. It can take an earpiece if you like, but I found headsets (on a different kind) cumbersome.

P.S. You're right, for several reasons, not to use a VHF.

The Icom M88 has the ability to program private channels. It's what you'll see on the majority of yacht-crew's hips.

The Icoms are great, but about 5 x's the cost ($230+ each; vs $99 for 2 or 3). Not sure I'd want them in the hands of a guest. Outside the U.S. there could be broadcast regualtions about the Motorolas though I suppose. Also, with the big boats the private channel programing could be important.
Btw, both can take a dunking.

I would think with 2 people doing coastal cruising the Motorola probably would be great. The Icom also weighs a great deal more than the Motorola. One place the Icom's surprised us originally as novices was the range.

Yes, the VOX delay on the FRS units (ours are Motorola) is indeed an issue, as is simplex working.

Cell phones on speaker can work, depending on your location relative to an appropriate cell tower.

Eartec advertises duplex wireless headsets, and duplex is a good feature.

Some of our owners are using SENA Bluetooth systems with good results.

-Chris

http://eartec.com