This archaic VHF, on which you can't speak at the same time and which you have to hold down a foot pedal to speak, seems to be far less efficient than any of today's cell phones!
In addition, the authorities have set up a toll-free number dedicated to sea rescue: 196. This number puts you directly in touch with the CROSS for assistance in the event of a problem.
Despite this, VHF remains the only real means of safety at sea. Don't you think that the quickest way to get help will be the boat you see in the distance? How can you warn him of your situation by telephone? With a VHF, you call him on 16 and he answers. Similarly, when the rescue helicopter is overhead, how do you communicate with it? By VHF of course, not by telephone.
Not to mention the range of the telephone, which once far from the coast, in the absence of a network, can no longer connect, and even with the 196 emergency number, won't warn anyone. So, yes, you need to keep the 196 number in mind, as it can help, but having a VHF radio on board your boat is a much more effective safety measure.
We recommend that you always carry a waterproof portable VHF with you. Quality models like the Icom IC-M25 Euro have come down sharply in price and are now affordable (around ?200, price 2023).
