VHF, which radio is required on board?

The VHF is part of the safety equipment to have on board your boat. But to which navigation does it apply? And on what type of boat? Make sure you comply with the legislation.

François-Xavier Ricardou Published on August 17, 2022

Since 1 January ^er as of January 1, 2017, the VHF is part of the mandatory safety equipment. This radio makes it possible to easily contact the maritime authorities and in particular to organize rescue operations at sea. It is therefore the first element of the safety chain to have on a boat.

This provision is " applicable to the navigation of pleasure craft at sea with a length of less than or equal to 24 meters. It concerns all pleasure craft, boats and vessels (motor and sailboat) for personal use or training with a hull length of less than or equal to 24 meters. "

Quelle VHF obligatoire ? — Which VHF is mandatory?

Mid-shore and offshore zones

Since 2017, a new navigation zone has been created. It is the "semi-offshore" zone between 6 and 60 miles from a shelter. From now on, all pleasure boats sailing beyond 6 miles ("semi-offshore" and "offshore" zones) must have a fixed VHF on board. In addition, vessels operating in the "offshore" zone must complete this equipment with a waterproof portable VHF and an EPIRB distress beacon.

Navigation within 6 miles of a shelter

In this area, only human-powered vessels (e.g., kayaks) are required to carry a waterproof, buoyant, portable VHF.

Obligation also for rented boats (over 6 m for motorboats and over 8 m for sailboats) which must also have a VHF (portable or fixed).