The Icom IC-M37E is a waterproof and floating portable VHF that meets the regulations put in place since 2017 that require all boats sailing more than 60 M from a shelter (offshore area) to have on board (in addition to the fixed VHF) a waterproof portable VHF. This obligation was put in place so that in the event of abandoning the vessel and boarding the raft, one can take the portable VHF with them.
Being waterproof IP57 (1 m depth for 30 min), and floating, the IC-M37E will be a good safety equipment to meet this regulation. The Japanese brand Icom has always made quality waterproof products, believing that a portable VHF should be able to withstand the worst treatment in the marine environment. When falling into the water, a flashing light is triggered and the screen of the VHF flashes, which makes it possible to locate it very quickly.
In spite of the big power of emission of 6 W (to offer a better range), Icom worked on the autonomy that works more than 12 h with its battery Li-ion of 2350 mAh. To facilitate the recharging, the power base is connected with a USB plug. This VHF can be charged as easily as a smartphone. For better audio quality, the power of the speaker has been increased to 700 mW with even a "booster" function and "Aquaquake" to clean the water that can disrupt the messages.
In terms of accessories, the products in the catalog are adaptable. Thus we can connect the VHF to an external microphone (HM-23). Weighing just 293 g, the portable VHF Icom IC-M37E is offered at a retail price of 215.07 euros TTC (price 2021).
