Back to sea in complete safety: check your portable VHF before the season begins
The portable VHF is one of the most widely used pieces of on-board equipment by yachtsmen, both for communicating with other vessels or port services, and for alerting emergency services in the event of an emergency. However, it is often neglected, stowed away out of season in a damp bag or trunk, without a serious check before resuming sailing. When it's time to return to the sea, here are the points to check, and what the regulations require.
A regulated device: CRR or permit, not to be overlooked
First of all, it's important to remember that the use of a portable VHF is not unrestricted. In inland navigation or French territorial waters, it is possible to use it without a Radiotelephone Operator's Restricted Certificate (RRC), provided that the equipment does not allow use on international channels or on the high seas.
However, as soon as the VHF is equipped with the DSC system or used outside French waters, the CRR becomes mandatory. This certificate, issued by the ANFR (Agence nationale des fréquences), is obtained after an examination that validates the minimum skills required to operate a VHF correctly. It is also compulsory to hold an operating license (and to register your equipment).
All yachtsmen sailing beyond 6 miles from a shelter, or wishing to sail abroad, are therefore advised to have an up-to-date CRR, and to ensure that their VHF is registered with the ANFR, with a valid MMSI number if it is fitted with DSC.
Physical inspection: corrosion, connectors, built-in antenna
The first thing to check is the unit's physical condition. A portable VHF that has gone several months without use may show traces of oxidation on the rotary knobs, connectors or antenna (even if integrated). A visual inspection can identify corrosion (greenish marks, hard or jammed buttons) and treat it before it compromises operation.
We recommend cleaning the VHF regularly with a soft, dry cloth, paying particular attention to moving parts, and keeping the unit in a waterproof or protected bag to limit salt spray.
Battery condition: a check to anticipate
Checking the charge level is vital: a portable VHF is often used when all else fails. Make sure the battery is full, and that the charger is working properly. Some models feature a cycle or full charge indicator. A back-up battery is highly recommended, especially for ocean cruising or backpacking.
A charge test must be carried out several hours before departure, and the duration of autonomy must be compatible with the navigation program.
Check seals and accessories
Even if the VHF is IPX7 or IPX8 certified, the condition of seals, accessory plugs and rubber covers should be inspected. A deformed gasket, a poorly closed cover or an oxidized connector can leave the device vulnerable to water. Don't hesitate to replace questionable components, such as jack sealing plugs.
Practical tests: emote and receive
Finally, a real transmission test ensures that the device is properly modulated. This can be carried out with a second boat, or by calling a nearby semaphore or port, using an authorized channel (not 16!). The aim is to validate the range, the clarity of the voice and the correct triggering of the sound signal. If you don't get an answer on several calls, or if the sound seems altered, suspect a weak microphone or reception fault.
