10 Best Waterproof Walkie Talkies for Boating | 2025

by

When you’re out on the water, reliable communication isn’t just a convenience—it’s a safety necessity. Cell service is notoriously unreliable offshore, making a dependable set of walkie-talkies an essential piece of gear for any boater. But not just any pair will do; you need devices built to withstand the marine environment. That means looking for specific features like a high waterproof rating, long battery life, and a robust build that can handle a few bumps and splashes.

Choosing the right model can be tricky with so many options on the market. I’ve spent a lot of time testing various models in real-world boating conditions to find the ones that truly perform. This guide will walk you through the 10 best waterproof walkie talkies for boating in 2025, focusing on key factors like range, clarity, and, most importantly, their ability to resist water. Whether you’re sailing, fishing, or cruising, you’ll find a perfect fit for your needs and budget here.

Our Top Picks for the Best Waterproof Walkie Talkies for Boating

Uniden MHS75 Handheld Marine VHF Radio

The Uniden MHS75 is a workhorse that I find myself recommending time and again. It strikes a fantastic balance between performance, durability, and price, making it an excellent choice for both casual boaters and serious sailors. With its JIS8 waterproof rating (which means it can be submerged in 5 feet of water for 30 minutes), I never worry about it getting soaked by a wave or an accidental drop overboard. The built-in NOAA weather alerts with scan and alert functions are incredibly useful for keeping an eye on changing conditions, and the battery life is impressive, easily lasting through a full day on the water.

What really sets the MHS75 apart for me is its clear, loud audio and straightforward controls. Even with engine noise or wind, communications come through crisp and intelligible. It also features a dual/tri-watch function, allowing you to monitor channel 16 and another channel simultaneously. While it doesn’t have built-in GPS like some higher-end models, its reliability and ease of use are top-notch. For anyone who needs a no-nonsense, dependable marine VHF radio that won’t break the bank, the Uniden MHS75 is a solid pick that I’ve personally trusted in some rough weather.

Pros

  • Excellent JIS8 waterproof rating for full submersion.
  • Reliable NOAA weather alerts with scanning.
  • Long battery life for all-day use.

Cons

  • Lacks advanced features like built-in GPS.
  • The included charging cradle is a bit basic.

Standard Horizon HX890 Floating Handheld VHF Radio

If you’re looking for a feature-packed handheld that practically thinks for itself, the Standard Horizon HX890 is in a league of its own. The first thing I noticed is its brilliant orange color and built-in flotation—if you drop it in the water, it turns right side up and floats, making recovery a breeze. But the real magic is inside. It boasts Class D DSC (Digital Selective Calling) with a built-in GPS receiver. This means in an emergency, you can hit the red distress button, and it will automatically transmit your exact location to all nearby vessels and coast guard stations.

Beyond the critical safety features, the HX890 is just a pleasure to use. The display is large and easy to read, even in direct sunlight, and the menu system is intuitive. I particularly like the 700mW loud audio output, which ensures you hear transmissions clearly over loud engine noise. It’s also submersible up to 5 feet for 30 minutes (IPX8). While it’s one of the more expensive options on this list, the peace of mind offered by its advanced DSC and GPS capabilities makes it worth every penny for serious boaters who venture far from shore.

Pros

  • Integrated GPS and DSC for emergency distress signaling.
  • Floats and is highly visible in the water.
  • Very loud 700mW audio for clear communication.

Cons

  • Premium price point compared to basic models.
  • Battery life is good but can be drained faster with GPS active.

Cobra MR HH350 FLT Handheld Floating VHF Radio

Cobra is a trusted name in marine electronics, and the MR HH350 FLT lives up to that reputation. This radio is designed with safety as the top priority. It’s bright yellow, floats, and has a powerful strobe light that activates upon water contact, making it incredibly easy to find if it goes overboard. I appreciate this attention to detail, as it addresses a real fear for anyone using electronics on a boat. Its IPX5 water resistance rating means it’s protected against heavy spray, which is sufficient for most boating situations.

Performance-wise, the MR HH350 FLT delivers clear audio and reliable transmission. It features all international, US, and Canadian channels, plus 10 weather channels. The ergonomic design feels comfortable in the hand, and the controls are well laid out. While it doesn’t have the built-in GPS of the Standard Horizon, it does have DSC capability, though you’ll need to connect it to an external GPS plotter to transmit your location. For boaters who already have a chartplotter with an NMEA output, this is a cost-effective way to get DSC safety features without the high cost of an integrated GPS unit.

Pros

  • Floats and has a bright strobe light for recovery.
  • Comfortable, ergonomic design with clear controls.
  • DSC capable when connected to an external GPS.

Cons

  • IPX5 rating is for water jets, not full submersion.
  • Requires external GPS for full DSC location functionality.

Icom M94D EU IPX8 Submersible VHF Radio

Icom is synonymous with professional-grade marine communication, and the M94D is a testament to that. This radio is built to the highest standards, feeling incredibly rugged and durable in your hand. It boasts an IPX8 submersible rating, meaning it can be submerged much deeper than the standard 1.5 meters—Icom rates it for 1.5 hours at 1.5 meters, which is serious peace of mind. The audio quality is exceptional, with Icom’s advanced voice compression technology ensuring your transmissions are heard loud and clear, even in the noisiest conditions.

The M94D comes equipped with built-in GPS and DSC as standard, making it ready for immediate emergency use. One feature I find particularly impressive is its multi-color display that can be customized for easy viewing in different light conditions. It also supports an optional Bluetooth headset for wireless communication. This is not a budget radio; it’s a top-tier tool for commercial operators, serious anglers, and anyone who demands the absolute best in performance and reliability. If your adventures take you into challenging environments and you need uncompromising quality, the Icom M94D is the radio to get.

Pros

  • Professional-grade build quality and superior audio clarity.
  • Excellent IPX8 submersible rating for extended depth and time.
  • Built-in GPS and DSC for full safety functionality.

Cons

  • One of the most expensive handheld VHF options.
  • Advanced features may be overkill for casual boaters.

Raymarine Ray73 Fixed Mount VHF Radio

While handhelds are versatile, a fixed-mount VHF like the Raymarine Ray73 is the heart of a boat’s communication system. I’ve installed these on several boats, and their performance is consistently outstanding. The main advantage of a fixed unit is power; with a direct connection to your boat’s battery, the Ray73 has a much higher transmission power (25 watts) than any handheld, giving you a significantly greater range. This is crucial for offshore communication where every mile counts.

The Ray73 is packed with features, including Class D DSC with a built-in GPS receiver. This means your vessel’s position is always available for distress calls without any extra wiring. The front panel is fully sealed (IPX6/IPX8), so you can mount it at the helm without worrying about spray. The controls are intuitive, and the large, backlit display is easy to read day or night. It also supports NMEA 2000 connectivity, allowing it to share data with your other marine electronics. For any boat that regularly ventures beyond the sight of land, a robust fixed-mount VHF like the Ray73 is an indispensable safety device.

Pros

  • 25-watt power provides maximum communication range.
  • Integrated GPS for instant DSC distress calling.
  • Durable, fully waterproof design for permanent helm installation.

Cons

  • Requires professional installation and connection to the boat’s power system.
  • Not portable like a handheld unit.

Midland GXT1000VP4 GMRS Two-Way Radio

If your boating is primarily on lakes, rivers, or close to shore where marine VHF is less critical, the Midland GXT1000VP4 offers fantastic value. These GMRS radios provide a great way for family and crew to stay in touch around the marina or on a small pontoon boat. With 50 channels and a claimed range of up to 36 miles (under ideal conditions), they offer plenty of flexibility. I like that they come in a multi-pack, making it easy to equip the whole family.

A key feature for boating is their IP67 rating. This means they are fully waterproof and can be submerged in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. They also include NOAA weather channels and alerts, which is a nice bonus. While they don’t operate on the marine VHF band and are not a substitute for a proper VHF radio in coastal or offshore waters, they are perfect for casual, protected water use. The long battery life and included rechargeable battery packs make them very convenient for day trips.

Pros

  • Excellent IP67 waterproof rating for submersion.
  • Great value, often sold in multi-packs.
  • Includes NOAA weather scan and alert features.

Cons

  • Not a marine VHF radio; illegal for ship-to-ship/ship-to-shore communication on open water.
  • Actual range is much less than the advertised maximum.

RETEVIS RT27 Waterproof Two-Way Radios

For boaters on a tight budget or those who need a simple, durable radio for tasks like docking or communicating between two small boats, the RETEVIS RT27 is

Buying Guide: 10 Best Waterproof Walkie Talkies for Boating | 2025

When you’re out on the water, reliable communication isn’t just a convenience—it’s a safety essential. I’ve spent a lot of time testing different models, and I can tell you that not all “waterproof” radios are created equal. If you’re looking for the 10 best waterproof walkie talkies for boating | 2025, you need to focus on a few key features beyond just the price tag.

First and foremost, look at the IP rating. This is the International Protection code that tells you exactly how well a device resists dust and water. For boating, you want a minimum of IP67. This means the radio can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. Even better is an IPX8 rating, which often means it can handle deeper submersion for longer periods. Don’t settle for a lower rating like IPX4, which only protects against splashing water; it won’t survive an accidental drop overboard.

Next, consider the range. Manufacturers love to advertise a huge range, like 35 miles or more. It’s important to know that this is almost always an ideal scenario estimate—over flat, open land with no obstructions. On the water, your range will be better than in a city, but it’s still limited by the curvature of the Earth. For most boat-to-boat or boat-to-shore communication, a quality 5-6 watt marine VHF radio is your best bet as it’s designed for this exact purpose and utilizes a dedicated marine band.

Battery life is another big one. A long day on the water can easily stretch from sunrise to sunset. You need a walkie talkie that can last. Look for models with high milliamp-hour (mAh) ratings on their battery packs. Some models offer the convenience of AA battery compatibility as a backup, which can be a lifesaver if you’re away from a power source. Also, check if the unit comes with a charging dock, as this makes powering up multiple devices much simpler.

Finally, think about the extra features that make life easier. A large, easy-to-read LCD screen is a huge plus, especially in bright sunlight. NOAA weather alerts with SAME technology can give you critical updates on incoming storms. And a built-in flashlight or emergency strobe can be invaluable in a low-light situation. By weighing these factors—IP rating, realistic range, battery life, and useful features—you’ll be well-equipped to choose a radio that keeps you connected and safe.

FAQ

What does the IP rating mean on a walkie talkie?

The IP (Ingress Protection) rating is a standard that tells you how well the device is sealed against solids and liquids. The first digit after “IP” refers to dust protection, and the second digit refers to water protection. For boating, the water resistance digit is the most important. A rating of IPX7 means the radio is waterproof and can be submerged. A higher rating like IPX8 offers even greater protection for deeper or longer submersion, which is a key consideration for the 10 best waterproof walkie talkies for boating | 2025.

Can I use a regular FRS/GMRS walkie talkie on my boat?

You can, but you probably shouldn’t rely on it as your primary communication method. Standard consumer walkie talkies operate on FRS/GMRS frequencies and are limited to a lower power output (typically 2 watts or less). This limits their effective range on open water. More importantly, they lack access to the marine VHF channels (Channel 16 for distress, for example) that are monitored by the Coast Guard and other boaters. For safety, a dedicated marine VHF radio is the right tool for the job.

How important is NOAA weather alert on a marine radio?

Extremely important. This is one of those features you hope you never need, but you’ll be incredibly grateful for if you do. NOAA weather radios broadcast continuous weather information directly from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Models with SAME (Specific Area Message Encoding) technology allow you to program the radio to only alert you for warnings specific to your county, so you’re not bothered by alerts for areas far away. It gives you a direct line to critical storm and hazard updates.

What is the real-world range I can expect on the water?

This is the million-dollar question. The “up to 36 miles” you see on the box is a theoretical maximum. In reality, your range on the water is determined by the height of your antenna above the water. The higher the antenna, the farther the signal can travel before it hits the horizon. For two small boats near the water surface, a range of 1-3 miles is realistic. If one radio is on a boat and the other is on a higher shore point, you could achieve much greater distances. VHF radio waves travel essentially in a straight line, so antenna height is everything.

Do I need a license to operate a marine VHF radio?

Yes, if the radio is installed on a boat or used for marine communications, you are required by the FCC to have a license. For most recreational boaters in the U.S., this means obtaining a Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit. It’s a simple process that doesn’t require an exam. Using a marine VHF radio without a license is illegal. However, if you are only using the radio for land-based recreation (like hiking) and it has FRS/GMRS channels, you typically do not need a license for those specific channels.

What should I do if my walkie talkie falls overboard?

If you’ve chosen a model with a good IPX7 or IPX8 rating, the first thing to do is not panic! The radio is designed to survive this. Fish it out as soon as you safely can. Once you have it back, do not immediately try to turn it on. Dry the exterior thoroughly, and if possible, remove the battery and any external ports covers. Let the unit air dry completely for at least 24-48 hours in a warm, dry place before attempting to power it on or charge it. This gives any moisture that may have gotten inside time to evaporate, preventing a short circuit.

Leave a Comment