Lifeline marine Radio

[PGIJon]

Just saw what is touted to be a very capable "Marine Rescue radio. At first this appears to be a better option to many of the Icom, WM etc clip on VHF radios... Any thoughts?

http://www.nautiluslifeline.com/nautilus_lifeline

Thanks
Jon

 

[JohnShannon]

A 1.85W DSC radio. Waterproof when the cap is closed i.e not in use. How waterproof is it if you are say swimming around as your boat sails into the distance? Might be OK what does it cost $299 well OK I guess but, for $220 or so you get Standard Horizon 6W HX870 DSC radio, waterproof all the time. So I lost my beloved HX850 and need a new handheld, won't be the "Lifeline"

 

[capta]

Seems like a lot of money for a single function tool you might only use once (one would hope, anyway).
A waterproof handheld w/GPS would be a lot more useful and versatile.

 

[JohnShannon]

HX870 is at the SBO store
http://shop.sailboatowners.com/prod.php?7289/HX870+Floating+Class+D+DSC+Handheld+VHF+with+GPS

 

[PGIJon]

Thanks Guys... Looks like the the HX870 will be what we get!

 

[Benny17441]

Agree with Capta, this handheld radio unit has been designed as a single function tool. Don't know what the use for its capability to remain waterproof at 425 ft would be. I'm also skeptical about its "demonstrated range" to transmit up to 34 miles as the VHF signal is a sight signal and a radio at water level could not be seen by a receiver at deck level of another small boat at a range of 34 miles with just 1.8 watts of power. The HX870 looks like an excellent choice by a recognized marine radio manufacturer.

 

[Don S/V ILLusion]

I'm also skeptical about its "demonstrated range" to transmit up to 34 miles as the VHF signal is a sight signal...

Truth in advertising doesn't seem like this company's strong point

 

[JohnShannon]

not to pile on, but it isn't clear that the thing floats, so you may need that 425ft rating

 

[marke14]

I watched a few of their videos including a lengthy infomercial type thing they did. I was impressed by the thought that went into it.

It does indeed float and one of the uses the inventor speaks to is for scuba divers who want to precisely mark a spot with GPS. You get to your shipwreck or whatever you are diving, carry enough line to allow the thing to float up to the surface where it acquires the satellite signals and logs the position.

I thought it was cool, anyway. I don't disagree that a floating waterproof handheld wouldn't be more practical for a yachtsman or pretty much non-diver. I think it's designed to go diving with. I have to say I've heard about divers being left behind and that sounds awful, so this could be something to mitigate that.

 

[PGIJon]

I really appreciate everyone's input, I went with the HX870. As a diver I thought it was interesting that it could
mark a spot while you were underwater.....
and as far as truth in advertising... forget it....
Jo as far as needing a 425' rating most of our sailing here on Charlotte Harbor is in about 8 feet of water... (Note: the depth is the depth below the keel... so there is plenty of room!