VHF & AIS Marine Radio Communications

Stay connected and informed on the water with marine VHF radios, AIS systems, marine antennas and communication accessories from Blue Bottle Marine.

Explore our range of fixed mount VHF radios, handheld marine radios, AIS transponders, AIS receivers and VHF antennas designed for recreational boating, offshore fishing, sailing and commercial marine applications.

We stock marine communication equipment from leading manufacturers including GME, Icom, Cobra Marine, Simrad, Lowrance, Raymarine, Furuno and Shakespeare.

Marine VHF Radios, AIS Systems & Antennas

Reliable marine communication equipment is an important part of boating safety. VHF marine radios provide communication with other vessels, marine rescue services and shore stations, while AIS technology improves situational awareness by displaying information about AIS-equipped vessels in the surrounding area.

At Blue Bottle Marine, our VHF and AIS communication range caters to trailer boats, offshore fishing vessels, sailing yachts, cruisers and commercial marine operators.

Fixed Mount VHF Marine Radios

Fixed mount VHF radios provide marine communication through a permanently installed radio and connected VHF antenna. They are a popular choice for fishing boats, cruisers, sailing vessels and commercial boats requiring a dedicated communication system.

Depending on the model, features may include:

• Digital Selective Calling (DSC) capabilities

• Integrated GPS receivers or external GPS connectivity

• NMEA 2000 connectivity for compatible marine electronics

• Waterproof construction suited to marine environments

• AIS receiver functionality on selected VHF radios

• Remote handset compatibility on supported models

Explore fixed mount marine radios from GME, Icom, Cobra Marine, Simrad, Lowrance, Raymarine and Furuno.

Handheld VHF Marine Radios

Handheld marine VHF radios provide portable communication for recreational boating, fishing, sailing, tender operations and use as a supplementary communication device.

A handheld VHF radio can be particularly useful when moving between vessels or when a fixed radio is not practical.

Our range includes handheld marine radios with model-dependent features such as waterproof construction, floating designs, rechargeable batteries, GPS and DSC functionality.

Browse handheld VHF radios from manufacturers including GME, Icom and Cobra Marine.

AIS Receivers & AIS Transponders

An Automatic Identification System (AIS) helps boat operators identify and monitor nearby AIS-equipped vessels, supporting safer navigation in busy waterways, shipping channels and offshore environments.

AIS equipment can provide information such as vessel identity, position, course and speed when that information is transmitted by another vessel.

The two main AIS equipment types are:

AIS Receivers: Receive AIS transmissions from nearby vessels and display their information through compatible marine electronics or dedicated displays.

AIS Transponders: Transmit your vessel's AIS information while also receiving transmissions from other AIS-equipped vessels. Class B AIS transponders are commonly used on recreational vessels, subject to applicable requirements.

AIS functionality may also be integrated into selected VHF radios and multifunction displays.

Explore AIS solutions compatible with marine electronics from Simrad, Lowrance, Raymarine and Furuno, alongside other marine communication equipment.

Marine VHF Antennas & Accessories

A properly selected and installed marine VHF antenna is essential for effective radio performance. Antenna height, placement, cable quality and installation all influence communication range and reliability.

Blue Bottle Marine stocks Shakespeare marine antennas alongside marine communication accessories for a range of boating applications.

Our marine antenna category is suited to customers looking for VHF antenna solutions for trailer boats, offshore fishing vessels, sailing yachts and larger recreational or commercial vessels.

When selecting a marine VHF antenna, consider antenna length, gain, mounting location, available installation space and compatibility with your radio system.

Marine Radio Brands at Blue Bottle Marine

Find marine communication products from established marine electronics manufacturers.

Choosing the Right VHF Radio or AIS System

Choosing suitable marine communication equipment depends on your vessel, where you operate and the equipment already installed on board.

For smaller trailer boats and recreational fishing vessels, a fixed mount VHF radio with a suitable antenna may form the foundation of the communication system, with a handheld VHF radio providing additional flexibility.

For offshore fishing, cruising and sailing, AIS capability can provide additional awareness of AIS-equipped commercial and recreational vessels.

For boats fitted with multifunction displays, choosing compatible VHF and AIS equipment can help integrate communication and navigation information across the onboard electronics network.

Before purchasing, check radio and antenna compatibility, DSC and GPS requirements, network connections and any applicable Australian marine radio licensing or operating requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Marine VHF & AIS Radios

What is the difference between a VHF radio and AIS?

A marine VHF radio enables voice communication with other vessels and marine shore stations. AIS is a vessel identification and tracking technology that exchanges information such as vessel position, course, speed and identity between suitably equipped vessels. Some marine VHF radios incorporate AIS receiving capabilities.

Do I need an AIS transponder on my boat?

AIS requirements depend on vessel type, size, operating area and applicable regulations. While AIS may not be compulsory for many recreational boats, it can provide additional situational awareness when navigating busy waterways or operating offshore.

What is the difference between an AIS receiver and an AIS transponder?

An AIS receiver receives transmissions from other AIS-equipped vessels but does not transmit your vessel's position. An AIS transponder both receives AIS information and transmits your vessel's AIS data to other compatible systems.

Which marine VHF radio is best for offshore fishing?

A fixed mount marine VHF radio connected to a suitable external antenna is a common choice for offshore fishing boats. Features worth considering include DSC, GPS connectivity, waterproof construction, accessible controls and compatibility with existing marine electronics.

Can I connect a VHF radio to my Simrad, Lowrance, Raymarine or Furuno display?

Many marine VHF radios can connect to compatible multifunction displays using NMEA 2000 or NMEA 0183, depending on the radio and display models. This can support functions such as GPS position sharing and selected DSC or AIS features. Always confirm compatibility before purchasing.

What is the best VHF antenna for a boat?

The most suitable VHF antenna depends on the vessel's size, mounting position, operating environment and installation requirements. Shakespeare offers marine antenna options for a variety of vessel types. Correct mounting, cabling and installation are important for reliable performance.

Do marine VHF radios require a licence in Australia?

Marine VHF radio operators are generally required to hold an appropriate certificate of proficiency, subject to applicable exemptions. Vessels using DSC and AIS equipment may also require an MMSI. Check current Australian Maritime College, ACMA and AMSA guidance for the requirements relevant to your vessel and equipment.