Staying connected on the water is not just a matter of convenience; it’s a critical component of safety and coordination. Whether you’re navigating a busy marina, coordinating with a fishing partner, or ensuring your crew is prepared for a sudden squall, reliable communication is paramount. Standard electronics are vulnerable to the marine environment, making waterproof walkie-talkies an essential piece of gear for any boater.
This roundup focuses on the best waterproof two-way radios designed to withstand the harsh conditions at sea. From floating models that won’t sink to the bottom to robust units with NOAA weather alerts, we’ve compiled a list of top performers to keep your lines of communication clear, no matter what the water throws at you.
The Best Waterproof Walkie Talkies for Your Boat
- Gaswei G2pro+ IP67 Waterproof Floating Heavy Duty Walkie Talkies
- pxton Waterproof walkie talkies Long Range with Headphones and Charger Dock
- Motorola Solutions T605_H2O Talkabout Two Way Radios Waterproof
- TIDRADIO TD-M11 Walkie Talkies Waterproof IP67 Long Range FRS
- Retevis RT48 Waterproof Walkie Talkies, Heavy Duty Rugged 2 Way Radio
- Uniden Atlantis 155 Handheld Two-Way VHF Marine Radio
- Cobra ACXT645 Waterproof Walkie Talkies – Rechargeable, 22 Channels
- Midland MXT115VP3-15 Watt GMRS MicroMobile Two-Way Radio
- Kenwood KMC-21 Shoulder Mounted Walkie Talkie Two Way Radio Speaker
- Motorola T600 H2O Two-Way Radio
Gaswei G2pro+ IP67 Waterproof Floating Heavy Duty Walkie Talkies
For boaters who prioritize both durability and advanced features, the Gaswei G2pro+ is a formidable choice. Its IP67 rating means it is fully protected against dust and can be submerged in water, while its floating design ensures a dropped radio remains retrievable. The rugged, shatterproof casing is built to handle the knocks and splashes of life on the water.
Functionality is where this model truly excels. The dual PTT (Push-To-Talk) design and 2CH Dual Watch mode allow for monitoring two channels simultaneously, which is ideal for coordinating with multiple parties. Additional features like VOX for hands-free operation, an FM radio, SOS alert, and whisper mode make it a versatile and reliable communication tool for any maritime adventure.
pxton Waterproof walkie talkies Long Range with Headphones and Charger Dock
The pxton walkie talkie set is an excellent value, offering a complete kit with four radios, headphones, and a convenient charging dock. As a GMRS radio, it has the potential for a longer range, especially when used with a repeater station, providing a significant advantage for boaters covering larger areas. Its waterproof and dustproof construction ensures it can handle the marine environment.
This model provides great flexibility with multiple charging options, including the dock, USB-C, or a car charger, so you’re never without power. It comes ready to use out of the box and includes essential features like NOAA weather alerts, 260 privacy codes, and VOX. The inclusion of headphones makes it perfect for use in noisy conditions where clear audio is critical.
Motorola Solutions T605_H2O Talkabout Two Way Radios Waterproof
Motorola is a trusted name in communications, and the T605_H2O lives up to that reputation with its thoughtful design for water use. It boasts an IP67 waterproof rating and, crucially, is engineered to float face-up, making recovery simple if it goes overboard. A unique water-activated flashlight helps you locate it in the dark.
This radio is designed for emergency preparedness, offering 22 FRS channels and a 35-mile range. The bright orange and black color scheme provides high visibility against the water. Its reliable performance and focus on retrievability and safety make it a top contender for boaters who want peace of mind from a well-known brand.
TIDRADIO TD-M11 Walkie Talkies Waterproof IP67 Long Range FRS
The TIDRADIO TD-M11 stands out for tech-savvy boaters who appreciate customization. It features an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, making it robust enough for marine use. What truly sets it apart is its flexible programming options, allowing you to configure the radios via Bluetooth using a smartphone app or a PC for precise control over settings.
This four-pack includes everything you need to get started, including earpieces, batteries, and chargers. With features like VOX for hands-free communication, NOAA weather scan, and a frequency copy function, these radios offer professional-grade flexibility. They are an excellent choice for those who need more than just a standard out-of-the-box solution.
Retevis RT48 Waterproof Walkie Talkies, Heavy Duty Rugged 2 Way Radio
Built for demanding professional environments, the Retevis RT48 is a heavy-duty radio that translates perfectly to the tough conditions on a boat. It meets IP67 standards, meaning it is completely dustproof and can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. The housing is made from tough ABS material with a durable rubber antenna designed to withstand drops and impacts.
This six-pack is ideal for larger crews or charter operations. It provides reliable communication within a marine vessel and offers useful features like VOX and an SOS alarm. The long-lasting 1200mAh battery ensures you have power for extended trips, making it a workhorse radio for serious boaters.
Uniden Atlantis 155 Handheld Two-Way VHF Marine Radio
The Uniden Atlantis 155 is a dedicated VHF marine radio, which is the gold standard for maritime communication. It offers direct access to all USA, International, and Canadian marine channels, allowing you to communicate with other boats, marinas, and the Coast Guard. Its IPX8 submersible rating and floating design make it exceptionally safe for the marine environment.
This radio features a large, easy-to-read LCD screen with a dual-color backlight (white for day, red for night) to preserve your night vision. With NOAA weather alerts and a 10-hour battery life, the Atlantis 155 is a purpose-built tool that prioritizes safety and clear, reliable communication on the water above all else.
Cobra ACXT645 Waterproof Walkie Talkies – Rechargeable, 22 Channels
Cobra’s ACXT645 model is a popular and reliable choice for general outdoor use, including boating. It features an IPX4 splashproof rating, which protects it from water spray from any direction, making it suitable for use in rain or heavy spray. The strong shell and drop-proof design add to its overall durability.
These radios offer 22 channels and 121 privacy codes to help keep your conversations clear of interference. The inclusion of NOAA weather channels keeps you informed of changing conditions. With a long-range capability and straightforward operation, the Cobra ACXT645 is a solid, user-friendly option for casual boaters.
Midland MXT115VP3-15 Watt GMRS MicroMobile Two-Way Radio
For boaters requiring powerful, fixed-mount communication, the Midland MicroMobile is an excellent solution. This 15-watt GMRS radio offers significantly more power than handheld units, translating to a much greater communication range. It is designed for permanent installation on your boat, with a dustproof design and a noise-canceling microphone.
The MicroMobile can access 8 repeater channels to further extend its reach, and it includes 142 privacy codes. Its compact size saves space, while features like channel scan and a universal lip mount antenna make it a professional-grade communication hub for your vessel, ideal for larger boats or those who frequently travel in flotillas.
Kenwood KMC-21 Shoulder Mounted Walkie Talkie Two Way Radio Speaker
The Kenwood KMC-21 is not a radio itself, but a crucial accessory that enhances the functionality of compatible Kenwood two-way radios. This shoulder-mounted speaker microphone allows for hands-free operation, which is incredibly useful when you need to keep your hands on the wheel or are busy with tasks on deck.
This heavy-duty microphone features a volume control, remote controls for the radio, and a swivel belt clip for easy attachment. By providing a speaker and microphone away from the main radio unit, it improves audio clarity and convenience, making it a valuable add-on for boaters who already use compatible Kenwood models.
Motorola T600 H2O Two-Way Radio
The Motorola T600 H2O is a feature-rich, waterproof radio designed for outdoor adventures. It shares many of the excellent qualities of its sibling model, including an IP67 rating that guarantees protection from dust and water immersion. A key safety feature is its ability to float, ensuring it doesn’t become lost at sea.
This radio provides 22 channels and 121 privacy codes, along with access to NOAA weather channels with alerts to keep you informed. It also includes an integrated flashlight and an emergency alert button. The combination of durability, safety features, and reliable performance makes the T600 H2O a strong all-around choice for marine communication.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Waterproof Walkie Talkies for Boating
When I’m picking out gear for my boat, I know that “waterproof” can mean a lot of different things. For something as critical as communication, you can’t just grab any pair of walkie talkies and hope for the best. You need a set that’s built for the marine environment. The first and most important thing I look for is the official IP rating. This is the Ingress Protection code that tells you exactly how well a device is sealed against solids and liquids. For boating, you want a rating of at least IPX7. This means the unit can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. That’s a good safety net for a splash over the side or an unexpected rain squall. If you’re a serious sailor or kayaker who might be in the water, look for an IPX8 rating, which guarantees protection for deeper, longer submersion.
Next, I think about range. Manufacturers love to advertise a huge range, like 35 miles or more. It’s important to remember that this is the absolute ideal theoretical range over flat, open water with no obstacles. In the real world, on a busy harbor or around islands, your actual range will be much shorter. Don’t get hung up on the biggest number. For most recreational boaters communicating between two vessels or from the bow to the helm, a solid 2-5 mile real-world range is often plenty. A more powerful radio with higher wattage (like 5-6 watts) will generally give you a better signal than a less powerful one.
Battery life is another big one for me. A long day on the water can easily turn into 8-10 hours. The last thing I want is for my radio to die halfway through the day. I check if the model uses a rechargeable battery pack and how long it’s rated to last on a single charge. Some models offer the flexibility of also using standard AA batteries in a pinch, which is a fantastic backup feature. I also look at the included charging method. A desktop charger that can power two units at once is super convenient compared to having to plug in two separate cables.
Finally, I consider the extra features that make life easier. All VHF marine radios have access to NOAA weather channels, which is a non-negotiable safety feature for me. I also look for a large, easy-to-read display that I can see in bright sunlight, and large, tactile buttons that are easy to press even with wet hands or while wearing gloves. A floating design can be a lifesaver if you drop one overboard. For the best waterproof walkie talkies for boating, you need a tool that is durable, reliable, and easy to use when conditions get challenging.
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 dust and water. The first number after “IP” refers to solid particle protection, and the second number refers to liquid ingress. For boating, we mostly care about the liquid number. A rating of IPX7 means the radio is protected against the effects of temporary immersion in water (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes). IPX8 is even better, meaning it can handle continuous immersion under conditions specified by the manufacturer. Always check for this rating to ensure your gear is truly protected.
Can I use regular FRS/GMRS walkie talkies on a boat?
You can, but with some major caveats. Standard consumer walkie talkies are great for talking between two boats that are close together. However, for serious marine use, a dedicated VHF marine radio is a much better tool. VHF radios are required to have certain safety features, can access dedicated marine channels and NOAA weather alerts, and are generally more powerful and robust. For casual use on a calm lake, a consumer model might be fine, but for any coastal or offshore boating, a proper marine VHF is the right choice for safety and performance.
How important is the floating feature?
In my opinion, it’s a very handy feature, but not always a deal-breaker. If you’re on a small boat like a dinghy, kayak, or paddleboard, where the chances of dropping the radio directly into the water are high, then a floating model is a fantastic investment. It can save you from watching an expensive piece of equipment sink to the bottom. On a larger vessel with higher sides, the risk might be lower, but it’s still a great peace-of-mind feature to have. When comparing the best waterproof walkie talkies for boating, a floating body is a significant advantage.
What is the difference between a waterproof and a water-resistant radio?
This is a crucial distinction. “Water-resistant” means the radio can handle some light splashing or rain. It is not designed to be submerged. “Waterproof,” especially when backed by an IPX7 or IPX8 rating, means the radio’s housing is sealed and can survive being dunked or temporarily immersed in water. For a boating environment where you’re exposed to spray, waves, and rain, you absolutely need a waterproof radio, not just a water-resistant one.
Do I need a license to operate a marine VHF radio?
This depends on the type of radio and where you are. In the United States, if you are using a VHF radio on a voluntary basis on a recreational boat, you are not required to have a license. However, there are specific rules about proper operation. If you are operating a radio from a foreign port or on a boat that is required by law to carry a radio (like certain commercial vessels), then you need a license. It’s always a good idea to check the current regulations with the FCC or your local maritime authority. For standard FRS/GMRS radios, a license is required for GMRS channels, but not for FRS channels.