Cell phone range on the ocean

[Pangaroo]

Just curious how far you can call on the water? Is there a dedicated phone # to reach the Coast Guard ? , I read it might be 19 *, not positive about that.

 

[Roccus7]

Can't comment regarding the USCG direct line, have never heard about that and Google shows nothing.

Regardless, range is about 12-15 nmi from the nearest tower, and at the extreme range you won't be getting data, phone calls may work, but Text Messages come through.

Bottom line it doesn't come close to replacing your VHF, but the iPhone 14 will send out emergency notifications via satellite so you're good.

How does emergency SOS via satellite work on iPhone 14?

To use Emergency SOS via satellite, you first need to try and make a 911 call. If no networks are available, then the Emergency Text via Satellite option appears on screen. Tap this, then Report Emergency, and you'll be prompted to answer a few questions about what's happened and what sort of assistance you need.

 

[Pangaroo]

That's good to know. I have the telephone #'s for all the Long Island Coast Guard Stations in my wallet and cell phone #'s for the Long Island Area CG Cutters. Gotta set up my radio to send my exact position to the Coast Guard- it has a built in GPS. Gotta apply for that #, I think it's free for Tow boat members.I know VHF's can make private calls because I made one 30 years ago. Thanks for the information, Roccus7.

 

[Roccus7]

That's good to know. Gotta apply for that #, I think it's free for Tow boat members.I know VHF's can make private calls because I made one 30 years ago. Thanks for the information, Roccus7.

Not sure they do that Private Calling thing over the VHF anymore. I scan with my radio and haven't heard any of that chatter in my 14 years around here. I'm pretty sure cell and satellite phones put that service out of business. I did some Googling and it seems all over. I do miss it though, was fun listen to spouses have an argument over the radio...


Here's the poop on the ID for the automated emergency signal.

Digital Selective Calling (DSC)​

All new radios, and some older ones, have DSC capability. DSC radios are VHF radios, but they have an added benefit of sending an automatic DISTRESS alert (on Channel 70) to the USCG and other nearby DSC and VHF equipped vessels when activated. (Read your manual for specific features of your model.) To take full advantage of the DSC, be sure to obtain a free nine-digit Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number and have it programmed into the unit before you transmit. You may obtain a free MMSI by contacting Boat US, SeaTow or the US Power Squadrons. Newer DSC capable radios also allow non-emergency facilitated boat to boat communications.

I often find it a minor PITA since my Sounder is integral to my GPS. While fishing in the estuaries, I turn off the GPS so I'm not pinging away which does scare the bass in shallow water. After a while, my radio beeps at me because it's not getting a location signal from the GPS. Eventually the warning beep does go off without turning the radio off, or I just go over and hit a button that shuts it up. It takes about 10 min to start beeping, something I use as a "Fish Timer". If I haven't caught or seen any signs of fish, and the beeping starts, I start to debate about moving to a new area, LOL...

 

[cany]

Get a SAT phone

 

[Pangaroo]

Maybe one of those Sat Phones that send SOS and text messages. I see those devices on Amazon and it cost about $11 a month for the service. I go upstate by myself once a month , I'm in a 1 bar cell phone area so that would be good for calling for help up there and on the boat. I just got my MMSI # from Boat US , so easy to get , now all I gotta do is program it into the VHF and it's ready to go. so simple , took 15 minutes. 80 percent of boaters never even bother.

 

[cany]

Maybe one of those Sat Phones that send SOS and text messages. I see those devices on Amazon and it cost about $11 a month for the service. I go upstate by myself once a month , I'm in a 1 bar cell phone area so that would be good for calling for help up there and on the boat. I just got my MMSI # from Boat US , so easy to get , now all I gotta do is program it into the VHF and it's ready to go. so simple , took 15 minutes. 80 percent of boaters never even bother.

S.P.O.T

 

[wader]

when fishing the Canyon on my friend's boat - he had a satellite phone for safety - only reliable communication device thing to have - which you can discontinue the service when not in use

 

[Old Mud]

You can also use an InReach Satellite communicator. While it's not for voice ,text only. It will work anywhere in the world. You can pair it with your phone or tablet. It also has a dedicated SOS button. Service is between $16. and $35. a month. you can activate or deactivate the service as you need it. Mine always works for me.

 

[Pangaroo]

I purchased the Motorola Defy Satellite phone for $149.99 at Cabelas with my $100 gift card. It comes with a year free service ( 15 months if you purchased it in June) . $4.99 a month after the free year. I really needed this for my traveling upstate , my cabin gets weak cell phone reception and in the woods it's very weak. I go fishing by myself on a narrow Panga Boat, now I'll have this attached to my life vest with a strobe light. Should've bought this years ago. $134.99 on Amazon.