Nautical blog

Fixed VHF vs portable VHF + Class B AIS — the essential 2026 combination

A marine VHF is no longer just a radio. The 2026 generation integrates GPS, ASN/DSC, AIS-RX as standard, and Class B AIS SOTDMA as a premium option. For a serious sailboat, it is the #1 safety device — even ahead of an EPIRB. Technical comparison: fixed vs portable VHF, Class A vs B vs B-SOTDMA AIS, brands B&G/ICOM/Raymarine. Workshop verdict by program + French legal framework.