Simrad VHF Radios - Handheld

Simrad Handheld VHF Radios: Communication You Can Count On

When you're out on the water, reliable communication isn't a luxury — it's a lifeline. Simrad, a brand with roots stretching back to 1946 and a legacy literally built on marine radio technology, brings that same commitment to their lineup of handheld VHF radios. Engineered for boaters who demand performance in real-world conditions, Simrad's handheld VHF radios blend rugged construction with an intuitive feature set that serves everyone from weekend anglers to serious offshore cruisers.

The HH36: Simrad's Flagship Handheld

The centerpiece of Simrad's handheld VHF lineup is the HH36. This lightweight handheld delivers loud and clear audio, and is packed with features from Class D DSC functionality to an integrated GPS receiver and navigation capabilities. It's the kind of radio that earns its place in your gear bag and stays there.

Usability in demanding marine conditions is clearly a design priority. The HH36 features a backlit, extra-large display for clear visibility, and a large push-to-talk button with soft keys that make it easy to operate with gloves on, while dedicated Channel 16 and MOB buttons enable quick response in emergency situations. That last point matters enormously — when seconds count, fumbling through menus is not an option.

Safety Features That Go Beyond Basic Communication

Class D DSC functionality offers automated distress signals to other DSC-equipped radios, plus direct calling and position sharing with known vessels. This is the kind of feature that transforms a handheld radio from a simple communication tool into a genuine safety device. In a man-overboard or distress scenario, the ability to broadcast your GPS-confirmed position automatically can be the difference that matters.

An integrated GPS receiver means you're always aware of your position. You can easily set waypoints and view navigational information such as distance and bearing to a waypoint from your current position, and in Plotter mode, see nearby waypoints at a glance in a clear graphical display.

Built for the Marine Environment

Simrad doesn't compromise on durability. The HH36 weighs less than 300 grams for convenient carry, is rated waterproof to the JIS-7 standard — making it an ideal radio for open boats and RIBs — and will float if accidentally dropped overboard. For a handheld device that may find itself in spray, rain, or full immersion, this level of protection is essential.

Choose between 1 Watt and 5 Watt transmission power to suit your calling needs, and enjoy up to 13 hours battery life (up to 8 hours at 5 Watt transmission power). That extended runtime means you can head out for a full day on the water without worrying about a dead radio.

A Brand Defined by Marine Communication

The Simrad brand takes its name from Simonsen Radio, which began converting surplus radios for use by commercial fishing vessels just after the Second World War. That origin story is not incidental — it means that marine communication is baked into Simrad's DNA at the deepest level. VHF radio and AIS technology gives you greater awareness and safety when out on your boat. Whether fixed mounted or handheld, VHF radios are one of the most important communication and safety devices for boaters — from simple vessel-to-vessel or vessel-to-shore communications to calling out or responding to on-the-water emergencies.

Explore the full range of Simrad marine electronics or browse all handheld VHF radios to find the right communication solution for your vessel.