kc5fm

I'm just curious - what does one do with the radio on board? I'm unfamiliar with amateur/ham radio; I read the wikipedia entry but still don't understand what the main reason for involvement is, or why it would be of interest on a cruise.

The answers you have heard so far involve High Frequency "shortwave" sets. Another option is for your traveling buddies who are also #hamradio operators to talk to one another while on or off board using their handheld radios.

Just as some folks also like to listen to "scanners", for example, on the railroad frequencies, some folks like to listen to port channels and the Maritime Safety Channel 16.

Just like some can't leave their cell phone turned off in their cabin, there are those in my hobby who would actually melt dead-away, if they could not talk on the radio. :D

It is a fun hobby. For more information, please feel free to visit the ARRL, find a local club, and see if you won't fit.

73

Lloyd, KC5FM

Good information for first time users who are #hamradio folks to know before showing up at the dock.

Thanks for sharing.

73

Lloyd, KC5FM