What to buy- VHF w/ GPS??

Hi All,

So I have decided to buy a radio for safety purposes.  Seems like I would need to buy one with GPS so that if I am in trouble I can provide my exact coordinates.

West Marine sells a Standard brand for about $250.  Does anyone have any recommendations for a good VHF Radio that is easy to use, has decent battery life, floats and can tell people where I am if I am in a jam.

Thoughts much appreciated!

Peter

I use VHF H280s by Horizon 120 bucks, really nice battery last longer than expected I can use it for 3 days without recharging

You can get the SH 290 for &109 after the $20 rebate.

http://www.hodgesmarine.com/Standard-Horizon-Hx290-Floating-Handheld-Vhf-Radio-p/stahx290.htm?click=39123

I've never seen a combo vhf/gps unit yet, don't know if there is one on the market?

A lot of guys use a portable GPS or a fishfinder with GPS in addition to a good VHF radio that is water proof and the better one's also float.

Standard horizon does make a VHF with GPS handheld radio, $269. Not a bad idea for safety reasons to have your location on your radio. Maybe next time my VHF dies I will consdier this.

Thanks for bringing to our attention, A-K

My Standard Horizon HX850S is submersible, floats, has built in GPS, MMSI, S.O.S. strobe, and a red distress button for DSC distress call. It has a clip on the back side which I use to attach to my PFD. The only thing I dislike about this radio is it is a bit bulky. I used this radio for 2 seasons with no problems, even after wiping out in the surf a few times. I tend to baby my gear and rinse it with fresh water after every outing. So far the electrical contacts have held up with no corrosion.

I have the same combo radio as Kristy...but I tend to not baby my gear ( my friends call me a HOE - hard on equipment), so far so good.