vHF radio use

I ordered a Standard Horizon Hx851 VHF radio with GPS. I have heard it said that "one is none and two is one" so a backup GPS could be a good thing to go along with my fish finder GPS combo. I looked at the owners manual about MMSI numbers and group calling. It seems that boating clubs can have a group number that allows all members of the group to be selectively called. I also read on the forum that NCKA uses VHF radios to communicate on the water. Is there a group MMSI number? How are the radios used within this group. I plan on attending  the BSS III and would like to set up the radio for use ahead of time. Does anyone have any tips or info on using VHF during NCKA events and hookups? Thanks Ken

Channel 69.

Thats a great radio. Thing to do is to stay on 69 for yak talk and setup MMSI for any tight group of guys that you might want to keep separate (of course they need MMSI ready radios as well). I havent used the MMSI yet on my Hx851 yet, but sounds like a nice feature especially if there are lots of boats out on the water (like during GS7).

-Murf

The great thing about GPS in the radios is, if you need the coast guard for any reason, the radio can transmit your exact location to them!