From VHF to GMDSS – What to Expect from Top Marine Communication Equipment Providers

What do you associate water with? Calmness, serenity and ultimate peace. People tend to water whenever in need of mental sanity. But the case is reversed 360 degrees when it comes to the sea and the seafarers. One would imagine an atrocious storm, bad weather, a ship going up and down, crew panicking and the hustle all over that makes every journey difficult. This is the usual scenario painted for any vessel that sets out on a marine venture. However, that needn’t be the case all the time. With the service of the best marine communication equipment suppliers in the UAE, marine situation and emergency responses are quite advanced and balanced in modern times. It’s safe to say that ‘communication’ is indeed the backbone of maritime safety. Without reliable communication, backed by marine communication suppliers, it’s impossible for ships to send distress signals, contact help nearby or even receive emergency help, weather updates or other crucial signals and notifications. And this is applicable for all kinds of vessels – small and large, be it mere fishing boats, cargo or tourist passenger vessels.

It’s essential to understand the working of these marine communication suppliers that truly safeguard the lives of seafarers. Hence, let’s learn all about different marine navigation systems in the UAE, from the basics of Very-High Frequency (VHF) Radios to the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) framework systems.

VHF (Very High Frequency) Radios

So where do we start? Certain incidents might happen when calls or communication needs to happen between ships, your vessel to port authorities and vice versa, or in case of emergencies in coastal areas. That’s when we use VHF or Very High Frequency Radios, which are mainly used for range distance communication, and can function on line of sight. They cover 30 to 40 nautical miles, approximately and are very easy to operate. This is the main reason why they are used for routine calls. A VHF radio is a must-have equipment for all vessels, no matter their size. For faster response and to keep a check on all kinds of alerts in the nearby radius, there’s the ‘Channel 16’ frequency for the international maritime emergency signal. Marine communication suppliers ensure that they facilitate excellent, top-quality VHF sets not just to abide by international standards, but also for a stress-free, risk-free voyage.

MF/HF (Medium & High Frequency) Systems

Short-distance communication means are sorted through VHF radio sets. What about having a wider coverage? The vessels that go deep into the sea as cargo transport, seafood harvesting, cruises, emergency naval services or even for offshore operations. VHF radios are not proficient in these situations as they will be beyond their coverage radius. This is where you will need MF/HF radio communication, or otherwise, the medium and high-frequency bands that give coverage of thousands of miles. Plus, it comes with another perk. It helps ships send automated distress alerts with accurate coordinates, called the Digital Selective Calling (DSC). Just like how small ships or vessels are provided with VHF radios on their voyage, marine communication suppliers make sure to integrate MH/HF radios for ships that go on long trips in the deep sea.

GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System)

Who ensures it? The Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). The responsibilities of certified GMDSS system providers in the UAE include ensuring that no distress call goes unnoticed. They facilitate the use of marine radio equipment in the UAE and satellite communication for ships in the UAE, ensuring that every vessel is rightly equipped with accurate systems. Not just this, certified GMDSS system providers in the UAE guarantee the right installation and maintenance of these radio sets.

Relevance and Provisions of a GMDSS Provider

Okay, so GMDSS is not just another regulatory authority or entity – it’s crucial for any vessel that steps into the deep sea. And that’s why choosing the best GMDSS equipment supplier in the UAE is such a big deal – to make sure that help arrives at a quicker pace and issues are resolved efficiently. And what are the perks? Many! Starting with the fact that only certified GMDSS system providers in the UAE can promise the right compliance with International Maritime Organisation rules. If they are not compliant, then the ship could fail inspections – as simple as that. The crew might not be able to send emergency signals, and it can cost the lives of people on board. What else does a GMDSS provider give you? Well, for easy operation, marine communication suppliers should ensure that the systems they provide integrate well with radar, GPS and other navigation tools. They also provide excellent training to the crew, teaching them how to use systems effectively and providing them with the necessary practical knowledge. Along with this, they also ensure flexible customisations according to the vessel’s requirements and capacity.

This is where Aquamaris Trading Marine Solutions puts a very strong foot ahead, outriding all competitors, and being a stand-out in facilitating the best maritime safety equipment in Dubai.

Common Mistakes When Choosing a Supplier

Cost Over Quality – Trying too hard to be affordable and compromising on quality can often lead to system failures.
Avoiding Compliance Check – It’s essential to ensure that all your safety equipment comes with proper certifications and GMDSS accreditations.

Improper Maintenance – Installing a system and managing it is good, but without proper maintenance and support, it’s only equal to a failed one.

Ignoring Upgrades – Your system, technology and equipment should evolve as per new trends. It’s always wise to choose a supplier who can do proper maintenance, cater to upgrades and work with your organisation for the long run!

Especially in Dubai, which in itself is a major hub for shipping. There is a huge competition among marine safety equipment and communication tools suppliers. Hence, it’s important to look for ones that not only stress buying equipment, but also facilitate installation, maintenance and emergency support on long voyages – like Aquamaris.

FAQs

1. What is the most essential marine communication equipment for vessels?
Most essential would be a VHF radio as it’s equipment that’s the first point of communication and should be in default mode in every vessel, small or big.

2. How do I know if a marine equipment supplier is reliable?
Simple – check for accurate GMDSS certifications and if they offer after-sales support.

4. Can marine communication systems be customised for specific vessels?
Of course! Quality marine communication suppliers have the potential to create tailor-made solutions based on your vessel’s requirements.