In this chapter about digital marine communications, I wish to explain, in straightforward language and by examples, the advantages of acquiring one of these digital devices for your sail or power boat and how they can positively contribute to your activities on the water.

Many boaters may know how to rescue a crewmate who falls overboard, and some of us will practice these techniques prior to offshore sailing. But does our crewmate know what to do if the skipper is incapacitated or falls overboard?

Annual maintenance of your cradle is easy if you know what to look for.