Any HAM operators out there afloat?

[dnf777]

Hi all. Just wondering if anyone out there operates an amateur station from their boats? Certainly would present some unique challenges, and good opportunities for mounting antennas. If this is off topic too far, my apologies and will go PM or email if anyone interested in chatting.

Dave
N3IYA

[irmedic]

I'm a ham, looking to operate hf from the Bahamas in November. I was going to get a backstay antenna from gam.

I had thought I would have more time for radio aboard so far, though the weather has been too good.

[Patient]

I was just thinking about this today, strange.

I am studying for me Tech right now, but always thought it would be a great hobby while at sea. Would it be possible to do things such as 6 meter, contesting, etc, while doing a passage? I was thinking of having a IC7000 aboard for just that.

I am equally interested to hear if HAMs operate while underway for fun.

[lshick]

Another element to be aware of is that some of the cruiser's nets run on Ham frequencies, so you'll only be able to participate with a General license.

[aeventyr60]

Plenty of SSB Marine nets that operate on non Ham nets as well. Crossing the Pacific several informal nets get going for WX, ship position, winds, swell etc. Good way to keep in contact with your offshore cruising mates. Pacific Seafarer's net in the Pacific, Amigo Net in Mexico. Several in the caribe as well. good way to keep in contact!

[kd3pc]

I use a Flex digital radio, small, runs off 12v and uses my laptop..supports all my ham needs and then some. Awesome receiver and lots of software to do digital modes as well.

I use hustler verticals mounted on the aft rail, reasonably good signals

feel free to PM or email me for more details.

[aa3jy]

Yes..run APRS from the boat.

Clay AA3JY-5
s/v 'Tango'

[casey1999]

Originally Posted by kd3pc

I use a Flex digital radio, small, runs off 12v and uses my laptop..supports all my ham needs and then some. Awesome receiver and lots of software to do digital modes as well.

I use hustler verticals mounted on the aft rail, reasonably good signals

feel free to PM or email me for more details.

What is a Flex digital radio? I am a ham also, have Icom 701 marine SSB and use also for ham. Use a backstay antenna with the Icom AT-130 auto tuner. Works well.

[kd3pc]

Flex Radio (FlexRadio Systems - Software Defined Radios ::: FlexRadio Systems) is one of a few SDR - Software defined radios that provide all the features of a full blown piece of expensive hardware, primarily in SW...there is a "box" and in the case of my Flex 1500 it is about the size of a thick paperback. My computer does a lot of the signal processing and development. Freeware apps give you digital modes, RTTY and even CW decoding. US Made and works better than advertised and for the price of a beginner rig.

Tell them I sent you...you won't be disappointed.

[casey1999]

Originally Posted by kd3pc

Flex Radio (FlexRadio Systems - Software Defined Radios ::: FlexRadio Systems) is one of a few SDR - Software defined radios that provide all the features of a full blown piece of expensive hardware, primarily in SW...there is a "box" and in the case of my Flex 1500 it is about the size of a thick paperback. My computer does a lot of the signal processing and development. Freeware apps give you digital modes, RTTY and even CW decoding. US Made and works better than advertised and for the price of a beginner rig.

Tell them I sent you...you won't be disappointed.

Went to the web site, I had no idea this stuff existed. Very cool. I have been a ham operator for over 30 years but been out of it for a while (like 27years) but I keep my license current. Now I have the marine ssb with ham, plan to use it a little more when I have free time on the boat. Can the flex be used on Marine SSB frequencies (I think is needs FCC acceptance for that)?