Garmin VHF 215 AIS Marine Radio
Garmin VHF 215 AIS Marine Radio — Product description
Navigating busy waterways demands reliable communication and real-time awareness of surrounding vessels. The Garmin VHF 215 AIS marine radio steps up as a fixed-mount powerhouse, seamlessly integrating AIS data right onto your chartplotter screen. This setup not only boosts your ability to chat with nearby boats but also sharpens collision avoidance by showing positions, speeds, and headings of equipped vessels worldwide.
Whether you're cruising coastal waters, fishing offshore, or sailing long distances, this radio's straightforward plug-and-play connection to Garmin chartplotters via NMEA 2000 keeps things simple. No complex wiring hassles—just enhanced safety and confidence on every outing.
Standout Features for Serious Boaters
- AIS Integration: Receive and display Automatic Identification System targets directly on compatible chartplotters, giving you a live map of nearby traffic without extra hardware.
- Robust 25-Watt Transmit Power: Cuts through interference for clear transmission, paired with built-in GPS for precise positioning during calls.
- Class D DSC Capabilities: Program your MMSI for one-touch distress signals and direct vessel-to-vessel hailing, potentially speeding up rescue in emergencies.
- Comprehensive Channel Coverage: Access all U.S., Canadian, and international marine frequencies, plus 10 NOAA weather channels to stay ahead of changing conditions.
- IPX7 Waterproof Rating: Submersible up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, built to endure rough seas and spray.
- Versatile Connectivity: NMEA 2000 for seamless chartplotter integration and NMEA 0183 for broader compatibility; supports optional foghorn and two-way hailer for deck-to-deck announcements.
Its sleek black LCD display and ergonomic design blend perfectly with modern helms, while the detachable fist mic and included mounting options—bail mount, flush mount gasket, trim ring, and more—make setup a breeze.
Why This VHF Radio Elevates Your On-Water Experience
Safety First in Crowded Waters
AIS overlays turn your chartplotter into a vigilant radar-like tool, spotting unlit fishing boats or fast ferries before they spot you. Combined with DSC, it transforms routine trips into secure adventures, especially at night or in fog.
Effortless Installation for Any Vessel
Connect via NMEA 2000 to popular Garmin series like GPSMAP models, and you're operational in minutes. The power/data harness and protective accessories ensure a clean, professional install on powerboats, sailboats, or center consoles.
Stay Informed, Whatever the Weather
Quick-scan NOAA channels deliver hyper-local forecasts, helping you dodge storms or plan safe returns. The high-power output maintains contact even in choppy conditions or distant anchorages.
Boaters rave about its reliability during multi-day charters or tournaments, where every signal counts. It's not just a radio—it's your bridge to the boating community.
Pro Tips for Maximizing Your VHF 215 AIS
- Position the antenna high on your mast or arch for optimal range—pair it with a quality marine antenna for 25 miles or more.
- Program your MMSI early via the intuitive menu; test DSC calls on open channels to familiarize yourself.
- Use the hailer for coordinating with crew during maneuvers or alerting swimmers—its foghorn presets cover standard signals.
- Regularly scan AIS targets to identify commercial traffic patterns, adjusting your course proactively.
- Clean the LCD with a microfiber cloth to keep visibility sharp in bright sunlight.
These habits turn the radio from a backup tool into your primary safety net, trusted by weekend warriors and pros alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Garmin VHF 215 AIS transmit AIS signals or just receive them?
This model features a receive-only AIS receiver, displaying incoming data on your chartplotter without transmitting your own position. Ideal for enhancing awareness without needing a full transmit-capable unit.
Is the VHF 215 compatible with non-Garmin chartplotters?
Yes, through NMEA 0183 connectivity, it works with many third-party MFDs. For full plug-and-play AIS display, Garmin chartplotters via NMEA 2000 offer the smoothest experience.
What mounting options come with the radio?
It includes a bail mount with knobs, flush mount gasket, trim ring, snap cover, plus hardware for the fist mic bracket. Protective cover and wiring harness are also provided for a complete setup.
Can I add a second station handset?
Yes, it supports an optional second station, perfect for larger vessels needing control points at the bow or flybridge.
How does the IPX7 rating hold up in real-world boating?
IPX7 means it withstands accidental immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes—proven durable against waves, rain, and washdowns common in marine environments.
Does it support weather alerts?
With 10 dedicated NOAA weather channels, you can monitor broadcasts directly. Pair with DSC for position-based weather routing on compatible systems.
Is programming the MMSI user-friendly?
Absolutely—the front-panel interface guides you step-by-step. No computer needed; just enter your unique MMSI once for permanent storage.
Communication and situational awareness are critical on the water. This fixed-mount VHF 215 Garmin AIS radio displays AIS on the chartplotter to enhance communication, situational awareness and collision avoidance between you and other mariners worldwide. Easy to install and use, just plug and play to compatible Garmin chartplotters and MFDs via the NMEA 2000 network. VHF 215 Garmin AIS provides standard Class D DSC functionality (distress calling and direct calling with user-programmed MMSI). The radio includes frequency bands for all U.S., Canadian and international marine channels and 10 NOAA weather channels. It’s also NMEA 0183 network compatible and supports an optional foghorn and two-way hailer system for onboard communication.
Garmin 100209800 Attributes
- Type: Fixed Mount
- Countries: All USA/ Canadian And International Channels
- Power Output (W): 25 Watt
- Automatic Identification System (AIS): With AIS
- GPS Capable: Yes
- With Bluetooth Technology: No
- Display Type: LCD
- Color: Black
Garmin 100209800 Features & Benefits
- Displays Automatic Identification System On The Chartplotter
- In Case Of Trouble, DSC May Improve Your Chances Of A Rapid Rescue
- 25-Watt Transmit Power With Built-In GPS
- Standard Class D Digital Selective Calling Functionality
- Frequency Bands Include All U.S., Canadian And International Marine Channels Plus 10 NOAA Weather Channels
- Water Rating: IPX7
- Limited 2 Year Warranty
VHF 215 AIS Marine Radio
Stay in Contact on the Water
- Displays Automatic Identification System (AIS) on the chartplotter
- Standard Class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC) functionality (distress calling and direct calling with user-programmed MMSI)
- In case of trouble, DSC may improve your chances of a rapid rescue
- 25-watt transmit power with built-in GPS
- Frequency bands include all U.S., Canadian and international marine channels plus 10 NOAA weather channels
Communication and situational awareness are critical on the water. This fixed-mount VHF 215 AIS radio displays AIS on the chartplotter to enhance communication, situational awareness and collision avoidance between you and other mariners worldwide.
Increase Your Peace of Mind
During an emergency situation, the 25-watt transmit power of VHF 215 AIS gives fishermen, sailors and cruisers confidence at their fingertips.
Communicate Confidently on the Water
Easy to install and use, just plug and play to compatible Garmin chartplotters and MFDs via the NMEA 2000 network. VHF 215 AISI provides standard Class D DSC functionality (distress calling and direct calling with user-programmed MMSI). The radio includes frequency bands for all U.S., Canadian and international marine channels and 10 NOAA weather channels. It’s also NMEA 0183 compatible and includes a two-way hailer system for onboard communication.
Communicate with Style
Because your helm is a source of pride, the VHF 215 AIS marine radio is designed to complement the appearance of GPSMAP® 7x2/9x2, GPMAP 10x2/12x2, GPSMAP 7400/7600 and GPSMAP 8400/8600 chartplotters and MFDs.
VHF 215 AIS Marine Radio, MFG# 010-02098-00, 25 Watts, scan functions, built-in GPS and AIS receiver, Class D DSC, Hailer, detachable mic, optional second station, and NMEA 2000."Stay in Contact on the WaterDisplays Automatic Identification System (AIS) on the chartplotterStandard Class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC) functionality (distress calling and direct calling with user-programmed MMSI)In case of trouble, DSC may improve your chances of a rapid rescue25-watt transmit power with built-in GPSFrequency bands include all U.S., Canadian and international marine channels plus 10 NOAA weather channelsCommunication and situational awareness are critical on the water. This fixed-mount VHF 215 AIS radio displays AIS on the chartplotter to enhance communication, situational awareness and collision avoidance between you and other mariners worldwide."
SKU: NVN-73201
MPN: 010-02098-00
UPC: 753759210786
Technical specifications
| Brand | Garmin |
| Model | Garmin VHF 215 AIS Marine Radio |
| SKU / MFR# | 73201 |
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