Survival craft VHF radios (GMDSS)

ACR GMDSS survival handheld VHF for use in a life raft

ACR • Survival handhelds

GMDSS survival handhelds for life rafts and emergency use

A survival handheld is not an ordinary walkie-talkie. It sits in its holder unused for years, and then it must perform: in a life raft, with wet hands, or while wearing survival suit gloves. When switched on, it goes directly to channel 16.

We supply the SR203 and the SR303 from ACR, both as a standalone emergency device with a sealed lithium battery and as a complete set with a rechargeable battery and charger for daily use.

AML is an official ACR dealer. In addition to the devices, you will find batteries, chargers, antennas, lanyards, and wall brackets here. Are you unsure between the SR203 and SR303, or between a standalone device and a set? Open the selection guide.

Emergency beacons SART transponders Rescue lighting All ACR products
Selection guide: SR203 or SR303, standalone device or complete set — open for explanation and FAQs

Standalone emergency device or complete set?

There are two ACR models on this page, the SR203 and the SR303, and each comes in two versions. In practice, that second choice is the trickiest.

The difference lies in the battery. A standalone device comes with the sealed primary lithium battery and is intended to hang unused in its holder. A set also includes a rechargeable battery and a charger, so you can also use the handheld for regular work on board.

Version What you get For whom
SR203, standalone device With primary lithium battery Those who keep the device on board purely as an emergency tool
SR203 set Primary and rechargeable battery, with fast charger Those who also use the handheld for regular work on board. Separate fast charger, fast-charging kit with mains adapter, and 12-volt adapter are available separately
SR303, standalone device With primary lithium battery The other model in the ACR line
SR303 set Primary and rechargeable battery, with matching fast charger Same as the SR203 set

Pay attention to parts. Batteries, chargers, antennas, lanyards, and wall brackets are specific to each model. Check the product title to see if it says SR203 or SR303 — those parts are not interchangeable. If you are not sure which model you have on board, send us a photo of the type plate.

Frequently asked questions about survival handhelds

How does this differ from a regular handheld VHF?

A survival handheld is built for the moment you abandon ship, not for daily communication. When switched on, it goes immediately to channel 16 and operates on a sealed primary lithium battery so that it can hang unused for years without needing to be charged. The housing and buttons are designed to be operated with wet hands or gloves.

Which battery should be in it?

For emergency use, the primary lithium battery; this is included as standard. The rechargeable battery from a set is intended for daily use. Which configuration your device should have if it is hanging on board as required equipment depends on the regulations your vessel must meet. Check with the authority that inspects your vessel, or ask us for advice.

What is the alkaline test battery for?

It is for the SR203 and is intended to allow you to test the device. Always follow your model's manual when doing so, so that you do not unnecessarily deplete the primary emergency battery.

Are the parts for the SR203 and SR303 interchangeable?

No. Batteries, chargers, antennas, and lanyards are specific to each model. Every product title indicates which device the part is intended for.

Does this replace my fixed VHF radio?

No. A fixed VHF radio with DSC is your daily connection to ports, bridges, locks, and other vessels. A survival handheld is for the moment you abandon ship and board the life raft.

Where do I hang it?

In the wall bracket, in a place you can find in the dark and that you will take with you when you leave the ship — i.e., at the exit or near the grab bag, not at the back of a cupboard. We include the bracket with the device.

Related collections

AML has locations in Apeldoorn and Bruinisse and provides on-board installation.

19 products