Raymarine Ray63 Fixed Mount VHF Radio, 25W, Built-in GPS, Class D DSC, NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183

Overview

The Raymarine E70516 is the RAY63 fixed-mount VHF radio with Class D DSC, an internal 72-channel GPS/GNSS receiver, and networking for NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 systems. It runs on a 12 V DC boat supply with a 9 V DC to 16 V DC operating range, uses selectable 1 W or 25 W transmit power, and carries IPX6 and IPX7 waterproof ratings for exposed helm and cockpit installations.

This radio suits boats that need a main VHF station with clear controls, a readable screen, and safety features that are easy to reach in rough weather. Once the vessel MMSI is programmed, DSC calling and distress functions can share position data from the built-in GPS/GNSS receiver or from an external GPS/GNSS antenna connection when the mounting location calls for it.

The RAY63 also fits well into modern electronics layouts. It can connect to SeaTalkng or NMEA 2000 networks, legacy NMEA 0183 equipment, an optional passive remote speaker, and optional RayMic stations for multi-station control on larger cockpits, flybridges, or pilothouse layouts.

Key features

• Class D DSC VHF radio for distress calling, individual calling, group calling, and position-based safety functions after MMSI setup.
• Internal 72-channel GPS/GNSS receiver with support for GPS, GLONASS, SBAS, and a passive external antenna through a TNC connection.
• Selectable 1 W and 25 W transmit power for short-range harbor communication or higher-power calls offshore.
• NMEA 2000, SeaTalkng, and NMEA 0183 connectivity for integration with onboard navigation electronics.
• Supports one wired RayMic station or two wireless RayMic controllers for multi-station operation and intercom use.
• IPX6 and IPX7 waterproof ratings help the radio handle spray, washdowns, and exposed console locations.
• Audio output connection supports an optional passive remote speaker for better listening at the helm or away from the main unit.
• Surface and trunnion mounting hardware are included, giving flexibility for flush-style panel layouts or bracket mounting.

Installation and setup

The RAY63 is intended for a 12 V DC installation and should be connected to a protected circuit sized for marine electronics. Current draw is less than 6 A at high transmit power, about 600 mA in standby, and about 2 A during receive, so it belongs on wiring that can handle transmit load without voltage drop at the radio.

Mounting can be handled with the included panel gasket for a cleaner console fit or with the trunnion bracket where angle adjustment and service access matter more. The front fistmic connection keeps the main handset easy to reach, while the rear second-station connection allows a wired handset or wireless hub to be added when the helm layout needs control in more than one location.

Compatibility and fit

The radio covers available US, International, and Canadian VHF marine bands and uses a 50 Ohm VHF antenna connection. It is a strong match for cruising boats, fishing boats, pilothouse boats, and sailboats that need a fixed VHF with DSC safety functions and network integration rather than a basic standalone radio.

For installations where the radio is mounted below a hardtop, inside a cabin, or behind structure that may limit satellite view, the external GPS/GNSS antenna connection gives the installer another way to maintain dependable position input for DSC features.

Electrical and system integration

On an NMEA 2000 or SeaTalkng network, the RAY63 can sit alongside chartplotters, instruments, and other helm electronics. NMEA 0183 support is useful on refits where older navigation equipment is still in service, helping the radio fit into mixed systems without forcing a full electronics replacement.

The built-in speaker, fistmic speaker, and external speaker output give several practical audio options. The base station speaker output is 2.5 W at 8 Ohms, the fistmic speaker output is 1 W at 16 Ohms, and the external speaker output is 5 W at 8 Ohms for installations where engine noise, wind, or distance from the main radio makes a remote speaker worthwhile.

Environmental performance

The RAY63 operates from -20°C to +60°C and is rated for 95% relative humidity, which makes it suitable for real helm conditions where heat, damp air, spray, and seasonal temperature swings are part of normal use. Its IPX6 and IPX7 ratings support mounting in protected outdoor positions, provided the installation follows proper cable routing, strain relief, and connector protection practices.

What’s included

• Ray63 VHF radio
• Suncover
• Panel mount gasket
• Fistmic
• Trunnion mounting bracket
• Mounting bracket knobs
• Fistmic hook plate
• 4 x M4x25 screws for trunnion bracket mounting
• Documentation
• 4 x M4 nuts, spring washers, and M4x25 machine screws for panel mounting
• Protective antenna boot
• 2 x M4x12 screws for fistmic hook plate mounting
• SeaTalkng blanking plug
• SeaTalkng 400 mm spur cable