Raymarine Ray73 Fixed Mount VHF Radio, 25W, Class D DSC, AIS Receiver, GPS/GNSS, NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, IPX6/IPX7, Loudhailer

Overview

The Raymarine E70517 is a Ray73 fixed-mount VHF radio for boats that need voice communication, Class D DSC safety calling, AIS receive capability, and onboard network integration from one helm-mounted unit. It transmits at 25 W on high power or 1 W on low power, runs on a 12 V DC system with a 9 V DC to 16 V DC operating range, and supports US, International, and Canadian VHF marine bands.

This radio is a strong fit for cruising boats, fishing boats, and sailboats where the VHF is part of a wider electronics system rather than a stand-alone radio. The built-in AIS receiver can feed target information to compatible displays and instruments, while the internal 72-channel GPS/GNSS receiver supports DSC position data without relying only on another device for position input.

The Ray73 housing is rated IPX6 and IPX7, giving it protection for exposed helm use where spray, rain, and washdowns are part of normal life on board. The full-size chassis, large screen, and oversized controls make it easier to use from a pilothouse, center console, or cockpit station when conditions are moving and attention is split between the helm and the water.

Key features

• Class D DSC VHF radio with 25 W and 1 W transmit power settings for routine calls, hailing, and safety communication.
• Built-in AIS receiver sends nearby AIS target data to compatible chartplotters, radar displays, and instruments.
• Internal GPS/GNSS receiver with support for GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, WAAS, EGNOS, and MSAS.
• NMEA 2000 connection through SeaTalkng and NMEA 0183 support for integration with mixed onboard electronics.
• IPX6 and IPX7 water protection for helm installations exposed to spray, rain, and wet hands.
• Optional loudhailer and fog signaling functions when connected to a compatible hailing horn.
• Supports optional wired or wireless RayMic stations for control from a second location on board.
• Rear connection for a second station, front fistmic connection, RCA audio output, loudhailer wiring, and TNC connection for an optional external GNSS antenna.
• Compact helm footprint for a full-size radio, measuring 7.83 in. wide x 3.88 in. high x 5.63 in. deep.

Installation and setup

The Ray73 can be mounted with the included trunnion bracket or panel-mounted at the helm. The trunnion setup works well on consoles and dash tops where the radio angle may need adjustment, while panel mounting gives a cleaner flush-style installation when there is enough depth behind the dash.

Power should be taken from a properly protected 12 V DC supply, with routing that keeps the radio wiring secure and away from heat, sharp edges, and areas where standing water can collect. For best VHF performance, pair the unit with a suitable 50 ohm marine VHF antenna and keep antenna cable runs as clean and direct as the vessel layout allows.

Electrical and system integration

The Ray73 suits boats that already use Raymarine Axiom displays or a mixed electronics network. Its SeaTalkng and NMEA 2000 connection can share data with compatible systems, while the NMEA 0183 connection helps with older electronics that are still common on working boats and refits.

The AIS function is receive-only, so it helps the crew see AIS-equipped vessels around them but does not transmit the boat’s own AIS position. Owners who need their vessel to appear on other AIS displays will need a separate AIS transmitter or transceiver.

Use on board

This radio is useful at the main helm for coastal cruising, offshore passages, fishing runs, and busy harbor operation where VHF communication and traffic awareness matter. The loudhailer and fog signal capability adds value on boats that need deck communication or audible signaling, especially when docking, anchoring, or operating in reduced visibility.

It is a practical match for owners who want one fixed-mount radio to handle DSC calling, GPS position support, AIS target receiving, and network integration without adding multiple separate boxes at the helm.

What’s included

• Raymarine Ray73 VHF DSC radio
• Sun cover
• Panel mount gasket
• Fistmic
• Trunnion mounting bracket
• Mounting bracket knobs
• Fistmic hook plate
• Documentation
• Protective antenna boot
• SeaTalkng blanking plug
• SeaTalkng 400 mm spur cable
• Panel and bracket mounting hardware