Garmin VHF 215 AIS Fixed-Mount Marine VHF Radio, AIS Receiver Only, Class D DSC, NMEA 2000/0183, Built-In GPS, 25W

Overview

The Garmin 010-02098-00 is a fixed-mount VHF marine radio with an AIS receiver and Class D DSC for 12 Vdc boats. It transmits up to 25 W (with 1 W and 25 W modes) and carries an IPX7 water rating for real helm and cockpit conditions. The AIS side is receive-only, so it can show nearby AIS targets on a compatible chartplotter when the radio is networked, but it does not transmit AIS reports.

Position for DSC can come from the internal GPS antenna, and a remote GPS antenna can be added if the mounting spot blocks reception. The chassis measures 3.86 x 7.76 x 5.78 in (H x W x D), and a 75 cm (29.5 in) compass-safe distance helps with planning the helm layout.

Key features

• 25 W VHF transmit with 1 W low-power mode for close-range work in marinas and harbors
• AIS receiver for plotting nearby AIS targets on a compatible chartplotter (receive-only, no AIS transmit)
• Class D DSC calling, including distress and direct calling once an MMSI is programmed
• Internal GPS antenna for position-enabled DSC, with support for an optional remote GPS antenna via BNC
• NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 connectivity for sharing AIS and DSC data with compatible electronics (one protocol active at a time)
• IPX7 water rating and an SO-239 VHF antenna connection (50 ohm)
• Audio options for noisy boats: 4 W external speaker output (4 ohm) and 20 W hailer output (4 ohm) for an optional deck horn or PA speaker
• USA, Canadian, and international channel sets, plus NOAA weather channels and alerts on supported models and regions

Installation and setup

This radio mounts either on a bail bracket or flush in a dash panel. Plan for about 5.78 in of depth behind the mounting surface, and keep it around 75 cm (29.5 in) from a magnetic compass to reduce interference.

Power is a straightforward 12 Vdc connection using the fused lead. You will also need a properly installed marine VHF antenna connected to the SO-239 port. If you want a second station or to relocate the microphone, the VHF 215 platform supports an additional microphone connection and a relocation setup using compatible accessories.

Networking and chartplotter integration

For AIS targets and DSC position information to appear at the helm, connect the radio to either a NMEA 2000 network or a NMEA 0183 device, then set the radio to use the matching protocol. The radio cannot communicate over NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 at the same time, so installations that have both typically choose the network that best matches the chartplotter and backbone already on board.

This setup suits coastal cruisers, sailors, and fishing boats that want a single VHF at the helm plus AIS target overlay on the chartplotter without adding a separate AIS receiver box.

On-board PA and foghorn

If you add a 4-ohm hailer horn or PA speaker, the radio can drive it from the built-in hailer output (20 W at 4 ohm). Some configurations also support foghorn patterns through that same deck speaker, which is useful for low-visibility runs.

To reduce feedback, mount the hailer horn or PA speaker at least 3 m (10 ft) away from, and facing away from, the microphone location.

What’s included

• VHF 215 AIS marine radio
• Removable fist microphone
• Microphone mounting bracket and hardware
• Bail mount with knobs and mounting hardware
• Protective cover
• Trim ring snap cover
• Flush mount gasket
• Power and data wire harness
• Documentation

Maintenance and care

For routine cleaning, wipe the outer casing with a cloth dampened with a mild detergent solution, then wipe dry. Avoid chemical cleaners and solvents that can attack plastics. After heavy spray or a washdown, drying the unit helps keep salt residue from building up around controls and connectors.

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Returns may be requested within 30 days of receiving your order. Items must be unused, uninstalled, unaltered, and returned in their original packaging with all tags, packing materials, blank warranty cards, manuals, instructions, accessories, and included items. Certain products, including installed or used electronics, electrical components, lighting, consumables, custom or special-order items, cut-to-length products, safety equipment, and merchandise exposed to water or marine conditions, may not be eligible for return.

To request a return, sign in to your account and select the applicable order and items, and submit your request for review. Eligible unfulfilled items may also be submitted for cancellation within 1 hour of placing the order. Returns or cancellations are not considered approved until you receive confirmation from Apollo Lighting. Please do not ship or drop off merchandise before receiving return approval and instructions.

Customers are responsible for arranging and paying for return shipping unless the return is due to an error by Apollo Lighting or the item is verified as defective, damaged, or incorrect. Missing, damaged, defective, or incorrect items must be reported within 2 business days of delivery, and photos or other documentation may be required for review. If the issue is verified, Apollo Lighting may provide or reimburse return shipping and issue a replacement or refund depending on the circumstances. International customers are responsible for return shipping, duties, taxes, customs charges, brokerage fees, and other costs associated with an international return.

After your return is received and inspected, approved refunds are issued to the original payment method and may take 5-7 business days to appear after processing. Original shipping and handling charges are nonrefundable, and the value of any included free items that are not returned may be deducted from the refund. Apollo Lighting does not charge a standard restocking fee on eligible returns. Returns that are incomplete, damaged, installed, used, altered, improperly packaged, or otherwise do not meet the eligibility requirements may be refused. We recommend using a trackable and appropriately insured shipping service for all customer-arranged returns.

For assistance, contact info@apollolighting.com or call +1 (954) 375-0100.

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Many products sold by Apollo Lighting include a manufacturer's warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship. Warranty terms vary by brand, product category, and model, so eligibility, coverage duration, exclusions, and available remedies are determined by the applicable manufacturer. We recommend reviewing the warranty information provided with your product before installation or use, especially for marine electronics, navigation equipment, lighting, electrical systems, pumps, safety equipment, and other specialized marine products.

If you need warranty service, the claim must follow the process established by the manufacturer, authorized service center, or designated warranty provider. You may be asked for proof of purchase, a serial number, product registration, photos, maintenance or installation records, or other documentation. Apollo Lighting does not determine or modify a manufacturer's warranty coverage or final claim decision, but we are happy to help provide purchase information and direct you to the appropriate manufacturer or warranty resource.

Keep your receipt, product documentation, serial number information, and original packaging when practical. Damage caused by normal wear, misuse, improper installation, insufficient maintenance, corrosion, impact, unauthorized modifications, electrical issues, or operation outside the manufacturer's specifications may not be covered. Warranty claims are separate from standard returns, so a product that has been installed, used, or exposed to marine conditions may no longer qualify for return while still remaining eligible for evaluation under the manufacturer's applicable warranty.

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