Standard Horizon GX1800GW Explorer Fixed-Mount VHF Radio | Built-In GPS, 25W, White

A Slim, Full-Featured VHF Built for Everyday Boating

The Standard Horizon GX1800GW Explorer is a fixed-mount Class D DSC VHF radio with a built-in GPS receiver and an ultra-slim 3.3" rear case depth — making it one of the easiest fixed-mount radios to install in tight helm spaces. It delivers 25 watts of transmit power, automatic position embedding in every DSC distress call, and a clean icon-and-menu interface that keeps operation straightforward even in rough conditions.

A dedicated Channel 70 DSC receiver monitors for distress calls continuously without interrupting normal radio use. The preset key stores up to 10 favorite channels for fast access, and the optional RAM4 second-station microphone adds intercom capability between the radio and a remote helm position.

Key Features

• Built-in GPS receiver — automatically transmits your position with every DSC distress call
• Class D DSC — meets ITU-R M.493-13 Class D standard; dedicated CH70 DSC receiver
• 25W transmit power — full legal output for maximum range
• Ultra-slim rear case — only 3.3" deep for easy installation in shallow helm panels
• Icon and menu-driven interface for intuitive operation
• Preset key stores up to 10 channels for fast access
• NMEA 0183 connectivity for integration with compatible chartplotters and GPS units
• Optional RAM4 SSM-70H second-station mic with intercom feature
• White finish

Compatible Applications

• Fixed-mount helm installations on powerboats, center consoles, cruisers, and sailboats
• Shallow helm panels where rear case depth is a constraint (3.3" depth)
• NMEA 0183 chartplotter and GPS integrations
• Multi-station setups using the Standard Horizon RAM4 SSM-70H Wired Second-Station Mic or RAM4X Wireless Second-Station Mic
• Pair with the Standard Horizon MLS410SPW External VHF Speaker for improved audio at the helm
• Step up to the Standard Horizon GX2410GPS Matrix AIS+GPS for AIS receive capability

Parts Desk Insights

Best use case: The GX1800GW is the right radio for boaters who want built-in GPS DSC capability in a compact, easy-to-install package — particularly on vessels with shallow helm panels where a standard-depth radio won’t fit cleanly. The 3.3" rear depth is a genuine differentiator for tight installations. It’s also a strong choice for boaters who want a straightforward, no-fuss interface without a steep learning curve. If you want to add a second helm position, the RAM4 wired mic or RAM4X wireless mic pairs directly with this radio. For AIS target monitoring, step up to the GX2410GPS Matrix AIS+GPS or the GX6000 Quantum AIS with NMEA 2000.