you also pack the alkeline tray with batteries - and possibly spare batteries to boot.

You're right, of course, that the range isn't going to be great. So, in a liferaft or lifeboat, there
would be at least 2 scenarios where it might be useful:

1) in the ocean, where a vessel is passing nearby or a helicopter or plane is passing overhead.
While you could be able to signal them with a flare or some other distress signal, having a
VHF with you allows you to be able to *communicate* with them. In very poor visibility, the DSC
function can also help them get a precise fix on your location.

2) when coastal cruising, if you have to abandon ship and take to the dinghy (for instance), there are many
situations in which other vessels will be in range. Of course, there are also areas where it
won't help. On balance, I think it's a good emergency tool to have in the grab bag - especially
since it's not all that expensive and it can serve more ordinary purposes (such as those
you mention).

Jerry