I was first licensed in ''81 or '82. Had a station aboard during my cruising days. Very handy to have aboard. As Max mentioned the MMSN - Maritime mobil service net and the Pacific Seafarer's net provide a great service to cruisers. The Winlink system for emails is also a great service. It allows you to send & receive emails anywhere in the world and you can get weather forecasts and advisories.

Getting licensed is a lot easier today due to the VE program. No more trips to the FCC for the exam. While the tests for general and extra class licenses can be intimidating there is a lot of good study material from the ARRL and on line. Many clubs offer classes. Since swallowing the anchor I have become very active in our local ham radio club and I am now a VE.

73,
Brian
N7BMW