Cobra BlueBound 350 Marine VHF Radio Owners Manual

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing a Cobra Marine® VHF radio. When used properly, this Cobra® product will give you many years of reliable service.

How Your Cobra Marine VHF Radio Works

This radio is a battery-powered portable transceiver for use on the water. It provides 2-way vessel-to-vessel and vessel-to-shore station communications, primarily for safety and secondarily for navigation and operational purposes. It allows you to call for help, get information from other boaters, talk to lock or bridge tenders, and make radiotelephone calls globally through a marine operator. In the U.S.A., the radio also provides quick access to ten NOAA (National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration) and two Canadian weather channels for alerts on weather emergencies with a tone on a selected channel.

Customer Assistance

For assistance, refer to this manual. If further help is needed, Cobra Electronics offers:

• Call: 800-543-1608 (Monday-Friday 9:00 AM-5:00 PM EST)
• Support Ticket: Visit cobra.com/pages/contact-us
• Live Chat: Visit cobra.com (Monday-Friday 10:00 AM-6:30 PM EST). Look for the chat icon at the lower bottom right of web pages.

For Assistance Outside the U.S.A: Contact Your Local Dealer

Radio Overview

Radio Components

The radio features an Antenna, External Speaker/Microphone Jack, Push to Talk (PTT) button, Backlight/Key Lock button, Enter/Setup button, Tri-Watch (TW) button, Scan button, 16+ button, Power/Volume Knob, Speaker, and Microphone.

LCD Screen

The Dot Matrix Display shows various indicators:

• Channel Numbers: Displays the current channel.
• Channel Map: Indicates the selected channel map (USA, International, Canada).
• Weather Alert Icon: Indicates weather alert status.
• Roger Beep Icon: Indicates Roger Beep status.
• Scan Icon: Indicates scanning is active.
• Battery Power: Shows remaining battery life.
• Favorite Channel Icon (Star): Indicates a favorite channel.
• Key Lock Icon: Indicates the buttons are locked.
• Receive & Transmit Icons: Indicate radio activity.
• Signal Strength: Displays signal strength.
• Low/Medium/High Power Icons: Indicate transmission power level.
• Simplex Operation Icons: Indicate simplex mode.

Product Features

• Power Settings: Selectable 1, 3, or 6 Watts output power.
• USA/International/Canada Channels: Operates on three different channel maps.
• All NOAA Weather Channels: Instant access to National Weather Channels and alerts.
• Floating and Waterproof: IPX7 waterproofing; radio floats when immersed.
• Float N' Flash: Radio strobe light flashes when dropped in water.
• 120V/12V Charging Adapters: Includes USB-C cable and 12V power adapter for charging dock.
• Instant Channel 16/9: Quick access to emergency Channel 16 and calling Channel 9.
• Tri-Watch: Monitors three channels simultaneously (Channel 16 and two user-selected channels).
• Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery: Rechargeable via included USB-C dock charger.
• Favorite Channels: Save important channels for quick access.
• Speaker Mic Jack: Allows connection of an optional external speaker/microphone accessory.
• Backlit Keypad & Day/Night Display: High visibility LCD and backlit buttons.
• Dock Charger: Includes a slot for charging an additional battery.
• Locking Battery Latch: Quick release with a sliding lock tab.
• BURP: Expels water from the speaker grill.

Safety Information

Read all precautions and warnings before use. Pay special attention to WARNING (potential injury/loss of life) and NOTICE (potential equipment damage) statements.

Safety Training Information

This radio complies with RF energy and electromagnetic energy guidelines, including:

• FCC OET Bulletin 65
• ANSI C95.1-1992, C95.3-1992
• Industry Canada RSS-102

General Precautions

WARNINGS:

• Do not touch the antenna when transmitting. Keep radio at least 2 inches (5cm) away.
• Do not operate with more than a 5% transmit duty cycle.
• Always use Cobra authorized accessories.
• Do not operate in explosive atmospheres or areas prohibiting radio transmissions.
• Never place the transceiver where it could interfere with vessel operation or cause injury.
• Do not allow unsupervised children or unfamiliar persons to operate the radio.

Failure to observe warnings may exceed FCC RF exposure limits or create dangerous conditions.

Industry Canada Notice

This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standards. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) no harmful interference, and (2) acceptance of any interference.

(French translation provided in original document for Canadian notice)

Industry Canada Antenna Notice

Transmitter may only operate with approved antenna types and gain to reduce radio interference.

(French translation provided in original document for Canadian antenna notice)

NOTICE

• Radio is waterproof only when the battery is properly installed.
• Avoid using or storing below -4°F (-20°C) or above 140°F (60°C).
• Keep radio at least 3 ft (0.9 m) away from magnetic navigation compass.
• Do not attempt internal servicing; contact a qualified technician.
• Handle Lithium-ion battery with care: do not short circuit, dispose of properly, do not operate while recharging.
• Modifications may void FCC/Industry Canada compliance.

Recommendations for Marine Communication

Use this radio for safety, navigation, and operational messages. For longer distances, consider a 25-Watt fixed mount radio. Cellular telephones are not a substitute for marine radios due to limited coverage and inability to communicate with rescue vessels.

FCC Licensing Information

Cobra Marine VHF radios comply with FCC regulations for the Maritime Radio Service. They operate on allocated marine channels and are switchable for USA, International, or Canadian regulations. Features instant access to Channel 16 and Channel 9, plus NOAA All Hazards Radio.

Station License

An FCC ship station license is not required for vessels in U.S. waters not required to carry radio equipment. Vessels on international voyages or carrying specific equipment must obtain a license.

International Station License

For entry into other countries' waters, contact their communications regulatory authority for licensing information.

Radio Call Sign

Recreational boaters currently do not need an FCC license. The U.S. Coast Guard recommends using the boat's registration number and state of registry as a call sign.

Canadian Ship Station License

A Radio Operator's Certificate is required for operation in Canadian waters. Training is available from the Canadian Power Squadron.

User Responsibility and Operating Locations

Users must observe domestic and foreign government regulations. VHF frequencies are for marine use; land operation requires a special license. This device complies with FCC Part 15 and Industry Canada RSS standards, subject to no harmful interference and acceptance of interference.

FCC Warning: Unauthorized modifications may violate technical regulations.

Operation

Included in this Package

The package includes the Radio, Wrist Strap, Dock Charger, Lithium-ion Battery, Spring-Loaded Belt Clip, 12V Charging Adaptor, and AC Charging Adapter.

Wrist Strap and Belt Clip

The wrist strap attaches via the strap hole on the radio's housing. The belt clip slides into the guide channel on the back of the radio and secures with a tab.

External Speaker/Microphone Jack

An optional external speaker/microphone can be connected to the jack on top of the radio. Ensure a proper connection to maintain waterproofness.

Batteries and Charging

The radio uses a rechargeable Lithium-ion (LiON) battery (P/N 0010103-1). Use only the provided charger for this battery pack. Avoid extreme temperatures to prolong battery life.

Installing the Battery Pack

1. Slide the bottom locking latch to Unlock.
2. Position the battery pack on the back of the radio.
3. Insert battery tabs into slots and press down to secure with the latch.
4. Slide the battery locking latch to the locked position.

Removing the Battery Pack

1. Slide the battery locking latch to Unlock.
2. Push down on the battery latch to release.
3. Gently remove the battery.

Initial Charge

The battery can be charged using the dock charger with either the 12V or AC adapter. The dock charger also has a slot for an additional battery. Both the radio and an extra battery can be charged simultaneously.

To charge your radio:

1. Connect the 12V or AC adapter to power outlets.
2. Connect the USB-C end of the adapter to the dock charger.
3. Place the radio in the front slot; the light indicates charging.
4. Green light indicates a fully charged battery.

To charge an extra battery:

1. Align battery terminals with charger terminals.
2. Slide battery into the rear slot; the light indicates charging.
3. Green light indicates a fully charged battery.

Warning: Only use Cobra BlueBound battery packs with the supplied dock charger.

Battery Charge Levels

The battery power icon on the LCD shows remaining power. The charge bar decreases as the battery drains. A flashing battery icon indicates it's time to recharge or change the battery. It is recommended to recharge after every use.

Basic Radio Functions

Refer to the Radio Overview for control identification. Instructions use "Press" (approx. 1 second) or "Press and Hold" (approx. 3 seconds). Buttons (except PTT) produce a brief tone upon pressing. Icons appear on the LCD, and the backlight turns on for 10 seconds.

Two beeps confirm setting changes; three beeps indicate an error.

Power Button

To turn ON: Rotate the knob clockwise past the orange indicator line.

To turn OFF: Rotate the knob counterclockwise until the orange line aligns with the radio's orange indicator line.

Power Saver

The radio automatically enters Power Save mode after 10 seconds of inactivity (no transmissions, signals, or button presses). Signal reception or any button press reactivates the radio.

Volume Control

Rotate the POWER/VOLUME knob clockwise to increase volume, counterclockwise to decrease.

Radio Speaker and Microphone

Internal speaker and microphone are on the bottom front. An optional Speaker/Microphone jack is on top.

Backlight/Key Lock Button

Pressing any button (except PTT) illuminates the LCD backlight for 10 seconds. Pressing the Backlight/Key Lock button temporarily displays the backlight. If the backlight is on, pressing it again turns it off.

Key Lock

To prevent accidental changes, press and hold the Backlight/Key Lock button for two seconds to lock/unlock all front buttons. The Key Lock icon appears/disappears on the LCD. While locked, button presses (except PTT) produce an error tone. PTT and Backlight/Key Lock buttons remain active. You can receive (Rx) or transmit (Tx) but cannot change channels or settings.

Channel Up/Down Buttons

Use these buttons to change channels. Scrolling past the highest channel returns to the lowest, and vice versa. Pressing and holding scrolls automatically. If a selected channel is low power, the radio switches to Low Power mode. If Key Lock is active, channel changes are blocked, producing an error tone.

Scan Button

All Channel Scan:

Press and release the Scan button to scan all channels. The SCAN icon appears. Press Channel Up/Down to change scan direction. When a signal is received, scanning pauses for 10 seconds after the signal ends. Manual resume is possible by pressing Channel Up/Down. Press Scan again to exit.

Favorite Channel Scan:

Press and hold the Scan button to scan only favorite channels. The SCAN icon appears. Press Scan again to exit.

Tri-Watch Mode

Monitors three channels: Channel 16 and two user-selected channels.

Tri-Watch Channel Selection:

Press and hold the TW button to enter setup. The display shows "TW CHANNEL ENTER 01". Use Channel Up/Down to select the first channel, then press Enter/Setup to save and move to the second channel selection. Repeat for the second channel, then press Enter/Setup to save and exit.

Tri-Watch Operation:

1. In Marine standby mode, press and release the TW button to start scanning.
2. The radio scans Channel 16 and the two selected channels.
3. A signal on any channel pauses the scan for 10 seconds.

Note: If no buttons are pressed within 10 seconds after a signal ends, scanning resumes automatically.

4. Press Channel Up/Down to manually resume scanning.
5. Press TW again to exit Tri-Watch mode.

Favorite Channels

Save channels by pressing and holding the Star key for 2 seconds. The star icon appears. To remove a favorite, press and hold the Star key on that channel; the star icon disappears.

Press the Star button to cycle through favorite channels. If no favorites are saved, no action occurs. Using Channel Up/Down while scrolling favorites moves to the next channel normally.

High/Medium/Low (H-M-L) Power Button

Transmit at 1, 3, or 6 Watts. Cobra recommends low power for short-range communication to conserve battery and minimize interference. Use high power for long-range or when low power signals are not answered. Press the H-M-L button to cycle power levels. The LCD shows the current level. Some channels are restricted to 1W and will automatically set low power mode.

Note: Some channels/bands/countries may not support High Power mode.

16+ Button

Provides quick access to Channel 16 and Channel 9.

• Press 16+ to go to Channel 16.
• Press 16+ again to go to Channel 9.
• Press 16+ a third time to return to the last used standby channel.

NOAA Weather

Provides continuous weather information. Recorded messages repeat every 4-6 minutes and are revised every 2-3 hours. The Coast Guard also announces weather and safety warnings on Channel 16.

Weather (WX) Standby Mode:

Press and hold the H-M-L/WX button to enter WX Standby mode. The LCD displays the WX icon, last used weather channel, and signal strength.

Note: Only one or two weather channels may be active in a given location. Select the channel with the strongest signal.

Weather Alert:

Allows the radio to listen for NOAA Hazard Alerts. When ON, the radio periodically checks for alert tones. Upon receiving an alert, it sounds a tone and switches to the alerting channel.

To turn WX Alert ON, press and hold Enter/Setup in WX Standby mode. The LCD shows a flashing alert triangle and "WX ALERT ON/OFF". Use Up/Down keys to select, and Enter/Setup to save.

Burp

Expels water from the speaker grill, useful after submersion or heavy rain. To activate, press and release the 16+ and Scan keys simultaneously. Burp tones sound for 8 seconds, displaying "BURP" on the LCD. Transmission is locked during this time. The radio returns to marine standby mode afterward.

Menu Setup

Press and hold the Enter/Setup key for 3 seconds to enter menu setup. Options are Squelch Control, Backlight Display Color, Channel Map, Roger Beep, and Key Tone. Press Enter/Setup after each to save and move to the next option.

Squelch Control:

Filters weak signals and RF noise. Enter setup mode, then use Up/Down keys to adjust squelch (0-10). Save to move to Display Color. Note: If squelch is too low, Tri-Watch & scan may be disabled.

Backlight Display Color:

Choose between amber or white. In setup, the LCD shows "DISPLAY COLOR:". Use Up/Down keys to switch colors. Save to move to Channel Map.

Channel Map:

Select between USA, Canada, and International channel maps. In setup, the LCD shows map options. Use Up/Down keys to select, and Enter/Setup to save and move to Roger Beep.

Roger Beep

An audible tone sounds when the PTT button is released, indicating the end of transmission. In setup, the LCD shows "ROGER BEEP ON/OFF". Use Up/Down keys to toggle. Save to move to Key Tone.

Key Tone

An audible tone sounds when a button is pressed or a setting is changed. In setup, the LCD shows "KEY TONE ON/OFF". Use Up/Down keys to toggle. Save to exit menu setup.

Standby, Receive and Transmit

Marine Standby and Receive (Rx) Mode:

Default mode. Allows changing settings and transmitting via the PTT button. Receives messages on selected channels.

Transmit (Tx) Mode:

Allows interaction with safety services and other vessels. Follow procedures and courtesies.

To Transmit a Message:

1. Ensure the radio is on the correct channel.
2. Press and hold the PTT button, speak into the microphone (approx. 2 inches away). The Transmit icon appears.
3. Release the PTT button when finished. The radio operates in either Tx or Rx mode. Response is heard only when PTT is released. Low battery may prevent transmission.

Note: Holding PTT for five minutes triggers beeps and stops transmission to prevent drain. Transmission can resume upon PTT release.

Radio Care

• Keep clean with a soft cloth and mild detergent. Avoid solvents or abrasive cleaners.
• Wipe with a soft, moist cloth daily if exposed to salt water to prevent salt buildup.
• If storing for extended periods, remove batteries and store separately.

Troubleshooting

VHF Marine Radio Procedures

Maintain Your Watch

Keep the radio operational and tuned to Channel 16 when underway, unless used for other communications.

Power

Start with 1 Watt for nearby stations. Increase to 3 Watts, then 6 Watts if no answer is received, to maximize calling distance. Lower wattage conserves battery and minimizes interference.

Calling Coast Stations

Call on the assigned channel. Use Channel 16 if the assigned channel is unknown.

Calling Other Vessels

Call on Channel 16 or Channel 9 (preferred for recreational use). Ship-to-ship channels can also be used if the vessel is known to be listening.

Initial Calling on Channel 16 or 9

Channel 16 is for initial contact and emergencies. Follow calling limits. Channel 9 can be used for non-emergency calls in U.S. waters if Channel 16 is congested.

Limits on Calling

Do not call the same station for more than 30 seconds. Wait 2 minutes before re-calling if no reply. After three attempts, wait 15 minutes.

Change Channels

After initial contact, switch to a channel designated for the message type.

Station Identification

Identify your vessel by name, state registration number, and FCC call sign (if applicable) at the beginning and end of messages.

Prohibited Communications

You MUST NOT transmit:

• False distress or emergency messages.
• Obscene, indecent, or profane language.
• General calls or signals on Channel 16 (except emergencies).
• When on land.

Voice Calling

Listen to Channel 16 while standing by. It is the distress and safety channel. The Coast Guard monitors Channel 16. Channel 9 is for general-purpose calling by recreational vessels to reduce congestion on Channel 16.

To call another vessel or shore installation:

• Ensure the radio is ON.
• Be in standby listening mode on Channel 16, ensuring it is not in use.
• When the channel is clear, press the PTT button and call. Speak clearly, stating the name of the station being called and "This is [your vessel name or call sign]."
• Once contact is made, switch to another working channel.
• If no response, wait two minutes and repeat. Three attempts are permitted, two minutes apart. If still no contact, wait 15 minutes.
• After communication, sign off with call sign/name and "out," then return to Channel 16.

Note: "Over" means a reply is expected; "Out" means transmission is finished.

Emergency Messages and Distress Procedure

The radio is crucial for emergencies. The Coast Guard monitors Channel 16 and coordinates rescue efforts.

Communicate with the Coast Guard immediately if experiencing difficulties, before the situation becomes an emergency. Use emergency procedures only for grave situations or immediate danger. Use Channel 16 and high power for emergency messages. Do not use emergency procedures for minor issues like running out of fuel; contact a friendly vessel or marina for assistance.

Marine Emergency Signals

International emergency signals:

• MAYDAY: Grave and imminent danger, requests immediate assistance.
• PAN PAN: Urgency signal for safety of vessel or person.
• SECURITE: Safety signal for navigation or weather warnings.

Speak the signal three times before the message.

If You Hear a Distress Call

Give priority to distress calls. Remain silent on Channel 16 during an emergency unless directly involved. If a distress call is unanswered, respond. If the vessel is not nearby, wait for others to respond. You may relay the message if unable to assist directly.

Example Marine Distress Procedure

Speak slowly, clearly, and calmly:

1. Ensure radio is ON.
2. Select Channel 16.
3. Press Talk button and say: "MAYDAY -- MAYDAY -- MAYDAY." (Or PAN PAN/SECURITE).
4. Say: "THIS IS [your vessel name or call sign]," repeated three times.
5. Say: "MAYDAY (or PAN PAN/SECURITE) [your vessel name or call sign]."
6. State your location (navigational aids/landmarks).
7. State the nature of your distress.
8. State the kind of assistance needed.
9. Give number of persons aboard and condition of any injured.
10. Estimate vessel's seaworthiness.
11. Describe your vessel (length, type, color, hull).
12. Say: "I WILL BE LISTENING ON CHANNEL 16."
13. End message: "THIS IS [your vessel name or call sign]. OVER."
14. Release Talk button and listen. If no response, repeat from step 3.

Warranty

For Example (Distress Call):

"Mayday -- Mayday -- Mayday" "This is Corsair -- Corsair -- Corsair" [or "IL 1234 AB," repeated three times] "Mayday Corsair (or IL 1234 AB)" "Navy Pier bears 220 degrees magnetic -- distance 5 miles" "Struck submerged object and flooding -- need pump and tow" "Four (4) adults, three children aboard -- no one injured" "Estimate we will remain afloat one-half hour" "Corsair (or IL 1234 AB) is 26 ft sloop with blue hull and tan deck house" "I will be listening on Channel 16" "This is Corsair (or IL 1234 AB)" "Over"

Warranty Terms:

Cobra warrants the product against defects in materials and workmanship for three (3) years from the date of original purchase. Cobra will, at its discretion, repair or replace the product free of charge. Shipping charges to Cobra are not covered. Products received COD will be refused.

Warranty claims require proof of purchase (invoice or receipt), unless purchased factory-direct.

Warranty Exclusions:

Warranty does not apply if:

1. The serial number has been removed or modified.
2. The product has been misused or damaged (including water damage, physical abuse, improper installation).
3. The product has been modified.
4. Proof of purchase is from an unauthorized dealer or internet auction site.

LIMITATION OF WARRANTY:

The product is acquired "AS IS" and "WHERE IS". Cobra disclaims all warranties, express or implied, including merchantability and suitability for a particular purpose. Cobra is not liable for consequential, special, or incidental damages arising from use, misuse, or mounting.

Limitations are subject to state laws. Cobra is not responsible for lost shipments.

General Warranty Information

All manufactured products are covered by factory warranty. Specific policies may vary, but general guidelines apply.

Products purchased factory-direct or from authorized resellers have a one to three (1-3) year warranty. Standard accessories have a one-year warranty.

Shipping to Cobra is not covered; return shipping is included within the US. Warranty is non-transferable.

Repairs do not include removal or installation labor costs.

Cobra is not responsible for lost packages.

For questions about operation or installation, contact Cobra FIRST. Do not return to retail stores.

Contact information varies by country; visit cobra.com/support for the latest details. In the U.S.A., call 800-543-1608.

For support, FAQs, and manuals, visit cobra.com.

Disposal of Old Electrical or Electronics Equipment

This product may contain hazardous substances. The crossed-out wheeled bin symbol indicates it should not be disposed of with household waste. It must be handed over to an applicable collection point for recycling. Proper disposal helps prevent negative environmental impact.

Contact your local civic office or the original place of purchase for information on collection, reuse, and recycling systems.

Specifications

General

Receiver

Transmitter

VHF Marine Channel Assignments

Three sets of VHF channel maps exist: USA, Canada, and International. Many channels are shared, but distinctions exist. The radio supports all three maps.

Channel Assignments (English) - U.S.A. Channel Map Outline

Distress, Safety, and Calling

Channel 16: For calling and emergencies (distress and safety).

Calling

Channel 9: General-purpose (non-emergency) calling for non-commercial vessels. Recreational boaters are urged to use this channel to reduce congestion on Channel 16.

Intership Safety

Channel 6: Ship-to-ship safety messages and search/rescue messages to Coast Guard ships and aircraft.

Coast Guard Liaison

Channel 22A: For communication with the Coast Guard (non-emergency) after initial contact on Channel 16.

Non-Commercial

Channels 67, 68, 69, 71, 72, 78A, 79A, 80A*: Working channels for small vessels. Used for fishing reports, berthing, rendezvous. Channel 72 is for ship-to-ship only.

Commercial

Channels 1A, 7A, 8, 9, 10, 11, 18A, 19A, 63A, 67, 72, 79A, 80A, 88A*: Working channels for commercial ships. Used for business or ship needs. Channels 8, 67, 72, and 88A are for ship-to-ship.

Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)

Channels 84, 85, 86, 87, 87A, 88*: For calls to marine operators at public coast stations for telephone calls.

Port Operations

Channels 1A*, 5A*, 12*, 14*, 20A, 63A*, 65A, 66A, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77*: Used for directing ship movement in or near ports, locks, or waterways. Messages must be about operational handling, movement, and safety.

Navigational

Channels 13, 67: Available to all vessels for navigation messages (passing, meeting). Also main working channels for locks and drawbridges. Keep messages short and use no more than 1 Watt.

Maritime Control

Channel 17: For communication with state or local government vessels and coast stations regarding regulation, control, boating activities, or assistance.

Digital Selective Calling

Channel 70: Reserved for distress, safety, and general calling using digital selective calling techniques only. Voice communication is prohibited.

Weather

Channels Wx 1 Thru 12: Receive-only channels for NOAA and Canadian weather broadcasts. Cannot transmit on these channels.

Note: These channels may be restricted by region or user type. Consult FCC rules or a radio operator.

Channel Assignments Table (Partial - showing key channels)

(Note: The full channel assignment tables are extensive. A representative sample is included here. The original PDF contains detailed tables for USA, International, and Canada channel maps.)

VHF Marine Channel Assignments (English)

Many channels operate on different frequencies (duplex), while others use a single frequency (simplex). The radio automatically adjusts. New four-digit channels are included for regulatory compliance.

NOTE: Channels are preprogrammed according to international, FCC (USA), and Industry Canada regulations. User alteration of channels or modes (simplex/duplex) is not possible.

Weather Channel Assignments