VHF Recommendations

I looked at that but I have a gps in my FF and a handheld gps if I was really worried about it so I ruled that out of needs for me.  The HX400 looked like it had a much bigger battery for not that much $$ but I didn't need the extra comm features for land based, etc.  That's probably what I would have bought for myself just for the battery.  Glad to hear the HX870 is working that long on batteries.  I'll have to stress test mine and report.  Battery life and quick charge are a big deal to me.

iCom M88
Small (but good sound), durable, powerful, great battery life

Consider a unit that has built-in GPS and DSC features.  Such a unit will have a red "panic button" that automatically sends a distress signal which includes your GPS position.   That can be a lifesaver in an emergency. 

An example is the Standard Horizon HX870.  It floats and has an emergency strobe light built in.  It also has a separate battery tray for AAA batteries, meaning you can carry spares and never run out of power. 

At $249 it's not cheap.  One downside is it is on the large side due to the floating feature.