[Andrew Richardson]

Hi Gary.  I am also quite new and remember asking this question last year.

I bought the Cobra HH600.  I comes with a battery tray that takes AA batteries.  I pack the tray and AA batteries in a waterproof bag, and put it away safe only to be used in an emergency.

Then I use my radio, GPS, etc when paddling without as much worry about running out of battery when I need it.