Ed wrote:
While I agree with others that it would be an excellent idea to get
the local amateur radio organization to provide (free) communications
for your regatta, I wonder why you hadn't also considered the FRS
radio system? No license, cheap equipment, and should be able to
provide your communications requirements for a regatta, assuming you
don't have hills or other obstructions to talk past.

I have considered FRS, but testing suggests that its range is insufficient.
We will need to communicate over a range of up to 2-3 miles. Even though
the conditions are very good, I don't think FRS can do it, but I would be
delighted to be wrong.

Mitch