Private recreational boaters are loosely regulated in Malaysia on the carriage of communication device. Therefore, in addition to mobile telephones, the boaters are carrying communication devices that suit their use and financial ability. The type of communication device carried should match with area operated by the boaters to ensure communication with people at shore is established and ensure their safety at sea. However, due to budget limitations, most recreational boaters do not carry the communication device that match with their boating area. The communication device should be capable of performing a two-way communication and real-time position information sharing. A typical mobile telephone has a limited coverage at sea and cannot be used after a certain distance from shore. This study aims to identify communication devices currently used by boaters in Malaysia, identify factors to select the communication device and suggest the most suitable communication device for boaters in Malaysia beyond the coverage of mobile telephones. The methodology used in the research was to identify factors on selection of communication device for boaters by conducting a literature review and expert’s opinion. Then a survey was conducted to verify the factors. Finally, the communication devices were rated based on the identified factors using a binary rating system. Survey results had identified three devices currently used by boaters in Malaysia, namely mobile telephone, VHF radio, and satellite messaging device. The survey results had verified six factors, namely coverage, two-way communication, distress signal, portability, waterproof, and unit cost (price). This study suggests the satellite messaging device Garmin inReach Mini to recreational boaters in Malaysia.