Gary
To my knowledge the only dedicated R/C set for model boats is the Robbe Futaba Navy F14/16/18 range. It is very flexible with its add-on modules, encoders and decoders, but it can get very expensive if you fit them all! Check out Westbourne Models' website for details of this set.
Most modellers use a standard 6 channel aircraft Tx* for their boats, perhaps putting a self-centering spring on the throttle stick instead of a ratchet. The fifth and sixth channels can be used to operate on-board switches for other functions like lights, fire-pumps, bells and whistles, but be aware that those Tx channels which are controlled by simple ON/OFF switches are very limiting (e.g. as fitted to the otherwise very good Futaba 2.4GHz set). Better get a Tx with at least one of the additional functions controlled by a lever, 3-position switch or rotary knob. If you're just starting out then a popular set is the Futaba 6EXA 40 MHz FM. The Hitech Laser 6 40 MHz is also a good buy. Avoid any Tx which has been designed expressly for model helicopter use, however; as a beginner you want the least amount of hassle you can get!
*Whatever you choose be aware that 35 MHz model aircraft sets are NOT legal for use in model boats in the UK; you need either 40 MHz or 2.4GHz. 27 MHz is still legal but I haven't seen a new 4 or 6 channel set on this frequency advertised for donkey's years.
FLJ
