- This topic has 0 replies, 1 voice, and was last updated 6 days, 5 hours ago by
.
-
Posts
-
VHF marine radio has specific channels assigned to specific purposes by international agreement. Using the correct channel is not just courtesy — it is the law in most jurisdictions and essential for safety.
Channel 16 — International Distress, Safety, and Calling. Every vessel with a VHF radio must monitor Channel 16 at all times while underway. Mayday calls go on Channel 16. Initial contact with another vessel goes on Channel 16, then you agree on a working channel and switch. Canadian and US Coast Guard broadcast safety notices (securite) and weather warnings on Channel 16.
Channel 9 — Recreational calling (Canada/USA). Recreational vessels in North America often use Channel 9 as an alternative hailing channel, reserving Channel 16 for emergencies. Listen on both if your radio allows dual watch.
Channel 22A — US Coast Guard liaison. After initial contact on Channel 16, the USCG directs vessels to Channel 22A for non-emergency communications — float plans, vessel assistance, local notices.
Channel 68, 69, 71, 72 — Non-commercial working channels. These are the standard recreational working channels in North America for vessel-to-vessel communication once contact is established on Channel 16.
Weather channels (WX1–WX3). These receive NOAA Weather Radio continuous broadcasts in the USA. In Canada, use Channel 21B or 83B for Environment Canada marine weather. Your VHF should have a dedicated weather button.
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.
Comments are closed.