Using a marine radio is not much more complicated than talking on a telephone, however in United States waters federal regulations designate the usage of the radio’s many channels, and radio etiquette defines how to use the radio for the enjoyment and safety of everyone on the water.
Channel 16
According to the US Coast Guard, recreational boats under 65.6 feet (20 meters) are not required to carry a VHF radio, but any boat equipped with a marine radio is required to have the radio on, and tuned to channel 16 when underway. This channel is monitored by the US and Canadian Coast Guard 24-hours a day. Recreational boaters may use the channel to hail other boats or stations, to send distress calls and to report hazardous conditions. Both the US and Canadian Coast Guard broadcast alerts about boaters needing assistance, navigational hazards, and extreme weather conditions.
All communications on channel 16 should be very brief and to the point. If more than a sentence or two is required, then the radio user must switch to a working channel before continuing.
Channel 9
This channel was established by the US Federal Communication Commission to help alleviate radio traffic on channel 16. Recreational boaters can use this channel to hail each other, and request radio checks (radio checks should never be done on channel 16). On inland waters, this channel is frequently monitored by draw bridge operators, so boats that need a bridge opened should try channel 9 first.
Channel 13
Used for ship to ship communications on commercial vessels, channel 13 is rarely used by recreational boaters. However, when entering a narrow passage or busy harbor, a recreational boater may wish to communicate with a large vessel to clarify the larger vessel's intentions. When attempting to contact a ship, first try channel 16. If there is no response, switch to channel 13 and try again.
Working Channels
After making contact with another boat or station on channel 16, the boater should switch to a non-commercial, working channel before continuing the conversation. These channels are 68, 69, 71, 78A, and 79. Working channels can be used for things like discussing a rendezvous point with another boater, contacting boat repair shops, or arranging for a slip space in a marina.
Radio Etiquette
Using a marine radio is as easy as talking on a telephone, but unlike the phone, it is no place for chattiness. Radio transmissions are public, and many boaters are listening and vying for the same airwaves. All conversations should be essential, brief and to the point.
Read More about VHF Radio Use:
Specialized Marine Radio Terms
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