Key VHF Channels

VHF marine radio has dozens of channels, but a handful do 95% of the work. Know these cold.

Channel 16 — The Universal Channel

Distress, Safety, and Calling. All vessels must monitor Channel 16 when underway. This is where you send a MAYDAY, where the coast guard broadcasts weather warnings and safety messages, and where you hail another vessel before switching to a working channel.

Never hold a conversation on Channel 16 — use it to make contact, then move to a working channel.

Channel 70 — DSC Only

Digital Selective Calling. Channel 70 is reserved exclusively for digital DSC distress calls. Voice transmissions on Channel 70 are prohibited. Your radio handles this automatically when you press the distress button.

Channel 22A — USCG Working Channel

After initial contact on Channel 16, the coast guard will typically direct you to Channel 22A for the working conversation. This is the primary USCG-to-recreational-boater working channel in U.S. waters.

Channel 13 — Bridge-to-Bridge

Low power (1 watt), used for navigation safety communications on inland waterways. Commercial vessels 20+ meters must monitor it. Use it to call drawbridge operators and to communicate with commercial traffic in channels and rivers.

Channel 9 — Recreational Hailing

An alternative to Channel 16 for hailing marinas and other recreational boats. Many marinas monitor both 9 and 16. After contact, switch to a working channel.

Working Channels

After hailing on 16 or 9, move to a working channel: 68, 69, 71, 72, or 78A are common recreational working channels. Don't hold conversations on the calling channels.

Weather Channels (WX)

WX1 through WX3 broadcast continuous NOAA weather forecasts for your area. Monitor these before and during any passage.