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VHF Marine
Channel Assignments
VHF Marine Channel Assignments
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Three (3) sets of VHF channels have been established for marine use in the U.S.A.,
Canada and the rest of the world (International). Most of the channels are the same
for all three (3) maps, but there are definite differences (see table on pages 16-23).
Your radio has all three (3) maps built into it and will operate correctly in whichever
area you choose.
The following is a brief outline of the channel assignments in the U.S.A.
Channel Map.
Distress, Safety and Calling
Channel 16
Getting the attention of another station (calling) or in emergencies
(distress and safety).
Calling
Channel 9
General purpose (non-emergency) calling by non-commercial vessels.
Recreational boaters are urged to use this channel to reduce congestion
on Channel 16.
Intership Safety
Channel 6
Ship-to-ship safety messages and for search and rescue messages to
Coast Guard ships and aircraft.
Coast Guard Liaison (U.S and Canadian)
Channel 22A
To talk to the Coast Guard (non-emergency) after making contact on Channel 16.
Non-Commercial
Channels 68*, 69, 71, 72, 78A, 79A*, 80A*
Working channels for small vessels. Messages must be about needs of the
vessel, such as fishing reports, berthing and rendezvous. Use Channel 72 only
for ship-to-ship messages.
Commercial
Channels 1A, 7A, 8, 9, 10, 11, 18A, 19A, 63A, 67, 72, 79A, 80A, 88A*
Working channels for working ships only. Messages must be about business or
needs of the ship. Use Channels 8, 67, 72 and 88A only for ship-to-ship messages.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
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