Do you have a VHF or SSB or both on your boat? Do you mainly use your radio for receiving weather forecasts, communicating with marinas, emergencies, or for talking with sailing buddies? Are you fully licensed and a stickler for radio protocols, calling "Safe Haven Marina" three times and signing off properly with your call letters? Or are you pretty casual about the whole process preferring to get off and on the air as quickly as possible? Does the use or misuse of the radio by others drive you nuts? Do you always monitor channel 16 when you're out on the water? Share your radio stories here and be sure to vote in the Quick Quiz at the bottom of the home page. (Quiz contributed by Gary Wyngarden)
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Pretty casual; do as I hear others do.
I have a single VHS and no SSB. I also carry a cell phone which covers most of western Lake Erie. The VHS is licensed and I am not always sure of the right protcol. Instructions would help. Can anyone suggest a book? I use the VHS mainly for communicating with marinas and resturants. Also, we regularly listen to the weather channel. Occasionally, boat to boat when traveling in a group.
I have a single VHS and no SSB. I also carry a cell phone which covers most of western Lake Erie. The VHS is licensed and I am not always sure of the right protcol. Instructions would help. Can anyone suggest a book? I use the VHS mainly for communicating with marinas and resturants. Also, we regularly listen to the weather channel. Occasionally, boat to boat when traveling in a group.
Channel 13, and 16
I believe on the Chesapeake Bay and other areas, it is rather important that you listen, as I do to both channels 13, and 16. All freighters, tugboats, and most commercial traffic will be trying to contact you on channel 13. Likewise Drawbridge operators. "16" is your emergency traffic channel and should be left to that task. However, if you want to know what the intentions of that tugboat pushing the barge abt. a mile or so ahead of you is, you had best contact him on 13. He'll tell you that you best alter course, or he'll pass you on one or two whistles, and if you ask, will pass on what traffic is behind him, the weather conditions he's just been thru, etc. Very courteous people these commercial folk. Also importantly, military vessels can be contacted on channel 16, but communications must be very brief, and/or switched to another channel. This is very true around the Norfolk area, where you normally will not get a reply on channel 13. Yes, it is very annoying to hear boaters not using the radio properly, and know when you hear that happening, the improper use indicates they probably don't even know the rules of the road, let alone proper radio usage. This is rather worrysome when you're traversing a narrow waterway and the source of that improper use is running right next to you. Makes you wonder what he/she's going to do next. On the Chesapeake bay, channel 9 is now considered the calling channel, as oppossed to some other areas of the country that still use 16. If you happen to see my Hunter 34 "Scotch and Water" on the Bay, please "holler" out!
I believe on the Chesapeake Bay and other areas, it is rather important that you listen, as I do to both channels 13, and 16. All freighters, tugboats, and most commercial traffic will be trying to contact you on channel 13. Likewise Drawbridge operators. "16" is your emergency traffic channel and should be left to that task. However, if you want to know what the intentions of that tugboat pushing the barge abt. a mile or so ahead of you is, you had best contact him on 13. He'll tell you that you best alter course, or he'll pass you on one or two whistles, and if you ask, will pass on what traffic is behind him, the weather conditions he's just been thru, etc. Very courteous people these commercial folk. Also importantly, military vessels can be contacted on channel 16, but communications must be very brief, and/or switched to another channel. This is very true around the Norfolk area, where you normally will not get a reply on channel 13. Yes, it is very annoying to hear boaters not using the radio properly, and know when you hear that happening, the improper use indicates they probably don't even know the rules of the road, let alone proper radio usage. This is rather worrysome when you're traversing a narrow waterway and the source of that improper use is running right next to you. Makes you wonder what he/she's going to do next. On the Chesapeake bay, channel 9 is now considered the calling channel, as oppossed to some other areas of the country that still use 16. If you happen to see my Hunter 34 "Scotch and Water" on the Bay, please "holler" out!
Attachments
Capt Terry, In Florida bridges monitor 9 and 16...
with 9 being the primary channel for bridge ops. I've tried to raise tug traffic on the St. Johns River on 13 with varying degrees of success. The big Crowley tugs have always responded but the local tugs and Moran tugs have not. As for the Navy we don't have to worry about them locally, you'll never get past their USCG escorts to get in their way!
with 9 being the primary channel for bridge ops. I've tried to raise tug traffic on the St. Johns River on 13 with varying degrees of success. The big Crowley tugs have always responded but the local tugs and Moran tugs have not. As for the Navy we don't have to worry about them locally, you'll never get past their USCG escorts to get in their way!
Middle of the Road
We always monitor channel 16 and 9 when underway, check the weax channel prior to departure and shift to the USCG working channel 22 for updates when announced on 16. We did pay the extra money and fill out the forms for an FCC license for our radio and generally sign off with our call sign letters when ending a conversation (i.e after requesting bridge opening or talking to commercial traffic). We are very careful about using a proper working channel for recreational conversations with our fellow boaters; and yes I do get very annoyed by boaters who use 16 like their cell phone. Thanks Kevin
We always monitor channel 16 and 9 when underway, check the weax channel prior to departure and shift to the USCG working channel 22 for updates when announced on 16. We did pay the extra money and fill out the forms for an FCC license for our radio and generally sign off with our call sign letters when ending a conversation (i.e after requesting bridge opening or talking to commercial traffic). We are very careful about using a proper working channel for recreational conversations with our fellow boaters; and yes I do get very annoyed by boaters who use 16 like their cell phone. Thanks Kevin
Kind of Laid Back
I've been a ham operator for a lot of years. Operating procedures are very similar. One thing I've learned is to listen a lot and only interrupt if I really have something to contribute. I use the hand held VHF mostly. I do have a base station at the nav station, but I am usually at the wheel. I may chuckle at some oher operatoprs, but generally it does not bother me, unless it impinges on safety for someone afloat.I have not used it boat-to-boat much, except when someone calls adnd asks for assistance. I have called my marina or a new marina I am going into. However afdter being a ham, the radio is more of a tool than a novelty. Camw WA3YOH
I've been a ham operator for a lot of years. Operating procedures are very similar. One thing I've learned is to listen a lot and only interrupt if I really have something to contribute. I use the hand held VHF mostly. I do have a base station at the nav station, but I am usually at the wheel. I may chuckle at some oher operatoprs, but generally it does not bother me, unless it impinges on safety for someone afloat.I have not used it boat-to-boat much, except when someone calls adnd asks for assistance. I have called my marina or a new marina I am going into. However afdter being a ham, the radio is more of a tool than a novelty. Camw WA3YOH
I have an amature radio license (general class) but am not bothered by others use/misuse of the radio. Life is too short and sailing is too good to let others' habits interefere with my good time out on the water. I have to pay enough attention to protocol in my land life, I want to loosen up out on the water,(while at the same time being safe!)
VHF Use
Coming from an aviation background, I think that VHF radio trafic should be done with consideration. Although sailboat traffic does not move as fast as aviation (where a few minutes of not getting contact can mean a lot of distance), in aviation we also do not monitor emergency frequencies (at least not in GA over the states). Consequently, the only traffic you have to listen to is generally relevant to you, where you are, and what is around you. In the marine environment, we do listen to one or more frequencies for the benefit and safety of others. Having to listen to someones inane chatter is an unreasonable intrusion into the peace of sailing, and has caused me to turn the VHF down. Making everyone else's day a little less safe. Moreover, it is unsafe...while they are doing their 3 minute mic down chat, someone may be waiting to report a fire onboard. My preference is that everyone use it correctly, change channels for the chat. Keep it brief and effective. Dan Jonas (S/V Feije)
Coming from an aviation background, I think that VHF radio trafic should be done with consideration. Although sailboat traffic does not move as fast as aviation (where a few minutes of not getting contact can mean a lot of distance), in aviation we also do not monitor emergency frequencies (at least not in GA over the states). Consequently, the only traffic you have to listen to is generally relevant to you, where you are, and what is around you. In the marine environment, we do listen to one or more frequencies for the benefit and safety of others. Having to listen to someones inane chatter is an unreasonable intrusion into the peace of sailing, and has caused me to turn the VHF down. Making everyone else's day a little less safe. Moreover, it is unsafe...while they are doing their 3 minute mic down chat, someone may be waiting to report a fire onboard. My preference is that everyone use it correctly, change channels for the chat. Keep it brief and effective. Dan Jonas (S/V Feije)
VHF Licenses
For recreational vessels, operating in US waters, there is no longer any requirement to get a FCC License for VHF, RADAR, or an EPIRB. The mandatory Licensing was discontinued in April 1997. However, if you have a SSB radio, or are sailing in Foreign waters you must have the FCC License. In addition, if sailing in Foreign waters/ports, anyone operating the VHF must also have a FCC Operators Permit in additon to the Ship's Station License. The FCC has a great website with all the Radio Rules and regulations: www.fcc.gov (I think that's it?) The USCGAUX, US Power Squadrons, and other like groups all include Radio basics in their textbooks. There at least used to be a FCC book with all the rules. Chapmans is good too!
For recreational vessels, operating in US waters, there is no longer any requirement to get a FCC License for VHF, RADAR, or an EPIRB. The mandatory Licensing was discontinued in April 1997. However, if you have a SSB radio, or are sailing in Foreign waters you must have the FCC License. In addition, if sailing in Foreign waters/ports, anyone operating the VHF must also have a FCC Operators Permit in additon to the Ship's Station License. The FCC has a great website with all the Radio Rules and regulations: www.fcc.gov (I think that's it?) The USCGAUX, US Power Squadrons, and other like groups all include Radio basics in their textbooks. There at least used to be a FCC book with all the rules. Chapmans is good too!
VHF: Too many people on too little bandwidth
VHF requires all users to have a clue that they're not alone. If everyone just did what they wanted, NOTHING would work for anyone! My experience has been that most boaters are considerate and use VHF in a responsible way. The worst offenders on the Chesapeake are unsupervised children who get on CH16 and go wild. I've heard that a LOT! Parents; don't think for one moment that the kid's quiet time down below is not linked to some mischief! ;-) I personally use VHF for wx and contacting marinas primarily. It's a great resource that MUST be used responsibly, or the airtime will not be there when we need it.
VHF requires all users to have a clue that they're not alone. If everyone just did what they wanted, NOTHING would work for anyone! My experience has been that most boaters are considerate and use VHF in a responsible way. The worst offenders on the Chesapeake are unsupervised children who get on CH16 and go wild. I've heard that a LOT! Parents; don't think for one moment that the kid's quiet time down below is not linked to some mischief! ;-) I personally use VHF for wx and contacting marinas primarily. It's a great resource that MUST be used responsibly, or the airtime will not be there when we need it.
It is not illegal to request a radio check, try using another frequency first, if no contact is made, listen first, use channel 16 and switch to another channel. Channel 16 (156.800 Mhz) VHF or 2182 Khz (SSB), are for Distress and calling frequency only. Distress, urgency, safety and in this order only a traffic for emergency should be done. Everything else is chat-chat and should be switch to an appropiate non-commercial working frequency. The most important practice that a radio operator must learn is to monitor the channel before transmitting. By doing this, he/she reduces the posibility of interfering with others stations which may be using the channel. Station and operators licenses are no longer required if you travel less than 20 nautical miles offshore. For more information on this topic read the Code of Federal regulation 47 Part 80.
VHF has a purpose
VHF radio has a very important function for boaters, beyond socializing. The available bandwidth needs to be reserved for proper usage and proper procedures need to be followed to maximize the benefit to all. As a ham operator and a former pilot as well as a lifetime sailor, I know there are always those who will abuse any radio privilege, but Marine VHF can save lives if it is available when you need it. Socialize on CB or cell phone, and leave VHF for what it is intended.
VHF radio has a very important function for boaters, beyond socializing. The available bandwidth needs to be reserved for proper usage and proper procedures need to be followed to maximize the benefit to all. As a ham operator and a former pilot as well as a lifetime sailor, I know there are always those who will abuse any radio privilege, but Marine VHF can save lives if it is available when you need it. Socialize on CB or cell phone, and leave VHF for what it is intended.
MORE WIND, LESS SHOOTING THE BREEZE
I USE THE VHF ONLY FOR WEATHER REPORTS AND UPDATES AND CG,CH 16 IF NEED BE. IF I MUST CALL A MARINA FOR ANY REASON I WILL USE MY CELL PHONE. I PREFER THE QUIET AS TO RADIO CHATTER. I DO BELIEVE THOUGH THAT ANYONE USING THE RADIO SHOULD BE SHORT, TO THE POINT, AND PROPER RADIO PROCEDURES FOLLOWED.
I USE THE VHF ONLY FOR WEATHER REPORTS AND UPDATES AND CG,CH 16 IF NEED BE. IF I MUST CALL A MARINA FOR ANY REASON I WILL USE MY CELL PHONE. I PREFER THE QUIET AS TO RADIO CHATTER. I DO BELIEVE THOUGH THAT ANYONE USING THE RADIO SHOULD BE SHORT, TO THE POINT, AND PROPER RADIO PROCEDURES FOLLOWED.
VHF Radio
I carry two VHF radios on board, (Permanant and handheld) monitor 16, use both to hail other boaters or marinas, or relate pon pon or securite' calls. I am rather strict in its use, have had my license (until no longer required) and follow prescribed protocol for identifiying myself, etc. I do get "cheesed" when others don't follow proper procedure, ie think they're on a CB radio.
I carry two VHF radios on board, (Permanant and handheld) monitor 16, use both to hail other boaters or marinas, or relate pon pon or securite' calls. I am rather strict in its use, have had my license (until no longer required) and follow prescribed protocol for identifiying myself, etc. I do get "cheesed" when others don't follow proper procedure, ie think they're on a CB radio.
Better than 911
I have only VHF as there is no need for anything else on the Great Lakes and I monitor channel 16 religiously. It is scanned along with a weather channel and one other channel that friends typically use as a hailing channel. I am pretty much a stickler for protocol as well as a firm believer in keeping 16 free of all but emergency traffic. Even when talking with buddies, if we are relatively close to each other, we use the small FRS radios for idle chatter. I did want to say that there is an alarming trend to use cell phones for everything (calling home to say I will be in late, calling others, calling for help). Someone wrote an article about a year ago on this (can not remember who), but they brought up a good point. 911 will get to the CG and/or local marine police, etc.. What it will not get is other boaters that could help or will not allow the CG to locate you by your radio signal. Use the radio for hailing, weather and emergencies but keep all other chatter to a minimum. For those of you who are sailing close together as in a flotilla, try FRS, its relatively free of other traffic as range is limited.
I have only VHF as there is no need for anything else on the Great Lakes and I monitor channel 16 religiously. It is scanned along with a weather channel and one other channel that friends typically use as a hailing channel. I am pretty much a stickler for protocol as well as a firm believer in keeping 16 free of all but emergency traffic. Even when talking with buddies, if we are relatively close to each other, we use the small FRS radios for idle chatter. I did want to say that there is an alarming trend to use cell phones for everything (calling home to say I will be in late, calling others, calling for help). Someone wrote an article about a year ago on this (can not remember who), but they brought up a good point. 911 will get to the CG and/or local marine police, etc.. What it will not get is other boaters that could help or will not allow the CG to locate you by your radio signal. Use the radio for hailing, weather and emergencies but keep all other chatter to a minimum. For those of you who are sailing close together as in a flotilla, try FRS, its relatively free of other traffic as range is limited.
Navy on Ch 13, 14, 16, update to prev memo
Just got an e-mail from my Nephew, who teaches navigation in the Navy, that he contacted Norfolk. He indicates that in the Chesapeake Bay, the Navy uses channels 14, and 16. After they leave the demarcation line, they switch to Channels 13, and 16. Not sure why in the Bay they use channel 14, as almost all commercial traffic use Ch. 13. Just wanted to add to my previous memo. It's interesting all the responses received that in different parts of the country, the operation procedures are as versified as they are. By the sounds of it, a lot of areas continue an old practice and don't really practice VHF use by the rules specified. This is understandable, unfortunately. Education is very expensive, and the CG has very few funds to do so. One thing that should really be pushed, is the contact of Marinas for slip assignments, and haul outs, fuel, etc, etc, be made on other channels than 16. Many marina's have moved off 16, but a lot still believe it is a calling channel. Unfortunately the boater has no choice but to use 16 when the marina doesn't make the changes necessary. Great activity, this topic!!!!! regards Capt T.
Just got an e-mail from my Nephew, who teaches navigation in the Navy, that he contacted Norfolk. He indicates that in the Chesapeake Bay, the Navy uses channels 14, and 16. After they leave the demarcation line, they switch to Channels 13, and 16. Not sure why in the Bay they use channel 14, as almost all commercial traffic use Ch. 13. Just wanted to add to my previous memo. It's interesting all the responses received that in different parts of the country, the operation procedures are as versified as they are. By the sounds of it, a lot of areas continue an old practice and don't really practice VHF use by the rules specified. This is understandable, unfortunately. Education is very expensive, and the CG has very few funds to do so. One thing that should really be pushed, is the contact of Marinas for slip assignments, and haul outs, fuel, etc, etc, be made on other channels than 16. Many marina's have moved off 16, but a lot still believe it is a calling channel. Unfortunately the boater has no choice but to use 16 when the marina doesn't make the changes necessary. Great activity, this topic!!!!! regards Capt T.
Traffic Control
We sail on inland rivers and lakes, and mix-it-up with a lot of Tow boat and Barge traffic. The prudent sailor knows it takes from half a mile to to a couple of miles to stop those big, bad, boys. I use my VHF to communicate with them, as well as calling marinas and getting weather reports. I monitor chanels 9, 13, and 16 with 16 priority. It buggs me no-end to hear CB terminology, technique, and stupidity used on VHF. Like many things in life, I live with it; however, I do believe any operator should be trained in proper technique before using the VHF or SSB. Happy Sailing, Ya'll, John, S/v Doxology
We sail on inland rivers and lakes, and mix-it-up with a lot of Tow boat and Barge traffic. The prudent sailor knows it takes from half a mile to to a couple of miles to stop those big, bad, boys. I use my VHF to communicate with them, as well as calling marinas and getting weather reports. I monitor chanels 9, 13, and 16 with 16 priority. It buggs me no-end to hear CB terminology, technique, and stupidity used on VHF. Like many things in life, I live with it; however, I do believe any operator should be trained in proper technique before using the VHF or SSB. Happy Sailing, Ya'll, John, S/v Doxology
Proper Protocol
We are licensed for VHF and observe proper protocol. Wish everone did. There is way too much chatter. Too many people use the 25 watt output when they only need the 1 watt between boat use. The radio is used primarily for communicating with marinas and other boats as necessary. Channel 16 is monitored while under way.
We are licensed for VHF and observe proper protocol. Wish everone did. There is way too much chatter. Too many people use the 25 watt output when they only need the 1 watt between boat use. The radio is used primarily for communicating with marinas and other boats as necessary. Channel 16 is monitored while under way.
What's this either VHF or SSB?
Depending on where one is sailing, it may well be important to have both a VHF rig and an HF SSB rig. I believe, though that folks should accept their radios as tools for safety first, and as facilitators for socializing secondarily - and respect that frequencies within various bands are used for specific purposes which require usage protocols needing to be respected. For information about radio communication equipment, usage, and amateur radio, folks might be interested in obtaining their amateur radio license which, when granted, allows them access and usage on several radio frequency bands.
Depending on where one is sailing, it may well be important to have both a VHF rig and an HF SSB rig. I believe, though that folks should accept their radios as tools for safety first, and as facilitators for socializing secondarily - and respect that frequencies within various bands are used for specific purposes which require usage protocols needing to be respected. For information about radio communication equipment, usage, and amateur radio, folks might be interested in obtaining their amateur radio license which, when granted, allows them access and usage on several radio frequency bands.
Get the "other" license
We have a dual watch VHF and use it for its intended purpose. Always have a cellular on board as well. Normally use the cellular except when there's no signal (sometimes happens in Puget Sound waters...but not often). Am in the process of studying for my Ham license now. If you're into radios and communication it makes more sense to join with others who share the same interest. VHF is just not the place for that. Final note: If you've got the radio for God's sake monitor it when you're out. If not for yourself then do it for the other guy. Sailors are known for their willingness to help others in distress. We have a legacy to uphold! Smooth Sailing Everyone...
We have a dual watch VHF and use it for its intended purpose. Always have a cellular on board as well. Normally use the cellular except when there's no signal (sometimes happens in Puget Sound waters...but not often). Am in the process of studying for my Ham license now. If you're into radios and communication it makes more sense to join with others who share the same interest. VHF is just not the place for that. Final note: If you've got the radio for God's sake monitor it when you're out. If not for yourself then do it for the other guy. Sailors are known for their willingness to help others in distress. We have a legacy to uphold! Smooth Sailing Everyone...
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