Table of Contents
Advertisement
Voice Calling
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
Voice Calling
To call another vessel or shore installation (e.g, lock or bridge tender):
Make sure the radio is On.
I
Make sure you are in standby listening mode on Channel 16. Make sure
I
Channel 16 is not in use.
When the channel is open (quiet), press the Talk button and call a vessel.
I
Hold the radio or microphone several inches from your face and speak
clearly and distinctly in a normal voice tone. Say "name or station being
called," "THIS IS [your vessel name or call sign]."
Once contact is made, you must leave Channel 16 and go to another working
I
channel. See channel listing on page 54.
For Example
The vessel Corsair is calling the vessel Vagabond:
Corsair: "Vagabond, this is Corsair. Over."
Vagabond: "Please switch and answer on Channel 68 (or any proper working
channel). Over."
Corsair: "Switching to Channel 68. Over."
46 English
Voice Calling
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
If the other does not respond, wait two (2) minutes and repeat. You are permitted
I
•
to attempt contact three (3) times, two (2) minutes apart. If you still have not
made contact, wait 15 minutes before trying again.
After communications are completed, each vessel must sign off with its call
I
sign or vessel name and the word "out" and return to Channel 16.
NOTE
For best sound quality at the station you are calling, hold the microphone on
the front of the radio at least 2 in. (51 mm) from your mouth and slightly off to
one (1) side. Speak in a normal tone of voice.
NOTE
"Over and Out"
The most commonly misused procedure words are "over and out" within the
same transmission. "Over" means you expect a reply. "Out" means you are
finished and do not expect a reply.
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
47
Advertisement
Table of Contents
