how to use a marine VHF radio

How to Use a Marine VHF Radio

ByMarine Safety Guide

How to Use a Marine VHF Radio — A Practical Guide

Every VHF radio is slightly different. Fixed sets and handhelds work on the same principle but the controls vary between manufacturers. The good news is once you understand the basics, you can pick up any marine VHF and work it out. Here is how.

Turning It On and Basic Controls

On most radios — turn the power knob, usually a twist of the same knob that controls volume. Turn it clockwise. The radio comes on. Set the volume to a comfortable level.

Squelch is the next control to find. Squelch filters out background static — turn it up until the static disappears, then back slightly so you are not missing weak signals. Too high and you will miss calls. Too low and you get constant static. Adjust it and then leave it alone.

Find the channel selector — usually a rotary knob or up and down buttons. Navigate to the channel you need. Always check the number on the screen before you transmit. Accidentally transmitting on the wrong channel is one of the most common mistakes and something I have seen happen many times — including on Channel 16 when people meant to be on a working channel.

How to Make a Call — Step by Step

This is the procedure and it is straightforward. Before you do anything — check the channel is clear. Listen for a few seconds. If someone else is talking, wait.

Press and hold the transmit button — usually on the side of the handset or a separate button on a fixed set. Speak clearly and at a normal pace. Do not rush.

The calling procedure:

  • State who you are calling — twice. Then your vessel name — once.

For example: “Eastbourne Marina, Eastbourne Marina — this is Yacht Albatross.”

  • Release the transmit button and listen for a response.
  • When they reply and ask you to move to a working channel — confirm the channel number back to them. This is important. Always repeat the channel number so both parties are on the same one before you move.
  • When you have finished transmitting — say “Over” to indicate you are waiting for a response. When the conversation is completely finished — say “Out” or “Standing by on 16” to indicate you are done and returning to monitor Channel 16.
  • Be polite. Be brief. Do not waste the channel. Help them to be as efficient and polite as possible. Make friends, not enemies

Channel 16 — The Most Important Channel

Channel 16 is the international distress, safety, and calling channel. It is monitored continuously by HM Coastguard. It is where you call for help. It is where you make a Mayday.

Do not use Channel 16 for routine calls or general chat. Hail on 16, get a working channel, move there for the conversation.

Before you transmit anything — always look at the screen and confirm which channel you are on. Always.

Common Mistakes — And How to Avoid Them

  • Wrong channel — look at the screen before every transmission. No exceptions.
  • Not pressing the transmit button properly before speaking — the first word gets cut off. Press, pause for half a second, then speak.
  • Squelch too high — you are missing calls. Adjust it properly at the start of every passage.
  • Talking too fast — slow down. Speak clearly. The person on the other end may be in rough conditions, half asleep on watch, or dealing with background noise.
  • Not confirming the working channel — always repeat the channel number back before you switch.
  • Leaving the radio on the wrong channel — always return to Channel 16 when a conversation is finished.

Before You Pick Up the Handset

  • Look at the screen. What channel are you on? Is it clear?
  • Press the button. Pause. Then speak.
  • State who you are calling twice, your vessel name once. Be clear. Be brief. Be polite.

FAQs

Do I need a licence to use a VHF radio?
Yes. In the UK you need a Ship Radio Licence for the vessel and a Short Range Certificate as the operator. Both are straightforward to obtain — the SRC is a one-day course.

What is the difference between a fixed and handheld VHF?
A fixed radio is wired to the vessel, has higher power output, and connects to GPS for DSC functionality. A handheld is portable and useful as a backup or for communication in the cockpit. Have both if you can.

What channel do marinas usually use?
Most UK marinas use Channel 80. Some use 37 or others — check locally before you arrive. Hail on 16 if in doubt and they will direct you.

The information in this article is for general guidance only. For full VHF radio procedures always refer to current RYA guidance and OFCOM licensing requirements. marinesafetyguide.com participates in affiliate programmes including Amazon Associates and the Awin network and may earn a small commission on purchases made through links on this site, at no extra cost to you.

Similar Posts