What to Say on a Marine VHF Radio

Mayday Call Checklist – What to Say on a Marine VHF Radio

ByMarine Safety Guide

Mayday Call Checklist

Nobody ever expects to make a MAYDAY call, but if the worst happens, knowing exactly what to say can save valuable time.

Whether you’re sailing, fishing or cruising, it’s a good idea to keep a printed MAYDAY checklist beside your VHF radio. In an emergency it’s easy to forget important details, especially under pressure.

That’s why we’ve created a free printable crib sheet you can copy and paste. Laminate it, put it next to the VHF! The RYA provide a guide, I think there is too much info so I kept it more simple below, here is your simple Mayday Call checklist. If you are wondering about VHF’s and what you might need, we have a specific guide with our favourite VHF options available to buy on Amazon, Click here to review

When Should You Make a MAYDAY Call?

A MAYDAY call should only be used when there is grave and imminent danger to your vessel or the people on board.

Examples include:

  • Fire onboard
  • Sinking or flooding
  • Collision
  • Capsize
  • Man overboard where life is at immediate risk
  • Serious medical emergency
  • Any situation where lives are in danger

If the situation is urgent but not immediately life-threatening, a PAN PAN call may be more appropriate.

What to Say

Speak slowly and clearly.

The basic format is:

MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY

THIS IS (Vessel name (repeat three times))

Call sign or MMSI (if known)

Your position

Nature of the emergency

Assistance required

Number of people on board

Any other useful information

Stay on Channel 16 unless instructed to change channels by the Coastguard or another rescue authority.

Practical Tips

✔ Keep your GPS switched on so you always know your position.

✔ If your VHF has DSC (Digital Selective Calling), send a DSC distress alert first if time allows.

✔ Speak slowly—there’s no need to rush.

✔ Make sure everyone who regularly uses the boat knows where the radio is and how to use it.

✔ Print the crib sheet above, laminate and keep it beside your VHF.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully you’ll never need to make a MAYDAY call. However, taking five minutes to understand the correct procedure—and keeping a printed reminder beside your VHF—could make a real difference if an emergency ever occurs.

Preparation is one of the simplest and most effective safety measures you can take before heading out on the water.

Similar Posts