Yourbestsail · video

What this video covers

Routine VHF radio communication between vessels requires initiating contact on channel 16, the international hailing and distress frequency.0:38 Before transmitting, operators must verify the radio is set to low power—typically one watt—to minimize interference and ensure the channel is clear of ongoing traffic.2:41 Regulations prohibit routine calls during the first three minutes of every hour and the first three minutes of every half-hour.1:32 Once the called vessel acknowledges, both parties must immediately switch to a designated working channel to conduct the conversation.3:30 Recommended simplex working channels for boat-to-boat communication include 72 and 77, as duplex channels are technically unsuitable for direct vessel-to-vessel contact.6:05 In this demonstration, the vessel Oriol Star contacts Tiburón 2 on channel 16, confirms a working channel, and completes a radio check before returning to channel 16.3:15 Proper procedure dictates that channel 16 serves exclusively for initial hailing and distress, never for extended conversation.5:11

More from Yourbestsail

The function of the centerboardAug 2026Marinas and Yacht Clubs: ProceduresAug 2026The 10 most common mistakes when docking a boatJun 2026Anchoring: wave diffractionJun 2026

From Yourbestsail — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.

The Sailing Directory Newsletter

One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.