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RADIO/DISTRESS
CHANNELS




Here are most of the radio channels if you need them:

  • Channel 06: Used for ship-to-ship messages and search messages (also ships and aircrafts of the Coast Guard).
  • Channel 09: The Coast Guard uses this channel for broadcasts and storm warnings. It is also a calling channel for recreational boaters.
  • Channels 13 & 67: These channels are available to everyone, but only used for ship navigation.
  • Channels 16: This channel is the most important channel, it is ONLY for distress and safety calling.  Always maintain a listening watch!!!
  • Channels 21A, 23A, & 83A: For U.S. Coast Guard use only.
  • Channel 22A: The U.S. Coast Guard and Marines use this channel for urgent marine information, broadcasts, and storm warnings
  • Channels 24,25,26,27,28,84,85,86,& 87: You use these channels to call the marine operator at the public station. You can make or receive calls on shore, but you may be charged.
  • Channel 70: You can use this channel for distress, safety, or general calls using only the digital selective calling (DSC).


  • Three things your distress call MUST have are:
  • the signal MAYDAY spoken three time,
  • the words THIS IS...,
  • the call sign,  (if call sign is not assigned, use the vessel number or name) of the vessel in distress, spoken three times.