VHF Marine Radio Channels: Complete Guide
The practical channel map for recreational boating: what to monitor, what to avoid, and how to use Channel 16, DSC Channel 70, Channel 9, Channel 13, Coast Guard 22A, and NOAA Weather (WX) correctly. Also explains common radio terms like Class D DSC, MMSI, integrated GPS, and NMEA 2000 / NMEA 0183.
Informational only. Always follow official Coast Guard regulations, NOAA weather advisories, and manufacturer instructions. In emergencies, contact the Coast Guard on VHF Channel 16 or call 911.
Quick Channel Cheat Sheet
Use this as your quick reference. Monitor the right things, keep Channel 16 clean, and move to working channels fast.
| Channel | Primary use | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| 16 | Distress / safety / calling | Monitor; hail; switch off immediately for conversation |
| 70 | DSC (data-only) | Send DSC distress; follow with voice Mayday on 16 |
| 9 | Secondary calling (regional) | Use where common; then move to a working channel |
| 13 | Bridge-to-bridge navigation | Passing arrangements near ships/bridges/traffic lanes |
| 22A | Coast Guard liaison | Often used after initial contact on 16 |
| 68/69/71/72 | Working channels | Routine comms; keep it short and professional |
| WX1–WX10 | NOAA Weather Radio | Scan for strongest local transmitter; monitor warnings |
Best practice: Use 16 to make contact, then immediately switch to a working channel (68/69/71/72).
Fast “What do I do?”
- Emergency: Mayday on 16 (DSC distress on 70 first if available).
- Hailing: Call on 16 (or 9 where used), then switch to 68/69/71/72.
- Commercial traffic nearby: Monitor 13.
- Coast Guard follow-up: Expect 22A.
- Weather: Scan WX1–WX10 and dual-watch with 16 if possible.
Terms you’ll see on radios
- MMSI: Your radio’s ID for DSC.
- Class D DSC: Supports DSC calling/distress.
- Integrated GPS: Sends position with DSC.
- NMEA 2000 / 0183: How GPS/AIS data gets shared.
Critical safety and calling channels
Channel 16 — Distress, safety & calling
- Monitor 16 whenever your VHF is on.
- Use 16 to hail, then switch to a working channel.
- Use 16 for Mayday / Pan-Pan / Securité voice calls.
- Do not hold conversations on 16.
Channel 70 — DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
DSC is data-only. The distress button sends an automated alert with your MMSI and, if your radio has GPS (built-in or connected), your position. After DSC, you still make a voice Mayday on Channel 16.
- Program a valid MMSI.
- Confirm your GPS feed works (often via NMEA 2000 or NMEA 0183).
- If supported, practice a DSC test call with your equipment.
Channel 9 — Secondary calling (regional)
Some areas use 9 to reduce congestion on 16. Local practice varies—listen first and follow regional norms.
Need the emergency scripts? See Mayday / Pan-Pan / Securité.
Navigation, Coast Guard, and working channels
Channel 13 — Bridge-to-bridge
Used for navigation safety and passing arrangements near ships, bridges, locks, and traffic lanes. In commercial areas, monitoring 13 helps you understand large-vessel intentions and avoid close-quarters confusion.
Channel 22A — Coast Guard liaison
You typically contact the Coast Guard on 16, then they may direct you to 22A for detailed communications.
Working channels — 68 / 69 / 71 / 72 (and 78A in some areas)
Hail on 16 (or 9 where used), then move to a working channel. Keep transmissions brief and professional.
Pair this with: Communication Best Practices.
NOAA Weather channels (WX1–WX10)
NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts forecasts and warnings on WX channels. Scan WX1–WX10 to find the strongest local transmitter. If your radio supports it, use dual-watch/tri-watch so you can monitor 16 while listening to weather.
Related: Marine Weather & Forecasts (wind, seas & period, fog, warnings).
Proper VHF radio procedure (fast)
- Listen first for 20–30 seconds.
- Hail on 16 (or 9 where used): “[Name], [Name], this is [Your vessel], over.”
- Agree on a working channel and switch immediately.
- Keep transmissions short, clear, and professional.
Shortcut: Who you’re calling → who you are → where you are → what you need → “Over.”
FAQ (common questions)
What channel do you use for a Mayday?
Use Channel 16 for the voice distress call. If you have DSC, send the DSC distress alert on Channel 70 first, then make the voice Mayday on 16.
What is DSC Channel 70 used for?
Channel 70 is Digital Selective Calling (data-only). It sends automated distress/individual calls tied to your MMSI and position when GPS-connected.
Is Channel 9 a calling channel everywhere?
No. In some regions it’s used for non-emergency hailing to reduce congestion on 16. Always listen first and follow local practice.
What is Channel 13 for?
Channel 13 is bridge-to-bridge navigation, especially near commercial traffic, bridges, and passing situations.
What channel does the Coast Guard use besides 16?
Initial contact is usually on 16; detailed communications are often moved to 22A.
Which channels are common working channels?
Common options are 68, 69, 71, 72, and sometimes 78A depending on the area.
What does “Class D DSC” mean?
It refers to radios that support DSC distress/individual calling, typically requiring an MMSI and ideally a GPS position source, often via NMEA 2000 or NMEA 0183.
Which NOAA weather channel should I use?
Scan WX1–WX10 and pick the strongest local transmitter for your area.