{"id":34336,"date":"2025-10-23T10:14:39","date_gmt":"2025-10-23T09:14:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.marenauta.com\/?p=34336"},"modified":"2025-10-23T10:14:39","modified_gmt":"2025-10-23T09:14:39","slug":"10-mistakes-to-avoid-when-using-the-vhf-radio","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.marenauta.com\/en\/10-mistakes-to-avoid-when-using-the-vhf-radio\/","title":{"rendered":"10 mistakes to avoid when using the VHF radio"},"content":{"rendered":"

Among the communication systems used on a cruising sailboat is the VHF radio, an essential device for calling the Coast Guard<\/a> in case of difficulty or emergency, notifying a port of an imminent arrival, or contacting other sailors to say “Hello”, share information, or avoid potential collisions. In Italy, VHF is legally required for anyone sailing beyond 6 miles from the coast.<\/p>\n

Marine VHF radio is a worldwide communication system used by ships and yachts, as well as by aircrafts such as planes and helicopters. It is a two-way communication method, meaning it both sends and receives messages via very high frequency (VHF) radio waves. Typically, professional sailors, recreational boaters, aviators, and land-based controllers use these frequencies for safety and transparency. A portable VHF usually has a range of about 9 miles, while a fixed installation can reach around 14 miles. However, the geographic location and weather conditions can increase or reduce these ranges.<\/p>\n

Discover the best boat rental offers<\/a><\/div>\n

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The VHF radio has its own set of rules and etiquette that must be followed<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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When you start sailing and gain access to these channels and devices, it\u2019s essential to follow certain rules and best practices. Let\u2019s take a look at some common mistakes to avoid when using VHF radio frequencies aboard a sailboat during a cruise.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

01. Not listening before speaking<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Among all the standard VHF radio practices, this is one to keep firmly in mind. VHF channels follow a specific etiquette, and it\u2019s important to be mindful of what is said and done. When joining a channel, take a moment to pause and listen to ongoing conversations before speaking. Avoid interrupting others or talking over them, and wait for a clear gap in the conversation before you chime in.<\/p>\n

02. Speaking on VHF radio without identifying yourself<\/strong><\/h3>\n

There\u2019s a reason your boat has a name. When you start speaking on the VHF radio, make sure to identify yourself with the name or call sign of your vessel. A boat’s call sign is a special combination of letters and numbers used to locate it and communicate with it by radio. Regulatory authorities assign these call signs to boats to make radio communications clearer and more efficient.<\/p>\n

\"Radio<\/p>\n

03. Avoid sending messages that are too long<\/strong><\/h3>\n

When using a VHF radio on board, messages should be short and clear. Keep conversations concise and avoid off-topic or overly long discussions. If you need to chat with a friend, switch to another channel\u2014but make sure it\u2019s not reserved for emergencies or distress calls. Remember that all boats share the same channels, so your messages should be brief (under three minutes) and focused on important matters. To reach a friend, use their boat’s name and call sign. If you don\u2019t know the name of their boat, avoid using your friend’s personal name and contact them by phone instead. Always keep channel 16 open for emergencies, and be aware that the Coast Guard may instruct you to stop if you misuse the channels.<\/p>\n

04. Using the wrong channel<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The national emergency, safety, and calling frequency is channel 16. Therefore, ships and yachts must tune in to this channel for essential safety updates and emergency assistance. Channel 16 is monitored by commercial radio operators for Coast Guard alerts, updates on \u201cNavaid\u201d (navigation aid), weather warnings, and messages to vessels. For all these reasons, channel 16 should never be used for conversations unrelated to safety or emergencies.<\/p>\n

For boat-to-boat communications, it\u2019s better to use channels 6, 8, 72, or 77. It\u2019s also important to remember that Harbor Authorities use channel 9.<\/p>\n

05. Pressing the push-to-talk button without speaking<\/strong><\/h3>\n

It\u2019s not uncommon to accidentally keep the push-to-talk button pressed after finishing a message on the VHF. Doing so, however, creates a loud, unpleasant noise over the airwaves. To avoid damaging the radio and to protect the ears of other sailors, make sure to press the push-to-talk button only while you are speaking.<\/p>\n

\"Radio<\/p>\n

06. Avoid saying \u201cOver\u201d when you\u2019re donespeaking<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Saying \u201cover\u201d at the end of your message signals to others that you\u2019ve finished your turn speaking and are waiting for a response. Communication is crucial when using a VHF radio on boats, and if a reply is not required, you can simply say \u201cout.\u201d<\/p>\n

If you need to contact another vessel:<\/p>\n