Communications at sea

Getting a tow for your sail or power boat at sea or on inland waterways

by Stuart Batley | Boat Handling, Communications, Emergencies

FREE tips from the Safe Skipper App for iPhone/iPad/Android: Getting a tow for your sail or power boat Plan how to secure a tow rope to your boat. The tow rope must be attached to strong deck fittings As a rescue boat approaches, warn them of any debris or loose lines...

Boating emergency – how to broadcast a MAYDAY emergency call

by Stuart Batley | Communications, Emergencies

How to broadcast a MAYDAY emergency call How to broadcast a MAYDAY emergency call if a vessel or person is in grave and imminent danger and immediate assistance is required: • Check that your VHF radio is on and high power setting is selected Select Channel 16...

The VHF DSC Radio jargon buster

by Stuart Batley | Communications, Preparation

AIS – Automatic Identification System This system is used by shipping. It allows another vessel or coast station to use equipment that can interrogate the radio in order to learn the course, speed, type of vessel, cargo, etc. It is also available to recreational...