Look at your VHF owner’s manual. Regardless of the radio’s manufacturer, the owner’s manual will contain an illustration of the radio, along with basic user instructions. You can perform several functions with a VHF radio: You can communicate with another boater, talk to a marina or restaurant, check the marine weather and ask for emergency help. Ensure that you understand all instructions clearly.
Read the Coast Guard radio information. In addition to user instructions provided by the VHF radio’s manufacturer, the United States Coast Guard has compiled a reference sheet titled “Marine Radio Information for Boaters.” In addition to vessel calling protocols, the reference sheet addresses other communications scenarios (including Mayday emergency calls).
Prepare your radio for use. Turn the radio on, and watch for a light that indicates the radio has power. Using your operating instructions, turn the dial to Channel 16 (or punch in Channel 16 digitally). According to the Coast Guard, Channel 16 has been designated as the international calling, safety and distress frequency (or channel). Because so many vessels use Channel 16, communications must be immediately transferred to another channel so Channel 16 is open for emergencies. Other calling channels are also available.
Call another boater on the radio. First, make sure the channel is not in use. According to "Marine Radio Information for Boaters," here is the recommended procedure for calling another vessel: State the name of the vessel you are calling, and then state your vessel’s name. If needed, you may say the called vessel’s name two or three times. When the receiving vessel acknowledges your call, switch immediately to another channel. Use the following example as a template:
Empty Pockets calling: Windborne, Windborne, this is Empty Pockets. Do you copy?
Windborne calling: This is Windborne. Switch and answer on Channel 68.
Empty Pockets: Switching to 68.
Keep your calls short and professional. Be aware that everything you say on the VHF radio can be heard by a potentially large audience. This audience includes not only other boaters in range of your call but also the Coast Guard. Coast Guard personnel regularly monitor the VHF radio for improper use or language and are not hesitant about admonishing erring boaters.
