Routine Calling

Before transmitting, the operator should listen for a period long enough to be satisfied that harmful interference will not be caused to communications already in place.

Marine VHF Channels established for calling purposes are not to be used for the exchange of routine messages.

When using radio telephony channels in the VHF marine band and communications are good the initial call may be simplified as follows:

• The name and/or other identifying information of the station being called once only;
• The words THIS IS;
• The name and/or other identifying information of the station calling, spoken twice;
• The purpose of the call;
• The suggested working channel for the exchange of messages; followed by
• The word OVER. (The invitation to reply)

Replying to calls

The Limited coast station reply could be abbreviated in a similar manner to the call:

At this point, both stations change to the suggested working VHF channel and the vessel initiates the call again.

Transmissionwithoutstation identification is forbidden. Once contact has been established station identification may be shortened to just the station name:

The limited coast station receives and acknowledges the position report:

At this point, both stations return to monitoring Channel 16.

Repeating Calls

If no immediate reply is received to the initial call, wait two minutes and repeat the call. After two calls wait a further three minutes before calling again. At this point, it may be necessary to call another station or to consider whether the required station is in range. Restrictions with regard to the repetition of calls do not apply to distress or urgency calls.

Difficulties in Establishing Contact with other stations

When a station receives a call and is not certain for whom the call was intended, it should not reply, instead wait for a repetition of the call. When a station receives a call that is intended for it but is uncertain of the caller, then the called station may reply requesting the identity of the calling station.