Marina, Port, and Local Channels

Ofcom describes UK marina coastal-station radio as supporting pleasure-craft movement, berthing and race control. It identifies M and M2 as UK simplex marina channels, while international coastal-station licensing supports port operations, ship movement and safety. That does not mean every marina monitors both M channels or that another published local channel can be ignored.

Ports, harbour authorities, locks, bridges and vessel traffic services may each publish a channel and reporting point. Use the current harbour guide, notice or station instruction, then keep the transmission limited to the operational purpose of that service.

Prepare the request before entering the call area: station called, vessel identity, position and intended movement. A correct channel cannot compensate for an unclear call, and a clear call on the wrong channel still reaches the wrong service.