Basic Calling Format
A clear routine call identifies the station being called and your own vessel. Repeat names enough times for clarity, then wait for a reply.
- Station called
- This is
Marine Radio revision module 5 of 10
RTN
Routine Calls
Radio checks, ship-to-ship calls, marina calls, working channel changes, and ending a conversation cleanly.
Radio checksCalling format
10 guided lessons · 20 practice questions · 20 flashcards
3 outcomes · self-guided revision
- Explain radio checks, ship-to-ship calls, marina calls, working channel changes, and ending a conversation cleanly.
- Apply Radio checks to a realistic onboard situation.
- Recall the core check: station called.
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Radio Checks
A radio check should be brief and made with an appropriate station or service. Avoid unnecessary checks with the coastguard where local automated or harbour services exist.
- Use an appropriate station
- Keep it short
Marina and Harbour Calls
Marina calls usually need vessel name, position, request, length or draught if relevant, and any instructions received.
- State your request
- Give relevant vessel details
Ship-to-Shore Telephone Calls
The SRC syllabus includes making ship-to-shore telephone calls through a coast station where that service is available. Treat this as routine traffic: establish contact clearly, move to t...
- Ship-to-shore telephone calls are routine traffic
- Use the coast station's instructions and working channel
Routine Call Shape
A routine call should be short, identifiable, and easy to answer. Call the station you want, say your own vessel name, wait for a response, then pass the practical message on the correct...
- Called station name, spoken as required.
- This is, followed by your vessel name.
Radio Check Procedure
Radio checks should be brief and made on an appropriate channel, not as a casual habit on Channel 16 where avoidable. Know the local procedure and use low power when near the station.
- Use the appropriate local channel or service.
- Give vessel identity.
Planning a Marina or Harbour Call
Marina and harbour calls need position and request. For example: who you are, where you are, your vessel length or berth request if relevant, and what you need next.
- Check the published channel before arrival.
- Call early enough to follow instructions safely.
Ending Cleanly
Routine calls often become untidy at the end. Use Over when you expect the other station to reply. Use Out when the exchange is complete and no reply is expected.
- Over invites a reply.
- Out ends the exchange.
Unanswered, Garbled, And Repeated Calls
If a call is unanswered, do not fill the channel with immediate repetitions. Listen, allow time for the other station to respond, repeat the call at sensible intervals, and check the chan...
- Listen and check the set-up before calling again.
- Use SAY AGAIN and specify the missing part when possible.
Coast Stations And Public Correspondence
For a coast station that supports DSC, make an Individual DSC routine call using its published MMSI. When acknowledged, accept the working channel, change to it, and wait for the coast st...
- Use the coast station's published MMSI and current service information.
- Wait on the nominated working channel for the coast station to call.
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