this manual, and select an appropriate channel for communications after initial contact. For example, Channels 68 and 69 of the U.S. VHF Charts are some of the channels available to non-commercial (recreational) boaters. Monitor your desired channel in advance to make sure you will not be interrupting other traffic, and then go back to either channel 16 or 9 for your initial contact.

When the hailing channel (16 or 9) is clear, state the name of the other vessel you wish to call and then “this is” followed by the name of your vessel and your Station License (Call Sign). When the other vessel returns your call, immediately request another channel by saying “go to,” the number of the other channel, and “over.” Then switch to the new channel. When the new channel is not busy, call the other vessel.

After a transmission, say “over,” and release the microphone’s push-to-talk (PTT) switch. When all communication with the other vessel is completed, end the last transmission by stating your Call Sign and the word “out.” Note that it is not necessary to state your Call Sign with each transmission, only at the beginning and end of the contact.

Remember to return to Channel 16 when not using another channel. Some radios automatically monitor Channel 16 even when set to other channels or when scanning.

8.3 OPERATING ON CHANNELS 13 AND 67

Channel 13 is used at docks and bridges and by vessels maneuvering in port. Messages on this channel must concern navigation only, such as meeting and passing in restricted waters.

Channel 67 is used for navigational traffic between vessels.

By regulation, power is normally limited to 1 Watt on these channels. Your radio is programmed to automatically reduce power to this limit on these channels. However, in certain situations it may be necessary to temporarily use a higher power. See page 14 ([H/L] key) for means to temporarily override the low-power limit on these two channels.

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