10 MT-700
3.2 Calling Another Vessel
Channel 16 may be used to establish initial contact with another vessel. However, its
most important use is for voice emergency messages. Channel 16 must be monitored
at all times except when engaged in actual communication on another channel.
Channel 16 is monitored by international search and rescue (SAR) authorities,
National Coast Guards and by other vessels. Use of Channel 16 for calling or hailing
must be limited to initial contact only. Calling should not exceed 30 seconds and
may be repeated 3 times at 2 minute intervals.
Prior to making contact with another vessel, determine which channel will be used for
continued communication after the initial contact. Monitor the desired channel for
traffic and, when clear, switch to Channel 16 to make initial contact.
Listen for traffic on the Calling Channel (16). If clear, press the Push To Talk (
PTT
)
button on the microphone. Speak the name of the vessel you are calling followed by
“This is” and the name of your vessel and your call sign. Release the
PTT
and listen
for a reply. When the other vessel returns your call, acknowledge the call with “go
to”, the number of the new channel and “over”. Switch to the new channel and listen
for traffic. If necessary, wait for traffic to clear, and then call the other vessel. As
communication proceeds, end each transmission with “over”. When communication
with the other vessel is completed, end the last transmission with your call sign and
the word “out”. It is not necessary to end each transmission with your call sign, just
give your call sign at the beginning and end of each contact.
Remember to switch to Channel 16 when not actively communicating on another
channel.
3.3 Telephone Calls
You may use your
MT-700
transceiver to make telephone calls to persons on shore.
To do so requires the services of marine operators who operate on designated Public
Correspondence channels. There are several channels designated for this type of
traffic and to determine the channel being used in your area, ask someone with local
knowledge, contact a Harbor Master or other marine authority.
Call the marine operator and identify yourself with your vessel’s name. Normally
you contact a marine operator on their working channel rather than making initial
contact on Channel 16. The marine operator will ask for your intentions and
establish a payment method for the call (collect, credit card, etc.). When
arrangements are complete, your radio communication will be patched into the
telephone line. In conversing with a person on the phone it is important to use
