Which channel is used for international hailing and distress by marine VHF?

Which channel is used for international hailing and distress by marine VHF?

• A. Channel 9
• B. Channel 16
• C. Channel 22
• D. Channel 70

Answer: (B)

Maritime VHF relies on a single international channel designated for hailing and distress that all vessels and coast stations monitor. This channel is the universal entry point for calling another vessel or signaling for help, so it’s kept clear for emergencies. When you need to hail someone or issue a distress signal, you start on this channel, then switch to a working channel once contact is established to carry on the conversation. This channel operates at 156.8 MHz, and because it’s always monitored, it’s the channel you rely on in urgent situations. Other channels exist for routine or region-specific communications, but they aren’t the international standard for distress or hailing. Channel 70 is reserved for digital distress calls via DSC, not voice, while Channel 9 and others are used for non-emergency purposes in some areas.

Maritime VHF relies on a single international channel designated for hailing and distress that all vessels and coast stations monitor. This channel is the universal entry point for calling another vessel or signaling for help, so it’s kept clear for emergencies. When you need to hail someone or issue a distress signal, you start on this channel, then switch to a working channel once contact is established to carry on the conversation. This channel operates at 156.8 MHz, and because it’s always monitored, it’s the channel you rely on in urgent situations. Other channels exist for routine or region-specific communications, but they aren’t the international standard for distress or hailing. Channel 70 is reserved for digital distress calls via DSC, not voice, while Channel 9 and others are used for non-emergency purposes in some areas.