A Guide to Using VHF Radios at Sea
Go Sail VI prioritizes sailing safety whenever we sail around the beautiful Virgin Islands. Staying in touch with other sailors and authorities is a key part of avoiding trouble on the open waters. You can’t always rely on cell phone reception out on the Caribbean Sea, so using VHF radios is the main mode of communication when sailing the USVI and BVI.
When you take ASA sailing courses with Go Sail VI, our sailing instructors will show you the basics of how to use a VHF radio. For sailors who want to practice ahead of time, this guide will help you learn everything you need to know about sailing communication out at sea.
Why VHF Radios Are on Every Go Sail VI Sailboat
The Caribbean Sea is a magical place, partly because of how remote many of the islands and sailing routes are. Many locations that you’ll visit in the BVI and USVI have spotty cell phone coverage, so it’s crucial to use other methods of sailing communications in the event of an emergency.
VHF radios operate on 30 to 300 megahertz frequencies, which can travel long distances over water. These radios are always accessible to the Coast Guard, making them a vital resource in the event of a man overboard, sailing off course, or encountering unexpected weather.
Every boat we charter or teach ASA courses on at Go Sail Virgin Islands is equipped with a VHF radio. Your American Sailing (ASA) instructor is happy to help you answer questions about how to use them. Don’t hesitate to ask us questions in advance, either!
Using VHF Radios
Using VHF radios is relatively straightforward, but you will want to know the basics. Run through this checklist before sailing:
- Check that your batteries, generator, and electric panel are working and supplying power, and that the VHF radio itself has power and a signal.
- Tune into channel 16 to hear any signs of distress from other boaters, or to announce your own if needed. This is your standby channel, and where you call for help in an emergency.
- If you do need help, tune into channel 16 for several seconds, press down on the transmit button, and announce your boat name 3 times. Also, state the channel name calmly and clearly. Then wait for instructions on which channel to switch to for additional sailing communications.
Key Sailing Communication Terms
It’s not just in the movies; words like “over and out” are the SOP for sailing communications using a VHF. Here’s a look at some common phrases you should know when calling other boats using a VHF radio.
- Mayday: This term implies that you’re in danger and need help right away. Say it 3 times and only use “Mayday” in the most serious situations. Examples include: if your boat is sinking, there’s a fire, or there’s a man overboard you can’t rescue.
- Pan-Pan: If you have a moderately concerning issue (but one that isn’t life-threatening), you say “Pan-Pan” 3 times. Some issues that require calling “Pan-Pan” include drifting away from your intended location, having trouble navigating due to fog, or experiencing technical issues.
- Sécurité: Say “Sécurité” 3 times if you want to alert other sailors about issues they may encounter while sailing, such as cargo boats, debris underwater, or strong waves.
- Roger: This term is used to acknowledge that you understand a direction or instruction.
- Over and Out: Over means you’re done talking, and out means you’re signing off.
Sail Safely in the Virgin Islands
Go Sail VI has licensed ASA sailing instructors who are here to help you learn to sail responsibly and make the most of your time in the Virgin Islands. Learning how to use the VHF can prepare you for the unexpected and stay connected out on the Caribbean Sea.