Maritime English
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What is Channel Sixteen?

Channel Sixteen The international VHF radio distress, safety, and calling frequency (156.8 MHz) mandatory for all seagoing vessels to monitor continuously.

Source: IMO SMCP, STCW Convention, SOLAS, COLREG

How is “Channel Sixteen” Used in Practice?

All vessels must maintain a continuous listening watch on VHF channel sixteen for distress, safety, and routine messages.

Certification Exam Relevance

STCWMarlins TestISF WatchkeeperGMDSS

Who Needs to Know This Term?

  • Deck Officers
  • Engine Officers
  • Masters

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Channel Sixteen?

The international VHF radio distress, safety, and calling frequency (156.8 MHz) mandatory for all seagoing vessels to monitor continuously.

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