Subelement G: VHF-DSC Equipment & Comms— Topic :
Question 48G3
Element 7R (GMDSS-RO)What would be the appropriate channel selection for follow-on voice communications for a Routine priority call to another vessel?
Explanation
For routine follow-on voice communications between two vessels, a dedicated working channel should be used.
**Ch-08** is a designated VHF marine inter-ship working channel. After making initial contact (often on Ch-16 or via DSC on Ch-70), stations engaged in routine conversations are required to move to a working channel to conduct their traffic. Ch-08 is appropriate for commercial and general inter-ship communications.
**Ch-70** is the Digital Selective Calling (DSC) channel, used exclusively for digital signaling, distress alerts, and initial calls; it is not for voice communications.
**Ch-16** is the international distress, urgency, safety, and *calling* channel. For routine calls, once contact is established, vessels *must* switch to a working channel to keep Ch-16 clear for other calls or distress traffic.
**Ch-22** (specifically Ch-22A in the US) is primarily for communications with the Coast Guard and safety-related broadcasts or liaison, not a general routine inter-ship working channel.
Related Questions
48G1 How are Routine calls usually formatted/initiated?48G2 What would be the appropriate menu choice when calling another ship station?48G4 If the vessel you wish to call is not listed in your VHF address book, what action would not resolve the problem?48G5 What conditions must exist for a completely automatic DSC acknowledgement of a Routine call and change to suggested working channel?48G6 What actions will take place upon receipt of a Routine call from another vessel if both vessels are programmed for automatic response and the ECC is no good?