UK VHF marine radio frequencies and usage
In the United Kingdom there are approximately 57 VHF channels available plus the private channels M and M2 for use by marinas and yacht clubs and the private channel 00 which is for HMCG use only. 2 additional channels are dedicated to the Automatic Identification System services. The U. K. uses the "International Frequency" plan.
Like virtually all other countries throughout the world, the United Kingdom has dedicated many of these channels to specific uses.
SAR Operations
Channel 6
Under International Treaty, this channel is used for communications between ships and aircraft for coordinating search and rescue operations.
Channel 10
In addition to SAR operations, this channel is used during pollution incidents. It is also used for the broadcast of Marine Safety Information in the UK.
Channel 67
SAR operations and for safety communications with HM Coastguard.
Channel 73
SAR operations and the broadcast of Marine Safety Information in the UK.
Communications Between Ship Stations (Intership)
Inter-ship channels are for communications between ship stations. Inter-ship communications should be limited to Channels 6, 8, 72 and 77. Masters are urged to ensure that all ship-to-ship communications in the waters of the United Kingdom are confined to these channels
Port Operations and Ship Movement
The U. K. has set aside, by international treaty, specific channels which are assigned to a user. It is important not to use these channels for other purposes if they have been assigned locally or if they have not been set aside for inter-ship working.
Public Correspondence
These channels, set aside by international agreement, are for making calls to the public telephone network. Calls made on these channels are often referred to as "link calls."
Marina Channels
Channels set aside by the United Kingdom administration, for matters relating to mooring, berthing and race control. There are three marina channels:
Channel "M" (157.850 MHz
Channel "M2" (161.425 MHz)
Channel "80" (157.025/161.625)
Channels M and M2 are UK channels and should only be used in UK territorial waters. Their on-board use is covered by a Ship Radio License. However, equipment that is only capable of operating on these frequencies is usually licensed under a Coastal Station Radio License and it is not necessary for the operator to hold an operator's certificate.
Weather and Marine Safety Information (MSI)
Weather and navigation safety information is broadcast on channels 23, 84, and 86. Broadcasts are made every 3 hours beginning at 0710 Local, with an announcement made on channel 16 prior to the broadcast. Strong Wind Warnings are issued on receipt from the Meteorological Office if the wind in an inshore forecast area is expected to exceed force 6 and it was not forecast in the previous Inshore Forecast. MSI is also broadcast on channels 10 and 73.
While in the waters of the United Kingdom, the use of any marine VHF radio must be under the control of an operator holding an appropriate license issued by the country in which the vessel is registered.
