Using a Handheld VHF: Channel Selection, Mayday Procedures & Etiquette

When you're out on the water, a handheld VHF radio connects you to the rest of the boating world. It lets you reach nearby vessels, marinas, and emergency services when you need to speak up fast.

It’s easy to carry, simple to use, and far more reliable than a cell phone once you’re offshore. Whether you're checking in with a friend or calling for help, this tool belongs in your gear bag.

Most sailors learn how to use VHF radios in theory. But when you're under pressure, hands-on practice helps you stay clear and calm.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to pick a handheld VHF, how to use it, and when to speak up.

What Is a Handheld VHF Radio?

A handheld VHF radio is a two-way device that helps you talk to other people on the water. VHF stands for Very High Frequency, and it refers to the range of radio waves used for short-distance marine communication.

You’ll use it to check in with marinas, contact other boats, or reach emergency services. It's made for life on the water, so it's rugged, waterproof, and built to float.

Why Use One Instead of Your Phone?

Once you're offshore, your phone often drops signal. A handheld VHF keeps you connected when nothing else does.

Fixed-mount radios stay attached to the boat and have more range. But a handheld version gives you flexibility. You can carry it in your lifejacket or toss it in a dry bag during a dinghy ride.

Every sailor should know how to use a handheld VHF, whether you're chartering for the week or spending the season on your boat. It’s one of the first tools you should learn to use.

How to Choose a Handheld VHF for Your Boat

A handheld VHF radio is one of the most practical tools you’ll carry on a boat. Most hand-held units transmit at 5 watts, which covers short distances for ship-to-ship or ship-to-shore calls.

Some radios let you switch between 1 watt and 5 watts. Use low power to save battery when you're close to another vessel.

Look for these features:

• Waterproof and floating with a light or alert if dropped
• Rechargeable with backup batteries for longer trips
• Digital selective calling (DSC) to send a distress call with your maritime mobile service identity (MMSI) and GPS location
• An onboard GPS receiver to show your position even without a chartplotter
• Weather alerts and a scan function for changing conditions

Antenna height affects range. VHF signals travel in straight lines, so holding the radio higher helps your transmission reach farther.

Pick a model that fits your sailing style. Once you’ve got it, it’s time to learn how to use the channels. We really like the Icom radios, like the IC41 or, if you want DSC built in, the M94. Between those two, if you are just using it as a professional skipper iu

Which VHF Channels You Should Know Before You Call?

Once you have a handheld VHF radio, you’ll need to learn how to use the channels. This isn’t complicated, but it does take a little practice.

Let’s start with Channel 16. This is the hailing and emergency channel used by all vessels and monitored by the Coast Guard. Keep your radio tuned to Channel 16 whenever you’re not using another one.

Need to call another boat? Start on Channel 16, make your hail, then switch your radio to a working channel to finish the conversation.

Here are a few common channels to remember:

• Channel 16: Use this for distress calls and initial contact. Always switch off once contact is made.
• Channel 9: Some areas use this for hailing, especially in the U.S.
• Channel 13: Used for ship-to-ship calls near bridges and locks, mostly by commercial vessels.
• Channel 22A: The Coast Guard uses this for public safety broadcasts after making an alert on Channel 16.

Once you connect with someone, pick a working channel like 68, 69, 72, or 77. These vary by location, so listen first before you speak.

How To Make Routine VHF Calls

Once you’ve picked the right channel, it’s time to speak up. Calling another boat on a marine VHF radio might feel awkward at first, but it gets easier with practice.

Start on Channel 16 or Channel 9, depending on your area. Before you press the button, listen. If someone else is talking, wait until the channel is clear.

Then follow these steps:

1. Press the transmit button. Speak clearly and slowly.
2. Say the name of the boat you’re calling three times.
3. Say your boat’s name once. End with the word “over.”
4. Release the button and wait for a reply.

Here’s an example: “Serenity, Serenity, Serenity, this is Windward, over.”

If the other vessel replies, agree on a working channel. Say, “Switch to channel 68.” Then both boats move the dial.

Once you finish the conversation, return to Channel 16 to keep monitoring. That channel stays open for hails and emergencies.

How to Make a Mayday Call Using a Handheld VHF

If your boat is sinking, someone is injured, or fire breaks out, you’ll need to send a distress call right away. Your handheld VHF radio helps you reach help when every second counts.

First, turn your radio to Channel 16. Set the radio to high power. Then follow this step-by-step format:

1. Press and hold the transmit button.
2. Say “Mayday” three times.
3. Say your boat’s name three times.
4. Repeat “Mayday” and your name once more.
5. Give your location. Use latitude and longitude or describe your position by distance and bearing.
6. Describe what’s wrong. Say, “We are taking on water,” or “We have a person overboard.”
7. Say how many people are on board.
8. Share any extra details like your boat type, color, or if you launched a liferaft.
9. End with the word “over.” Then release the button and listen.

If no one answers, repeat the message. Speak slowly and clearly. The Coast Guard and nearby vessels may need time to reply.

Not every emergency is life-threatening. In less urgent cases, you’ll use “Pan-Pan” for medical issues or “Securité” to alert others about safety hazards.

Get Hands-On VHF Radio Training with Sailing Virgins

Reading about radio calls is one thing. Using a VHF during a live training session is where the skill starts to stick.

Sailing Virgins includes hands-on VHF radio training in every course. You won’t just listen to theory. You’ll practice routine calls, switch channels, and simulate emergency hails during live drills at sea.

Instructors walk you through every step. You’ll handle a working marine VHF radio, speak into the mic, and get used to hearing your voice on the air.

Whether you join an Intro to Sailing course or Private Group lessons, you’ll gain practical experience using a VHF that sticks long after the course ends.

Explore upcoming Sailing Virgins courses today!