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All questions
Marine radio

What is the difference between VHF Channel 16 and Channel 70?

Short answer

Channel 16 is for voice distress, urgency, safety and calling; Channel 70 is for DSC signalling only, with no voice traffic.

Do not make voice calls on Channel 70. DSC calls and alerts are sent digitally there, then the follow-up voice procedure normally moves to Channel 16 or another instructed working channel.

Sources and scope

Reviewed by Richard Moore on . This answer is scoped to united kingdom marine vhf and internationally harmonised procedure; check the current chart, publication, local rules and official operational guidance before acting afloat.

Quick check

What is the difference between VHF Channel 16 and Channel 70?