When operating your vessel with a VHF radio, what channel must you monitor?

Monitoring Channel 16 on a VHF radio is crucial because it serves as the international distress, safety, and calling frequency for maritime communication. By keeping a constant watch on this channel, vessel operators ensure they are aware of emergencies and can respond promptly to distress calls from other mariners. This channel is primarily used for establishing initial communication before switching to a different channel for further conversation or coordination. It is also used for important safety announcements and information shared by coast guards and other authorities.

The other channels, while they have their specific purposes, do not hold the same level of importance for watchkeeping as Channel 16 does. For example, Channel 9 is often used for intership safety communications, and Channel 22 is typically used for coast guard communications in the U.S. Channel 73 is primarily reserved for maritime service communications and is not designated for distress signals or initial contact. Hence, monitoring Channel 16 is essential for maintaining safety and effective communication at sea.