VHF channels
What VHF Channels to Use in the UK — A Sailor's Guide
Published · Last checked October 2026
In UK waters, use channel 16 for distress, urgency, safety and initial calling, and channel 70 only for DSC. HM Coastguard often moves small craft to channel 67. Marinas mostly use channel 80, M (37A) or M2. For boat-to-boat (intership) talk use 6, 8, 72 or 77. Ports and harbours have their own working channels, listed in the almanac and on charts. Coastguard weather and safety broadcasts are announced on 16 and read on another channel.
The channels you will use most
| Channel | Use |
|---|---|
| 16 | Distress, urgency, safety and calling |
| 70 | DSC only (no voice) |
| 67 | Small craft safety channel: coastguard working channel |
| 62, 63, 64, 84, 86 | Typical channels for coastguard MSI broadcasts (varies by area) |
| 80 | Marinas |
| M (37A), M2 | Marinas, yacht clubs and race control |
| 6, 8, 72, 77 | Intership (boat to boat) |
| 12, 14 and others | Port operations and VTS (check the almanac) |
| 10, 23, 73 | Also used by coastguard in some areas, including pollution and SAR |
Ports and harbours
Every commercial port publishes its VHF working channel. Southampton VTS, Dover, the Thames and others ask yachts to listen on their channel when in the area, even if you do not call. Harbour masters in smaller ports often use 12, 14 or 11. Look in the almanac, the harbour's website and on the chart.
Good habits
- Do not use 6, 8, 72 or 77 for long chats in busy areas; others share them.
- Channel 13 is used internationally for bridge-to-bridge navigation safety between ships.
- Private channels such as M and M2 are only available on UK-specification sets; check yours.
- Use low power for nearby stations.
- Never chat on 16 or transmit on 70.
Abroad
Channels 16 and 70 are worldwide, but marina and intership conventions change. In France, marinas commonly use channel 9. Check the local pilot or almanac when you cross the Channel. For radio procedure, see VHF channel 16 explained and the VHF radio lesson.