Owner's Manual

Voice Calling
Nothing Comes Close to a Cobra
®
7
Initial Calling on Channel 16 or 9
The use of Channel 16 is permitted for making initial contact (hailing) with another vessel.
The limits on calling must be followed. Be reminded, Channel 16’s most important function
is for Emergency Messages. If, for some reason, Channel 16 is congested, the use of
Channel 9, especially in U.S. waters, may be used as the initial contact (hailing) channel for
non-emergency communication.
Limits On Calling
You must not call the same station for more than 30 seconds at a time.
If you do not get a reply, wait at least two (2) minutes before calling again.
After three (3) calling periods, wait at least 15 minutes before calling again.
Change Channels
After contacting another station on a calling channel, change immediately
to a channel which is available for the type of message you want to send.
Station Identification
Identify, in English, your station by your FCC call sign, ship name, the state registration
number, or other official number at both the beginning and end of each message.
Prohibited Communications
You MUST NOT transmit:
Q
False distress or emergency messages.
Q
Messages containing obscene, indecent, or profane words or meaning.
Q
General calls, signals, or messages (messages not addressed to a particular station) on
Channel 16, except in an emergency or if you are testing your radio.
Q
When you are on land.
Voice Calling
To Call Another Vessel Or A Shore Installation Such As A Lock Or Bridge Tender:
Q
Make sure your radio is On.
Q
Select Channel 16 and listen to make sure it is not being used.
NOTE
Channel 9 may be used by recreational vessels for general-purpose
calling. This frequency should be used whenever possible to relieve
congestion on Channel 16.
Q
When the channel is quiet, press the Talk button and call the ship you wish
to call. (Hold the microphone a few inches from your face and speak directly into it in a
normal tone of voice — clearly and distinctly.) Say “[name
of station being called] THIS IS [your vessel’s name or call sign].”
Q
Once contact is made on the calling channel, you must switch to a proper working
channel. See the channel listing on page 66 through 78.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols