VHF Radio Equipment is required by all vessels proceeding to seaward of:

In distress situations or when a boat breaks down, VHF radio is the most efficient means of communication. The only significant limitation of VHF radio is that it will be useless if swamped by a wave or if the boat's battery is underwater. Consider taking a hand-held VHF that is waterproof or kept in a sealable plastic bag. It can be used while still inside the bag.

If you are planning to use a cell phone as your only means of communication, consider the advantages VHF has over your cell phone;

• better coverage and fewer shadow areas
• collective safety with both shore stations and other boats listening. If you are in distress you want everyone possible to know
• batteries in a VHF are longer lasting
• there is no need to remember phone numbers
• you are not relying on just one person to pass on the message.

These advantages work for everyone if all vessels keep a constant listening watch on VHF Channel 16, the international distress channel. However, a cell phone that is in a sealed plastic bag and kept in your pocket may be a lifesaver if you capsize suddenly, provided you are in an area where there is coverage.

If your boat capsizes or swamps, water will make the VHF inoperable. Back up the VHF by carrying a cell phone in a sealed plastic bag.

Rules for Radio Use
 

• listen before transmitting
• don't make unnecessary calls and keep all calls as brief as possible
• don't allow children to play with the radio
• always use the name of the boat you are calling first, then identify yourself using your boat name
• always ensure your microphone is correctly stowed to avoid accidental transmissions which will lock up the channel
• use Channel 16 for making your initial call, then move to an agreed working channel
• for emergencies, stay on Channel 16 unless you are directed to another channel by Bermuda Radio
• return to Channel 16 when you have completed a call

VHF DSC Tutorial (Boat U.S)  Courtesy of Boat U.S.

Bermuda Radio keeps a 24-hour listening watch on Channel 16.