CH9/16 For VHF Marine Radio Marine band VHF Channel 9 is replacing channel 16 as the general-purpose calling and hailing channel for recreational boaters throughout the Great Lakes. Channel 16 will remain the primary channel for distress and safety communications monitored by the U.S. Coast Guard and all Great Lakes mariners. Why the change - the increasing volume of radio calls between recreational boaters over channel 16 diminishes its ability to handle safety and distress traffic. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approval - the FCC has approved Channel 9 as a nationwide recreational calling channel on VHF marine radio. It has changed regulations to the Maritime Service Rules (Part 80) in support of the use of channel 9. History - using Channel 9 as a calling frequency between recreational boaters began in Boston Harbor in 1991. In one year it reduced radio traffic on Channel 16 by 50%. The use of Channel 9 spread across northeastern United States and was first introduced onto Lake Michigan on May 1, 1999. Monitoring of Channel 9 - It is for use by recreational boaters hailing one another. The Coast Guard and commercial vessels do not monitor Channel 9. Boaters should use Channel 16 to contact them. Marine Advisory Broadcast - The Coast Guard will broadcast marine advisories and safety information over both Channel 9 and 16. Boaters are encourage to use Channel 9 as their hailing frequency, it use will clear up Channel 16 for its primary role of safety and distress. This may allow the Coast Guard a faster response time for MAYDAY calls and other emergency radio requests that are often muted by unnecessary Channel 16 radio traffic. The success of Channel 9 depends on their understanding and assistance. Got a question about boating safety? Post your question in one of our Boating Forums! Got a boating safety tip to share with others? Share it in one of our Boating Forums or submit an article about it and have it published right here on BOATOhio.com! Back to the top... Back to the Boating Safety Index...