What do you call yourself when speaking to a Harbormaster over VHF?

[ben1000]

Howdy...

I'm planning to cruise around Newport Harbor in my 12' inflatable in a week. I have a VHF Radio, and I'm very comfortable with radio communications (I'm a pilot), but when you're a pilot, you begin radio transmissions by announcing who you're calling, and then identifying yourself by your plane model and tail-number...

For example, when calling San Jose Tower, you'd begin the conversation: "San Jose Tower, Cessna N12345". Then wait for them to announce your tail number back to you to acknowledge they are ready to hear from you...

So, how do I handle communications with the harbormaster? My boat has a registration number, but it doesn't have a name... How do I announce myself to the harbormaster, and how do I identify myself...

Any help is appreciated..

Best,

Ben

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: What do you call yourself when speaking to a Harbormaster over VHF?

You don't have to be technical, just helpful. I'd say "X marina, this is 12' inflatable approaching "A" dock." Description and location. He'll reply, flip you to another channel if you start on 16, then answer your question about where you can dock. You don't need to call unless you have a question. Just stay out of the way!

Proper protocal for larger vessels in open water is different, where you give your ID and state who you are calling. However, people seldom if ever use their numbers but instead "sailboat Sea Dream" or "fishing boat Margaret Lee" or "vessel in distress" which makes a lot more sense for the initial call.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Re: What do you call yourself when speaking to a Harbormaster over VHF?

I usually just describe the boat as a X' pleasure craft with Y name.

the best one of mine was "17' pleasure craft 'Ship Happens' requesting dock" the harbor master was still laughing when I pulled up.