Proper use of the VHF channels is an important safety factor. Channel usage in the Solent and Southampton Water has some differences from that in other areas so we have compiled this guide. VHF call signs are indicated as e.g. "Solent Coastguard". [printer friendly version (A5)]
N.B. Ensure that your VHF is set to "INT(ernational)" not "US(a)"! Radios operating on USA channel settings will not hear the reply from an NCI Station (on ch.65), from a Marina (on ch.80), or receive the new Marine Safety Information channels (ch.62,63,64). New radios are often set to "US" when bought; use the menus to reset them to "INT".
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Currently almost 60 National Coastwatch stations are operational and manned by over 2600 volunteer watchkeepers around the British Isles from Fleetwood in the North West, through Wales, to the South and East of England to Filey in North Yorkshire.
National Coastwatch watchkeepers provide the eyes and ears along the coast, monitoring radio channels and providing a listening watch in poor visibility. They are trained to deal with emergencies offering a variety of skills and experience, and full training by the National Coastwatch ensures that high standards are met.
The words National Coastwatch Institution and Eyes Along the Coast and the NCI logos are Registered Trademarks of NCI.
General enquiries
0300 111 1202
Media enquiries
0845 460 1202
17 Dean Street, Liskeard,
Cornwall, PL14 4AB