Most people hope they’ll never need to call the Coastguard, but it’s important to know exactly when and how to ask for help at sea. Whether you’re out on a small sailing boat, a jet ski or a motor cruiser, understanding what counts as a real emergency and how to report it could save lives. There’s no shame in calling for help, and the Coastguard would always rather be contacted early than too late.
Situations Where the Coastguard Should Be Called
You should contact the Coastguard whenever life is at risk or there is a potential danger to people on board. Common reasons include:
- A person or vessel is in distress or danger
- Someone has fallen overboard
- You’ve lost power or steering and are drifting
- You’ve run aground or are taking on water
- You’ve spotted a flare or heard a distress signal
- A person is missing at sea or on the coast
Sometimes, people hesitate, wondering if the situation is serious enough. If you’re not sure but something feels wrong, it’s best to err on the side of caution and call. The Coastguard can assess the situation and advise whether action is needed.
What to Say on VHF Channel 16
VHF Channel 16 is the international distress frequency and is monitored 24 hours a day by the Coastguard. If you need urgent assistance, this is where to call.
Here’s what to do:
- Use a clear voice and speak slowly.
- If it’s a life-threatening emergency, say “Mayday” three times.
- Give your vessel name and position.
- Describe the emergency and say how many people are on board.
- State what help you need.
An example would be:
“Mayday Mayday Mayday, this is sailing vessel Blue Horizon, Blue Horizon, Blue Horizon. Our position is two nautical miles east of Start Point. We are taking on water and require immediate assistance. Three people on board.”
If it’s serious but not immediately life-threatening, you can use the call “Pan Pan” instead of “Mayday”. This signals urgency but not full distress. For example, if your engine fails but you’re not in immediate danger.
Logging Your Trip with the Coastguard
One way to stay safer at sea is to let someone know your plans. The RYA SafeTrx app is a simple way to do this. You can log your journey, expected arrival time and route, and it will alert your chosen emergency contact and the Coastguard if you are overdue. It replaces the old CG66 scheme and is free to use.
Logging your trip means that if something does go wrong and you’re unable to call for help, search and rescue teams have a starting point and key details to work with.
You’re Never Wasting Their Time
Some people worry about bothering the Coastguard, especially if it turns out they didn’t need help after all. But the service exists for exactly this reason. They would always rather be called early than face a more dangerous situation later. No one will be cross with you for calling – even if things work out okay.
Remember, hesitation can cost time, and time is crucial in many maritime emergencies. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or new to boating, speaking up when something feels wrong is always the right move.
Understanding the Difference Between Mayday and Pan Pan
Understanding the difference between these two terms helps you communicate clearly and receive the right response.
- Mayday: This is used when there is a grave and immediate danger to life, such as sinking, fire, or man overboard in rough seas.
- Pan Pan: This is used when there is an urgent problem but no immediate danger to life, such as a mechanical failure or low fuel in poor visibility.
Both calls are taken seriously, but using the correct one gives the Coastguard a clearer idea of what help to send.
Being prepared and knowing when to contact the Coastguard makes you a responsible skipper. Keep your VHF radio tuned to Channel 16, carry the right safety gear, and use tools like RYA SafeTrx to stay connected. If the worst does happen, you’ll be ready to act quickly and get the help you need. Always trust your instincts at sea – if something feels off, make the call.