When operating in coastal waters, a GMDSS-equipped vessel must maintain what type of watch?

When operating in coastal waters, a GMDSS-equipped vessel must maintain what type of watch?

• A. Continuous DSC watch on 8514.5 kHz.
• B. Continuous aural watch on 2182.0 kHz.
• C. Continuous DSC watch on VHF channel 16.
• D. Continuous DSC watch on VHF channel 70.

Answer: (D)

In coastal waters, a GMDSS-equipped vessel is required to maintain a continuous DSC (Digital Selective Calling) watch on VHF channel 70. This channel is specifically designated for DSC distress and safety communications. Maintaining this watch enables vessels to receive distress calls and essential maritime safety information. VHF channel 70 operates on a frequency of 156.525 MHz, which is dedicated to DSC communications, allowing for automated distress signaling and selective calling without the need for voice communication. This helps ensure that vessels remain vigilant and can respond promptly to emergencies or any distress alerts issued by nearby vessels or shore stations. While other frequencies and channels have their own importance in maritime communication, they do not supersede the requirement for a continuous DSC watch specifically on VHF channel 70 in coastal waters. This differentiation is crucial for effective communication and response capabilities among vessels operating in these regions.

In coastal waters, a GMDSS-equipped vessel is required to maintain a continuous DSC (Digital Selective Calling) watch on VHF channel 70. This channel is specifically designated for DSC distress and safety communications. Maintaining this watch enables vessels to receive distress calls and essential maritime safety information.

VHF channel 70 operates on a frequency of 156.525 MHz, which is dedicated to DSC communications, allowing for automated distress signaling and selective calling without the need for voice communication. This helps ensure that vessels remain vigilant and can respond promptly to emergencies or any distress alerts issued by nearby vessels or shore stations.

While other frequencies and channels have their own importance in maritime communication, they do not supersede the requirement for a continuous DSC watch specifically on VHF channel 70 in coastal waters. This differentiation is crucial for effective communication and response capabilities among vessels operating in these regions.