Canadian waters

The Coast Guard (MCTS) listens on 16 and 70, not on working channels.

• 16
  Distress, urgency, safety and calling. Call the Coast Guard here first.
• 70
  DSC only, no voice.
• 68
  The general channel for recreational boaters.
• 69 · 72
  Pleasure craft on the BC coast.
• 71
  Marinas and yacht clubs, East Coast and Lake Winnipeg.
• 21B · 83B · WX
  Weather and marine broadcasts, receive only.

78A is not a pleasure craft channel in Canada.

In port, turn the power down to 1 W. Transmitting needs the ROC-M.

Working channels differ by region; MCTS and VTS channels are in Radio Aids to Marine Navigation.

Source: Canadian Coast Guard, Radio Aids to Marine Navigation; ISED RBR-2; Transport Canada TP 511.

Checked against the official sources on 25 October 2026. Channels change: the official notice wins over this page.