Sample Radio Conversation:

VHF Radio Template (Channel 16 → 22A)

Captian:
“Coast Guard Sector New York, Coast Guard Sector New York, this is recreational vessel [Boat Name] on Channel One-Six, over.”

(When they respond, they’ll usually say “Switch to Channel Two-Two Alpha.”)

You (on 22A):
“Sector New York, this is recreational vessel [Boat Name], [Length] feet, [Type], currently anchoring in Upper Bay Anchorage Area 20-Alpha.
My position is [Latitude and Longitude].
Draft is [x] feet.
Anchoring at [time local] and expect to remain until [time/date].
A continuous radio watch will be maintained on Channel 16, and I can be underway within 30 minutes if directed.
Over.”