16 is the channel you hail other vessels and listen to when offshore, (hail and distress frequency) and the coast guard monitors. once you raise other vessel you go to another channel to talk. Channel 13 is used for communications in channels and inland. once you get outside of bouy's you go to 16. you can make phone calls through the marine operator on channels 27,28,29, but anyone on that channel can listen to your call. Your call sign will be boat name and the fcc will give you call letters if you license your vhf
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