Proper radio call

Flytrade

Flytrade

Active Member
Feb 20, 2018
302
Bradenton, FL
Boat Info
2006 320 Sundancer
Engines
Twin 6.2L Mercruiser
I would like to know if there is a standard, or proper, radio call to make when requesting a bridge opening.

I generally transmit the name of the bridge, the name of my boat, the mile marker I'm passing if there is one, and a request to open the bridge.

This has always worked for me, but if there are any other suggestions I would like to hear them.
 
So on the river we always start our call with “Pleasure Craft then insert the name of your boat to name the facility “do you copy?” Then we wait for a response back then we state our request.
 
I've heard it done several ways but the standard I use is....

"(Bridge Name, Bridge Name) this is vessel (Name) just the (north, east south or west) requesting an opening." Courtesy is very important here and be sure and thank them for the opening. A simple "Thanks Bridge" as you make your way through is always appreciated.
Shawn
 
If it's a rail bridge in the Midwest - you'll get a faster response if you call using your cell phone as many of the rail bridges are remotely controlled.
 
IMG_4230.JPG
31 lift bridge, Sbw1 requesting an opening. 31 lift bridge, Sbw1 requesting an opening.
 
I always add in the VHF channel number I’m calling on. So, “(bridge name, bridge name), this is (boat name) calling on (zero nine) requesting an opening. I’m (location).” It’s possible they are monitoring multiple channels and didn’t see which one you called them on. For example, in Northern California, the signs on the bridges show you can call them on channel 9 or 16 (although I’ve never heard them answer anyone on 16). Adding the channel number ensures they respond on the same channel and you aren’t trying to talk to each other on different channels.

Dan
 
Dunno nuthin bout no proper, but here is my pattern;

"[bridge name, bridge name, bridge name], this is [boat name] approaching from your [cardinal direction]. requesting an opening."

Once through always thank them; "thank you very much, [boat name] clear"

Also, always hail the bridge tender on low power and wait until you are ready to transit before asking for an opening.
 
NorCal Boater said:
Hey Dan....do you know Bobeast?
Click to expand...

I wondered about that as well. I think we've crossed paths online. I seem to recall Dan being over at Perry's. I was at Oxbow for a while, but now live at Willow Berm.
 
Ext 3.jpg
Dan is also at Willow Berm. I was at Oxbow for about 10 years with 2 different boats. Used to have a 52' Cockpit Motor Yacht that sat in the first slip on the Guest Dock. Sold that boat about 4 years ago and the owner moved it to SoCal. Ironically, I just saw it pop on a listing in SoCal.
Shawn
 
bobeast said:
I wondered about that as well. I think we've crossed paths online. I seem to recall Dan being over at Perry's. I was at Oxbow for a while, but now live at Willow Berm.
Click to expand...

View attachment 78255 Dan is also at Willow Berm. I was at Oxbow for about 10 years with 2 different boats. Used to have a 52' Cockpit Motor Yacht that sat in the first slip on the Guest Dock. Sold that boat about 4 years ago and the owner moved it to SoCal. Ironically, I just saw it pop on a listing in SoCal.
Shawn[/QUOTE]


I’m sure bobeast and I have crossed paths. I’m at Willow Berm shed D. I used to be at Oxbow before that too. But we should plan to meet in person.

Dan
 
DanW said:
View attachment 78255 Dan is also at Willow Berm. I was at Oxbow for about 10 years with 2 different boats. Used to have a 52' Cockpit Motor Yacht that sat in the first slip on the Guest Dock. Sold that boat about 4 years ago and the owner moved it to SoCal. Ironically, I just saw it pop on a listing in SoCal.
Shawn
Click to expand...


I’m sure bobeast and I have crossed paths. I’m at Willow Berm shed D. I used to be at Oxbow before that too. But we should plan to meet in person.

Dan[/QUOTE]

Hi Dan. I'm at G11. I'll be up from New Years day to the following Sunday. If you happen to be around, stop by and I'll pour you a cup of most excellent coffee, and we can gossip about the neighbors for a bit.
 
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