National Coastwatch granted dedicated VHF channel 

The National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) has been allocated a national licence by OFCOM for the use of VHF channel 65.

VHF channel 65 will facilitate communications between National Coastwatch (NCI) lookouts and seafarers on a variety of routine matters.

The facility is scheduled to become operational on 1 October 2014 when National Coastwatch stations will go live for the first time on channel 65.

Stations will be able to respond to requests from passing, as well as local sailing craft and fishing vessels for radio checks, weather and sea state conditions.

NCI stations will also be able to provide, on request, information on a range of local facilities including, for example, local moorings, charted anchorages, water taxi contact details and local hazards.

Search and rescue remains the responsibility of the Coastguard. In the event of an emergency, distress and urgency messages should be broadcast on VHF channel 16 or dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

The National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) is an entirely voluntary organisation keeping a visual watch at 50 lookout stations along UK shores.