Source: http://www.ccg-gcc.gc.ca/Marine-Communications/RAMN-2015/Part4-Pacific-General-Procedures
Timestamp: 2017-07-24 20:41:25
Document Index: 432699682

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 4', 'art 4', 'art 4', 'art 2', 'art 1', 'ART 2', 'ART 2', 'art 2', 'art 2']

RAMN 2015 Pacific Part 4 - General Procedures - Radio Aids Marine Navigation 2015
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In the interest of safe navigation, and especially during bad weather conditions, masters should ensure that a continuous listening watch is maintained on 2182 kHz. Where practicable, and having due regard for Vessel Traffic Services, a listening watch should be maintained on VHF Ch 16 (156.8 MHz).
2182 kHz and Ch 16 (156.8 MHz) shall only be used for distress, urgency and safety communications and for calling purposes. The class of emission to be used for radiotelephony on the frequency 2182 kHz shall be J3E.
Make initial calls on any of the VHF working frequencies shown in the "Receiving" column of the MCTS Centre listing. The MCTS Centre will then respond on the corresponding frequency shown in the "Transmitting" column. It is necessary to indicate the channel number on the initial call because MCTS officers guard multiple frequencies simultaneously. Before making a call directly on a working frequency, listen for a period long enough to ensure that the channel is not in use. Follow this procedure for radio checks.
If difficulty is experienced in establishing contact with the MCTS Centre, or if contact is desired with another vessel, the initial call may be made on the calling frequency Ch 16 in which case the station called will reply on the same frequency. As soon as communication has been established a change must be made to an agreed working frequency and all further communications made on that frequency.
4.1.1.2 The following examples illustrate the procedure to be used
Structure of the initial call, when a vessel is attempting to establish communication on a working frequency with a specific station
ItemSpoken
Name of station called (spoken three times)
PRINCE RUPERT COAST GUARD RADIO
The words "THIS IS"
Type, name, radio call sign of vessel calling (spoken three times).
STEAMER FAIRMOUNT CYLD
Table 4-2 - Initial call, when a vessel wishes to establish communications with any station within range (or within a certain area)
Structure of the initial call, when a vessel wishes to establish communications with any station within range (or within a certain area)
General call (spoken three times).
ALL STATIONS (or ALL SHIPS IN JOHNSTONE STRAITS)
Type, name and radio call sign of vessel calling (spoken three times).
TANKER IMPERIAL CORNWALL/VCVC
A radio message from a ship consists of several parts, which shall be transmitted on the working frequency in the following order:
the date and time the message originated (preferably in UTC. Daylight Saving Time shall not be used)[ Date and time may be sent as one group, the first two figures indicate the date, the last four the time.];
the text or body of the message; and
Items a) and b) taken together, are known as the "preamble".
An example of a ship to shore radio message
FROM M/V WEST WIND, CALL SIGN V2AG
071225UTC
1600 UTC REPORT, ANCHORED IN MACKENZIE BAY AWAITING ICEBREAKER SUPPORT.
While it is not practical to lay down precise words and phrases for all radiotelephone procedures, the following should be used where applicable:
The following practical terms should be used where applicable
TermsMeaning
An error has been made in this transmission. The correct version is.....
This conversation is ended and no response is expected.
After I have given OVER, repeat this entire message back to me exactly as received.
Receipt of your message number..... is acknowledged.
Wait until you hear further from me.
Check with the originator and send the correct version.
As a request - Please send each word twice.As information - I will send each word twice.
4.1.1.3 How are you using your marine radio?
There are over 150 thousand licensed radio stations in British Columbia. Each of these stations is assigned specific frequencies to suit their unique requirements. For the most part, clear and unobstructed communications on the airwaves is possible because most observe the rules that govern radio operation.
But, a serious problem has developed in the use of synthesized two-way radio on board vessels on the West Coast. Certain vessel operators are selecting unauthorized channels on synthesized radio. This is causing sever interference to land based municipal services. In such cases, Industry Canada intends to lay charges under the Radiocommunication Act and the Radiocommunication Regulations.
Your cooperation in using only assigned marine channels is very important. Your safety, and the safety of others, depends on it.
4.1.1.4 Phonetic Alphabet
List of phonetic alphabet
AlphabetPhonetic equivalentAlphabetPhonetic equivalent
4.1.1.5 Times
4.1.1.6 Time Zone Comparison
NST Newfoundland Standard TimeAST Atlantic Standard Time EST Eastern Standard Time CST Central Standard Time MST Mountain Standard Time PST Pacific Standard Time
Table 4-5 - Time Zone Comparison
UTCNSTASTESTCSTMSTPST
4.1.1.7 Time Signals
Canada’s official time is the responsibility of the National Research Council’s Institute for National Measurement Standards, Ottawa, ON. Its short wave radio station CHU, with transmitters located at 45º17’47”N 075 45’22”W is equipped with vertical antennas to give the best possible coverage to the maximum number of Canadian users. The signal is transmitted continuously on 3330 kHz, 7850 kHz and 14670 kHz, upper single-sideband H3E (AM compatible). A cesium atomic clock generates the carrier frequencies (accurate to a part in 1011) and the UTC seconds pulses (accurate to 50 microseconds). The start of each UTC second is marked by the start of 300 cycles of a 1000 Hz tone, with certain omissions and identifications. Every half-minute is marked by omitting the preceding tone (for second 29). In the 9 seconds preceding each minute, the second pulses are shortened to “ticks’ to provide a window for the voice announcement, followed by a longer tone. The start of this tone marks the exact minute given by the announcement. This tone is one-half second long, except for the exact hour - when it is one full second long and in this case only is followed by 9 seconds of silence.
A small number of the longer time announcements use the abbreviation “UTC” rather than the full form.
It is always best to consider the “worst-case scenario” and to alert SAR authorities accordingly. This notification places no obligations upon the master except to advise the Canadian Coast Guard when the situation has been corrected.
a station in the vicinity of the distressed craft must acknowledge receipt of the distress message if received, giving its own position in relation to that of the craft in distress and stating the action being taken.
threatened by serious and imminent danger and requires immediate assistance; or
aware of another ship, aircraft, other vehicle or person is threatened by serious and imminent danger and requires immediate assistance.
that a Tsunami warning, preceded by the Urgency Signal (PAN PAN) is about to follow; or,
The Alarm Signal transmitted by the coast radio station will normally be sent for a period not exceeding thirty (30) seconds and will be followed by a ten (10) second continuous tone.
The Distress Signal consists of the word "MAYDAY".
the word "MAYDAY" (spoken three times);
the words "THIS IS" followed by;
the call sign or other identification, and
any other useful information which might assist the rescue; and,
The DSC Distress Alert Acknowledgement to an "All Stations" DSC Distress Alert announcement shall normally be made by a MCTS Centre.
the master or person responsible for the craft carrying the station which intervenes believes that further help is necessary;
the radiotelephone Alarm Signal if possible;
the words, “ALL STATIONS” or specific MCTS Centre, as appropriate (spoken three times);
the call sign or other identification of the mobile station repeating the distress message;
the repetition of the distress message;
When Distress Traffic has ceased or when silence is no longer necessary the station that has controlled the Distress Traffic must transmit a message on the distress frequency advising that the distress traffic has ceased:
the current Coordinated Universal Time (UTC);
the words “SEELONCE FEENEE”;
Then, on the associated distress and calling frequency, the following distress call and distress message should be spoken slowly and distinctly.
An example of a distress message
"MAYDAY" (three times).
"Nonsuch" (three times).
"316010115" (if initial distress alert was sent by DSC).
"MAYDAY".
"Nonsuch".
"Off Iles-St-Marie".
"Struck rock and taking on water".
"Require help to abandon ship".
"5 persons on board".
Invitation to acknowledge and reply
The Urgency Signal consists of the words "PAN PAN".
the ship’s MMSI (if the initial Urgency announcement was sent by DSC).
The urgency signal shall be transmitted only on the authority of the master or the person responsible for the ship, aircraft or other vehicle carrying the mobile station.
The urgency signal, the urgency call, and the urgency message shall be sent on the distress frequencies 2182 kHz and Ch 16 (156.8 MHz). If transmission on these frequencies is impossible, any other available frequency on which attention might be attracted should be used.
The Safety Signal consists of the word "SÉCURITÉ".
the station’s MMSI (if the initial announcement was sent by DSC);
the channel or frequency for the Safety broadcast;
The safety call is transmitted on the distress frequencies 2182 kHz and Ch 16 (156.8 MHz). If transmission on these frequencies is impossible, any other available frequency on which attention might be attracted shall be used.
ATHABASCA – MACKENZIE WATERSHED AREA: DISTRESS, URGENCY, SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS – USE OF 5803 kHz
For the provision of relay or assistance in communication to a land station or other vessel, the Canadian Coast Guard will provide, during the shipping season, 24 hour receive and transmit facilities on 5803 kHz from MCTS Iqaluit/VFF.
Marine radio beacons generally operate in the 285 - 325 kHz. Radio beacon service enables ships fitted with direction finding equipment to take a bearing or to take several consecutive bearings which will provide a fix. See Part 2 for details on individual listings.
Inmarsat-C terminals receive Enhanced Group Call (EGC) – SafetyNET broadcasts for areas outside NAVTEX coverage;
High Frequency narrow-band-direct-printing (HF NBDP) receivers may be used where service is available to promulgate MSI in areas outside Inmarsat coverage.
4.2.1.4 GMDSS Sea Areas – International
Table 4-7 - Four "Sea Areas" defined in the GMDSS
A description of the four "Sea Areas" as defined in the GMDSS
Sea AreaDescription
Within range of shore-based VHF/DSC coast station (40 nautical miles).
Within range of shore-based MF/DSC coast station (excluding sea areas A1) (150 nautical miles).
Within the coverage of an Inmarsat geostationary satellite (approximately 70°N to 70°S) (excluding sea areas A1 & A2).
The remaining areas outside sea areas A1, A2 & A3 (polar regions).
4.2.1.5 GMDSS Sea Areas – Canada
In Canada, as a result of consultations with the Canadian marine industry, it has been decided to implement sea areas A1 on the east and west coasts. Outside of A1 will be an A3 sea area with an A4 sea area in the Arctic.
Consideration was given to the implementation of an A2 sea area, but due to budgetary constraints and the marine industry’s preference for sea areas A1 and A3, sea area A2 is not being planned at this time.
4.2.1.6 Communications between GMDSS Vessels & Non-GMDSS Vessels
Since February 1, 1999, GMDSS larger ships have been maintaining an automated listening watch on VHF/DSC Ch 70 and MF/DSC 2187.5 kHz. This at times creates the situation, where vessels fitted with traditional, non-GMDSS radio equipment, may have had difficulties alerting or contacting a GMDSS ship. The Canadian Coast Guard is addressing this by monitoring both GMDSS and traditional distress frequencies. Furthermore, the Canadian Coast Guard and Transport Canada encourage all vessels to fit VHF/DSC in the interest of increased safety.
After having received a distress, urgency or safety broadcast announcement on VHF/DSC Ch 70 the VHF/DSC equipment will automatically switch the DSC radio to VHF Ch 16 for the subsequent voice announcements. Mariners who are required by the VHF Practices and Procedures Regulations to monitor a specific VTS sector frequency should return the radio to the appropriate working frequency after determining, on Ch 16, the impact of the VHF/DSC alert broadcast announcement on their vessel's’ operations.
Vessels inadvertently or accidentally transmitting a distress/urgency/safety broadcast on VHF/DSC must cancel the distress/urgency/safety broadcast on VHF Ch 16. Intentionally sending a false distress alert carries penalties under both the Canada Shipping Act 2001 and the Radiocommunication Act.
VHF/DSC equipment must be programmed with the correct Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) numbers (reference Section 4.3.12 “Radio Station Licensing and MMSI Numbers”, also reference Part 1, Section 14 for the MCTS Centres’ MMSI numbers).
4.2.1.8 Canadian Coast Guard Marine Communications and Traffic Services (MCTS) Centres
To help ease the transition to GMDSS and bridge the communication gap between the two systems, Canadian Coast Guard MCTS Centres will continue to monitor the current distress and safety channels VHF Ch 16 and MF 2182 kHz for the foreseeable future. Once Canada’s sea areas have all been implemented, lower cost DSC equipment is available, and it is determined that these services are no longer required, these listening watches may be discontinued. This decision will be evaluated at that time.
The Canadian Coast Guard national VHF-DSC (digital selective calling) network controlled by MCTS Centres can process VHF-DSC “Test Calls” from vessels provided that the marine radio meets the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) standard Recommendation M.493-11 (or higher) “Digital selective-calling system for use in the maritime mobile service”.
The Canadian Coast Guard VHF-DSC equipment is configured to automatically acknowledge VHF-DSC test calls within seconds of receipt provided that the MCTS Centre VHF-DSC equipment is not processing higher priority DSC calls.
4.2.2 Long-Range Identification and Tracking of Vessels Regulations (LRIT)3
[3] Reference: SOR/2010-227
"cargo vessel""cargo vessel" means a vessel that is not a passenger vessel and is of 300 tons gross tonnage or more."international voyage""international voyage" means a voyage between a port in one country and a port in another country, but does not include a voyage solely on the Great Lakes, the St. Lawrence River and their connecting and tributary waters as far east as the lower exit of the St. Lambert Lock at Montréal."LRIT equipment""LRIT equipment" means information-transmitting equipment for the long-range identification and tracking of a vessel."LRIT information""LRIT information" means the information referred to in section 5."Minister""Minister" means the Minister of Transport."passenger vessel""passenger vessel" means a vessel that carries more than 12 passengers."sea area A1", "sea area A2", "sea area A3" and "sea area A4""sea area A1", "sea area A2", "sea area A3" and "sea area A4" have the meanings assigned by regulation 2.1 of Chapter IV of SOLAS."SOLAS""SOLAS" means the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, and the Protocol of 1988 relating to the Convention, as amended from time to time.
the day on which assembly of the vessel reaches the lesser of 50 tonnes and 1% of the estimated mass of all structural material.
2. (1) These Regulations apply in respect of Canadian vessels everywhere if they:
(2) These Regulations do not apply in respect of:
(4) For the purpose of subsection (3), inspection of a vessel's radio installation occurs when it is inspected as required by section 51 of the Ship Station (Radio) Technical Regulations, 1999.
the vessel's position, particularly its latitude and longitude; and
"should" shall be read to mean "shall"; and
"Administration" shall be read to mean "Minister".
(2) The vessel's master may switch off the LRIT equipment
in exceptional circumstances and for the shortest duration possible when the equipment's operation is considered by the vessel's master to compromise the safety or security of the vessel.
(3) If the master switches off the LRIT equipment in the case provided for by paragraph (2)(b), the master shall
without undue delay inform a Marine Communications and Traffic Services centre of the Canadian Coast Guard and, if the vessel is in the waters of a contracting government, the relevant maritime authority of that government; and
(2) While a vessel is undergoing repairs, modifications or conversions in dry dock or in port or is laid up, the vessel's master may, on his or her own initiative, and shall, if directed to do so by the Minister,
(2) A vessel's master shall ensure that a proof of type approval or a certificate issued under subsection (1) for the LRIT equipment fitted on the vessel to meet the requirements of section 4 is
It is recommended that a float-free EPIRB be carried on board ships and pleasure crafts operating offshore. To be effective, 406 MHz EPIRBs must be registered with the Canadian Beacon Registry by telephone at 1-800-406-7671; facsimile 1-877-406-3298; or, on the Canadian Beacon Registry Website. You may also reach the Canadian Beacon Registry by email at cbr@sarnet.dnd.ca
Inmarsat discontinued their monitoring service of Inmarsat "E" EPIRB distress alerts as of December 1, 2006.
Mariners should check with Inmarsat for exchange of any currently held Inmarsat "E" EPIRBs. Further, mariners should only purchase and fit COSPAS-SARSAT 406 MHz EPIRBs.
A list of 406 MHz EPIRBs approved for use in Canada is available on the Transport Canada Website.
EquipmentSea Area A1 or VHF
VHF Radio with DSC (SSRR)
Yes (Ships ≥20m and certified to carry >12 passengers, or ships ≥300gt)
unless ship operates within a VTS Zone, then will have until January 31, 2003, or until the sea area A1 is completed, whichever is latest.
by February 1, 2003, or after sea area A1 completed, whichever is latest
exempted are ships on a home-trade voyage, class IV in a VTS Zone -current VHF radiotelephone provisions remain in effect until then.
MF/HF Radio with DSC and NBDP (SSRR)
No (Ships ≥20m and certified to carry >12 passengers, or ships ≥300gt)
NAVTEX Receiver (no change to current requirement – SSRR)
EPIRB (float-free) (SSRR)
if tug >5gt and <20 m if voyage >50 miles long and >2 miles from shore
if ≥ 8m and go beyond home-trade III voyage limits on April 1, 2002 (Note: EPIRB does not have to be float-free if less than 15gt)
(SSRR, Life Saving Equipment Regulations, Large Fishing Vessel Inspection Regulations, and Small Fishing Vessel Inspection Regulations)
(Life Saving Equipment Regulations, Large Fishing Vessel Inspection Regulations)
3 are required, unless ship is certified to carry≤12 passengers and is <500gt, then carry 2 (new requirement for ships on home-trade voyages, class III).
Table 4-9 Sea Area A3
EquipmentSea Area A3
Radar Transponder(s) (SARTs)(SSRR, Life Saving Equipment Regulations, Large Fishing Vessel Inspection Regulations, and Small Fishing Vessel Inspection Regulations)
2 are required, unless ship is certified to carry ≤ 12 passengers and is <500gt, then carry 1
Table 4-10 Sea Area A4
EquipmentSea Area A4
DSC: digital selective callingEGC: enhanced group callingNBDP: narrow band direct printing
Additional requirements: emergency procedures card, operating and routine maintenance manuals, consumable spare parts, radio publications, time piece, weather facsimile (Arctic), spare antennas (some ships > 20m).
GMDSS Operating Guidance for Masters of Ships in Distress Situations; and
Alerting the Search and Rescue Authorities.
Figure 4-1 GMDSS Operating Guidance for masters of ships in Distress situations
The need for the earliest possible alerting of the search and rescue (SAR) co-ordination authority to maritime emergencies cannot be over-emphasized.
Factors to be considered include position (in relation to hazards and to shore-based or other SAR units); time of day; weather conditions (actual & forecast); the number of persons at risk or potentially at risk; specific assistance required, etc.
Operating guidance for masters of ships in distress or urgency situations [To be considered in conjunction with IMO publication 969 - GMDSS Operating Guidance for Masters of Ships in Distress Situations (COM/Circ.108 of 23 January 1992).]
Figure 4-2 Operating guidance for masters of ships in distress or urgency situations
“Instructions for Mariners and Others on How to Cancel a False Alert” (appendix to IMO Resolution A.814(19) entitled Guidelines for the Avoidance of False Distress Alerts);
4.2.5.3 Instructions for Mariners and Others4 on How to Cancel a False Distress Alert5
[Appendix to IMO Resolution A.814(19)]
switch off transmitter immediately6
make broadcast to "All Stations" giving the ship's name, call sign and MMSI number, and cancel the false distress alert.
All Stations, All Stations, All Stations This is NAME, CALL SIGNMMSI NUMBER, POSITION
Cancel my distress alert of DATE, TIME UTC = Master NAME, CALL SIGN MMSI NUMBER, DATE, TIME UTC
switch off equipment immediately7;
Cancel my distress alert of DATE, TIME UTC, = Master NAME, CALL SIGN MMSI NUMBER, DATE, TIME UTC.
4 Appropriate signals should precede these messages in accordance with the ITU Radio Regulations Chapter N1X.5 Appendix to IMO Resolution A.814 (19)6 This applies when the false alert is detected during transmission.7 This applies when the false alert is detected during transmission.
NAME, CALL SIGN, IDENTITY NUMBER POSITION Cancel my Inmarsat-C distress alert of DATE, TIME UTC = Master +
Notwithstanding the above, ships may use any means available to them to inform the appropriate authorities that a false distress alert has been transmitted and should be cancelled.
No action will normally be taken against any ship or mariner for reporting and cancelling a false distress alert. However, in view of the serious consequences of false alerts, and the strict ban on their transmission, Governments may prosecute in cases of repeated violations.
4.2.6 Procedure for Responding to DSC Distress Alerts by Ships
Distress relays
All coast stations call
Figure 4-4 Flow Diagram 1 (COMSAR/Cir.25)
Figure 4-5 Flow Diagram 2 (COMSAR/Cir.25)
Text description of Figure 4-5 Flow diagram 2 COMSAR/Cir.25
Figure 4-6 Distress and safety radiotelephone procedures
The AMVER System, operated by the United States Coast Guard, is a maritime mutual assistance program that provides important aid to the development and coordination of search and rescue (SAR) efforts in the oceans of the world. Merchant vessels of all nations making offshore passages of more than 24 hours are encouraged to send sail plans and periodic position reports to the AMVER Center in Martinsburg, WV. There is no charge for these radio messages when they are sent through MCTS Centres. Information from these messages is entered into a computer that generates and maintains dead reckoning positions for participating vessels throughout their voyages. The predicted locations and SAR characteristics of all vessels known to be within a given area are furnished upon request to recognized SAR agencies of any nation for use during an emergency. Predicted vessels’ locations are disclosed only for reasons related to maritime safety.
reduced number of calls for assistance to vessels not favourably located;
Details of AMVER System operations may be obtained from AMVER Maritime Relations Office, U.S Coast Guard, Battery Park Building, 1 South Street, New York, NY 10004-1499 (Telephone: 212-668-7764, Fax 212-668-7684). AMVER instructions are also available at Coast Guard Captain of the Port and Marine Safety Offices in major United States coastal ports. The instructions are published in the following languages: Chinese, Danish, Dutch, English, French, German, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish, and Swedish. Requests for instructions should state the language desired if other than English. AMVER Website. Ship Station (Radio) Technical Regulations, 1999 now specify compulsory participation in AMVER for certain ships when departing on an offshore voyage of more than 24 hours duration.
Sail plan message should be sent on or before departure;
Position Reports should be sent within twenty-four hours of departure and subsequently no less frequently than every forty-eight hours until arrival;
Arrival Reports should be sent immediately prior to or upon arrival at the Port of Destination;
Reports are to be sent during the Radio Officer’s normal duty hours; and
As previous AMVER participants will note, the format described below represents a change which serves two purposes: First, the new format will permit the automated data processing system to enter your information into AMVER more accurately and efficiently. Second, the new format conforms with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) proposed standard, thus reducing the number of different formats in use. As other systems also adopt the IMO format, we will have moved closer to a single format worldwide.
The following methods are recommended for ships to transmit AMVER Sail Plan, Position, Deviation and Arrival reports. Details are available on the AMVER Website. Electronic Mail via the Internet AMVER address is: amvermsg@amver.com
AMVER/SEAS “Compressed Message” via Inmarsat-C viaTELENOR: AMVER address: NOAA telephone number entered in the ADDRESSBOOK. For information, please see the instruction sheet for your brand of Inmarsat-C transceiver. AMVER/SEAS software can be downloaded from the Internet at: AMVERSEAS Software.
TELENOR Satellite Services 1101 Wootton Parkway Rockville, Maryland 20852 1-301-838-7800
HF Radiotelex Service of U.S. Coast Guard Communications Stations: Full information on how to send AMVER messages this way can be found at www.navcen.uscg.gov.
Telefax: To the USCG Operations Systems Center in Martinsburg: 1-304-264-2505
If messages are relayed through Canadian Coast Guard Ships no ship charge will be assessed. All AMVER messages forwarded via the stations listed should be addressed to AMVER Vancouver, rather than COAST GUARD New York, to ensure that no charge is applied in delivery.
There are four types of AMVER Reports - Sail, Arrival, Position, and Deviation Reports.
AMVER/SP// Sail Plan & Departure AMVER/PR// Position Report AMVER/FR// Final Arrival Report AMVER/DR// Deviation Report
AMVER also needs other information which might be useful in an emergency. This includes data such as the ship length, communications equipment, radio watch schedule, speed, rig, and so forth. This information is collected separately once, by completion of the Search and Rescue Questionnaire (SAR-Q) found on the AMVER Website which is then retained in the automatic data processing system, periodically validated, and used only for search-and-rescue purposes.
Sail Plan & Departure Report. The “L” lines contain routing and “turnpoint” information needed by AMVER. AMVER needs data about every intended turnpoint, but also accepts information about any points along the intended track, even though they might not be turnpoints. Turnpoint information is needed by AMVER to maintain plot accuracy.
Sail Plan & Departure Report Example
A /vessel/name/International Radio/Call Sign//
G /port of departure/latitude//longitude// (2)
I /port of destination/latitude//longitude/estimated timeof arrival//(1) (2) (3)
L / ...... route information ...// (1) (3) (4)
Z // end of report
M /current coastal radio station//next coastal radio station, if any//
Table 4-12 Final Arrival Report Example
Final Arrival Report
Table 4-13 Position Report Example
Z //end of report
E /current course // (5)
F /average speed // (6)
Table 4-14 Example of a Deviation Report used to report sail plan and other changes
Required AMVER /DR//
One or more of the following optional items B /intended time of departure// (1)
I /port of destination/latitude/longitude/estimated time ofarrival//(1) (2) (3)
L /........ route information ....// (1) (3) (4)
For example: C/4000N/03500W//
L/RL/125/0258N/07710W/ABACO/111200Z// L/RL/125/0251N/07910W/NWPROVCHAN/112145Z// L/RL/125/0248N/08020W/120255Z// L/RL/125//
NAVIGATION METHOD IS REQUIRED. It is either “GC” for great circle, or “RL” for rhumb line. LEG SPEED is useful, but is not required. See footnote (6). LATITUDE LONGITUDE IS REQUIRED. See footnote (3). PORT OR LANDMARK NAME is useful, but is not required. ETA IS REQUIRED. See footnote (1). ESTIMATED TIME OF DEPARTURE IS REQUIRED, if the ship will lay over at the intermediate point.
If the optional "V" line is used, one or more of the following is required:
/MD/ for physician /PA/ for physician's assistant /NURSE/ for nurse /NONE/ For example: V/DOCTOR/NURSE//
Since May 2000 the Canadian Coast Guard DGPS service has been available from 19 DGPS stations located on the East and West coasts of Canada and parts of the Great Lakes. DGPS corrections are broadcast from medium frequency (MF) radiobeacon transmitters located to cover selected marine areas and waterways. The broadcasts are in accordance with international standards for radiobeacon DGPS services. DGPS provides continuous precise positioning of better than 10 metres for 95% or better of the time (provided that suitable DGPS receiver equipment is utilized, properly installed and maintained).
Additional information on the use of the DGPS service will be announced through Notices to Mariners. General information is also available from the Canadian Coast Guard Website: DGPS Website.
The table that follows provides information on existing DGPS broadcasts. A list of United States Coast Guard (USCG) DGPS transmitters providing coverage in Canadian waters may be obtained directly from the USCG website.
Figure 4-7 shows the nominal coverage from existing broadcast stations. Users should be aware that coverage is subject to short and long term variations due to environmental and seasonal conditions.
Table 4-15 Canadian Coast Guard DGPS Broadcasts Pacific Coast
Canadian Coast Guard DGPS BroadcastsPacific Coast
Station NameLocation NAD 83Frequency and Transmission RateIALA Reference Station IDIALA Radio Beacon IDRemarks
50°35′N 126°55′W
48°55′N 125°33′W
49°06′N 123°11′W
53°14′N 131°49′W
Figure 4-7 - DGPS coverage - Pacific Region
Pursuant to the Marine Transportation Security Regulations, the following pre-arrival information requirement does not apply to vessels operating solely on the Great Lakes or to the portions of a vessel’s voyage on the Great Lakes after pre-arrival information has been given prior to its entrance into the St. Lawrence Seaway, neither, to fishing vessels, pleasure craft and government vessels.
The master of the following vessels, engaged on a voyage from a port in one country to a port in another country:
SOLAS vessel of 500 tons gross tonnage or more or is carrying more than 12 passengers;
NON-SOLAS vessel that is more than 100 tons gross tonnage, other than a towing vessel;
NON-SOLAS vessel that carries more than 12 passengers; or
NON-SOLAS vessel that is a towing vessel engaged in towing a barge astern or alongside or pushing ahead, if the barge is carrying certain dangerous cargoes.
shall ensure their vessel does not enter Canadian waters unless the master submits their pre-arrival information to a Canadian Marine Communications and Traffic Services (MCTS) centre before entering Canadian waters.
All pre-arrival information must be provided at least 96 hours prior to entering Canadian waters unless the total duration of the voyage before entering Canadian waters is less than 96 hours in which case the notification must be provided at least 24 hours prior to entering Canadian waters.
If the duration of the segment of the voyage before entering Canadian waters is less than 24 hours, vessels are required to send a pre-arrival report as soon as practicable before entering Canadian waters but no later than the time of departure from their last port of call.
The Pre-Arrival Information must be sent to one of the addresses below:
Vessels planning to enter Canadian waters inbound to a Canadian port on the West Coast shall send pre-arrival information to Transport Canada Marine Security Operations Centre:
Email: marsecw@tc.gc.ca
Vessels planning to enter Canadian waters inbound to a Canadian port on the East Coast including a Canadian or American port in the Great Lakes shall send pre-arrival information to ECAREG Canada via one of the following methods listed below:
Halifax MCTS Centre Facsimile: 902-426-4483 Telegraphic Identifier: CCG MRHQ DRT Email: hlxecareg1@innav.gc.ca
Vessels planning to enter Canadian waters inbound to a Canadian port within the Canadian Arctic Zone shall send pre-arrival information to NORDREG Canada via one of the following methods listed below:
Iqaluit MCTS Centre Telephone: 1-867-979-5724 Facsimile: 1-867-979-4264 Telex (Telefax): 063-15529 Telegraphic Identifier: NORDREG CDA Email: iqanordreg@innav.gc.ca Operational from approximately mid-May to late December
Prescott MCTS Centre Telephone: 1-613-925-4471 Facsimile: 1-613-925-4519 Email: iqanordreg@innav.gc.ca Operational from approximately late December to mid-May
It is the responsibility of the Master of the vessel to ensure all information provided to the Government of Canada (Transport Canada) in the pre-arrival information is complete and accurate. Masters of vessels subject to the Marine Transportation Security Regulations (as described above) failing to submit or submitting an incomplete or inaccurate pre-arrival information risk subjecting their vessel to control actions such as, but not limited to: inspection, detention, redirection or expulsion from Canadian waters.
Vessels can obtain a blank template of the 96 hour pre-arrival report by sending an email to 96@tc.gc.ca
The Master of a vessel shall ensure that the following pre-arrival information in respect of the vessel is reported:
the name of its classification society;
the date of issuance, date of expiry and name of the issuing body of its International Ship Security Certificate, Canadian Vessel Security Certificate, or ship security compliance document;
details of any security threats to the vessel during the last ten calls at marine facilities;
a statement as to whether the vessel consents to tracking by the Canadian Government;
if applicable, the name of its agent and their 24-hour telephone and facsimile numbers;
its position and time at which it reached that position;
its destination and estimated time of arrival at its destination;
a general description of the cargo, including cargo amount; and
if applicable, the presence and description of any dangerous substances or devices on board.
If the master reported pre-arrival information more than 24 hours before entering Canadian waters, the master of a vessel shall ensure that the vessel does not enter Canadian waters unless the master reports any change in that information 24 hours before entering Canadian waters to the MCTS Centre in accordance with the instructions set out in the most recent edition of the Canadian Coast Guard Radio Aids to Marine Navigation.
It is recommended that a complete copy of the vessel’s Interim International Ship Security Certificate (IISSC), International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC), Interim Canadian Vessel Security Certificate (ICVSC), Canadian Vessel Security Certificate (CVSC) or Ship Security Compliance document, and any pages containing the Endorsement information, is to be included with the Pre Arrival Information Report.
Notices to Shipping (NOTSHIPs) issued for the west coast of Canada and the Arctic are assigned an alphanumeric designator. The alphanumeric designator consists of an alpha character which identifies the Canadian Coast Guard NOTSHIP issuing authority. The alpha character is followed by a number commencing with the number 001 on January 1 each year and subsequently increases throughout the year. Alpha designators utilized in Canadian NOTSHIPs are as follows:
A – ArcticP – Western H – Athabasca-Mackenzie Watershed
Broadcast times and radio frequencies for NOTSHIP broadcasts by Canadian Coast Guard MCTS Centres are listed in PART 2 of this publication.
Table 4-16 Distribution of Written Notices to Shipping
DesignatorNOTSHIP AuthorityInternet
Central & Arctic Region NOTSHIP Website
Western Region NOTSHIP Website
Notices to Mariners contain information which serves to correct charts and related publications. Up-to-date information is available to vessels inbound for Canadian waters on any changes which have occurred between the date of issue of the most recent monthly edition of Canadian Notices to Mariners held on board. Vessels wishing to avail themselves of this service should send their request directly to VTS.RUPERT@INNAV.GC.CA or NORDREG CANADA. Requests may also be routed via any MCTS Centre as listed in PART 2 of this document.
Ice information, ice routing and icebreaker assistance may be obtained from the Northern Canada Vessel Traffic Services (NORDREG CANADA). Refer to Notice Number 6 of the Annual Edition, Notices to Mariners or the publication “Ice Navigation in Canadian Waters” for additional information.
NAVTEX Service is available from transmitting sites
Controlled bySitePositionRange (NM)ID518 kHz(English)ID490 kHz(French)
Prince Rupert MCTS
48°55'N 125°32'W
54°17'N 130°25'W
Iqaluit MCTS
Iqaluit 63°43'N 068°33'W
(A) Navigational Warnings(B) Meteorological Warnings(C) Ice Reports(D) Search and Rescue Information/Tsunami(E) Meteorological forecasts(G) AIS Service Messages(J) GPS Messages
Figure 4-8 - NAVTEX Coverage Western Region
Text description of Figure 4-8 NAVTEX Coverage Western Region
Figure 4-9 - Canadian A3/A4 GMDSS Sea Areas Theoretical Coverage
Text description of Figure 4-9 Canadian A3/A4 GMDSS Sea Areas Theoretical Coverage
Figure 4-10 - VHF DSC System Radio Coverage Prediction - Pacific Ocean
Test description of Figure 4-10 VHF DSC System Radio Coverage Prediction Pacific Ocean
The Canadian Coast Guard has assumed the responsibility of NAVAREA coordination for NAVAREAs XVII and XVIII as part of the World-Wide Navigational Warning Service (WWNWS). The service was declared to be in "Full Operational Condition" as of June 1, 2011.
NAVAREA XVII (POR): 11:30 UTC and 23:30 UTC NAVAREA XVIII (AOR-W): 11:00 UTC and 23:00 UTC
During the Arctic navigational season, NAVAREA XVII and XVIII warnings applicable to the Canadian Search and Rescue boundaries for waters North of 70 degrees latitude are broadcast (with limits to coverage area and reliability) using High Frequency Narrow Band Direct Printing (HF-NBDP) on 8416.5 kHz at 03:30 UTC and 15:30 UTC. Refer to Iqaluit MCTS, Part 2 for details about the broadcast content.
NAVAREA XVII and XVIII Prescott MCTS Centre Telephone: 1-613-925-0666 Facsimile: 1-613-925-4519 Email: navarea17.18@innav.gc.ca
The United States of America is responsible for NAVAREAS IV and XII.
NAVAREA IV covers the North Atlantic Ocean West of 35°W and north of 7°N. NAVAREA IV warnings are broadcasts over the AOR-W satellite at 10:00 UTC and 22:00 UTC. Ice reports for the North Atlantic are broadcast at 12:00 UTC. NAVAREA IV warnings are broadcast over NBDP from: Boston (NMF) at 01:40 UTC on 6314 kHz, 8416.5 kHz and 12579 kHz (FIB) and at 16:30 UTC on 8416.5 kHz, 12579 kHz, and 16806.5 kHz (FIB).
NAVAREA XII covers the North Pacific Ocean east of 180° and north of the equator, plus the area north of 3°25’S and east of 120°W. NAVAREA XII warnings are broadcasts over the POR satellite at 10:30 UTC and 22:3 0UTC. These messages are broadcast over NBDP by Honolulu (NMO) at 03:30 and 17:30 UTC daily, on 8416.5 kHz 12579 kHz, and 22376 kHz (FIB).
Consult the publication NP283 (2) Admiralty List of Radio Signals Volume 3 Part 2, for the listing of all NAVAREA Coordinators and broadcast schedules.
The NAVAREA warning system should normally be sufficient for the ships which proceed along the main oceanic routes of an Area. However, in some waters knowledge of the coastal warnings may prove necessary.
Figure 4-11 - World-wide navigational warning service - NAVAREAs
Text description of Figure 4-11 World-wide navigational warning service NAVAREAs
4.3.4 Cellular Phone (*16) Service – Marine Emergencies
MCTS Centres in certain parts of Canada are connected to the cellular telephone network system where cellular telephone users can, in an emergency situation only, dial *16 or #16 (dependent upon the service provider) on their cellular telephone to access a MCTS Centre in order to obtain assistance.
Mariners are reminded that the use of marine radio distress frequencies to obtain assistance in an emergency situation is the best option and that cellular phone should be used only as an alternative should the VHF radiotelephone set not be available. Standard distress alerting equipment, such as marine radio and EPIRBs should never be replaced by cellular telephone alone.
All small craft operators, including those making day trips, are encouraged to file a Sail Plan with a responsible person. This person should be instructed to call the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) if the vessel becomes overdue. The telephone number can be found at the front of most telephone books and should be included with the Sail Plan. In circumstances where it is not possible to file a Sail Plan with a responsible person, a Sail Plan may be filed by telephone, radio or in person with any Coast Guard MCTS Centre. While at sea, masters/operators who have filed a sail plan with a MCTS Centre are encouraged to file a daily position report during long trips. Upon your return, be sure to close (or deactivate) the sail plan you filed earlier. Forgetting to do so can result in an unwarranted search for you.
The information to be provided should be in accordance with the listing below:
radios and channels monitored (MF / HF / VHF);
number of lifejackets, PFDs and/or survival suits;
estimated date and time of arrival at destination; and
The Canadian Forces (CF) in co-operation with the Canadian Coast Guard has overall responsibility for coordination of federal aeronautical and maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) activities in Canada, including Canadian waters and the high seas off the coasts of Canada. The CF provides dedicated SAR aircraft in support to marine SAR incidents. The Canadian Coast Guard coordinates maritime SAR activities within this area and provides dedicated maritime SAR vessels in strategic locations. Joint Rescue Coordination Centres (JRCC) are maintained at Victoria, BC, Trenton, ON and Halifax, NS. These centres are staffed 24 hours a day by Canadian Forces and Canadian Coast Guard personnel. Each JRCC is responsible for an internationally agreed upon designated area known as a Search and Rescue Region (SRR). In addition, a Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre (MRSC), staffed by Canadian Coast Guard personnel is maintained at Québec, QC to coordinate local marine SAR operations.
Telephone: 1-800-567-5111 British Columbia and Yukon250-413-8933 Satellite, Local or out of area# 727 CellularEmail: jrccvictoria@sarnet.dnd.ca
Telephone: 1-800-267-7270 In Canada613-965-3870 Satellite, Local or out of areaFacsimile: 613-965-7279Email: jrcctrenton@sarnet.dnd.ca
4.3.7.1 - Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (also known as Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue in British Columbia)
The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (CCGA) or Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue (RCM-SAR) is an association of approximately 4500 dedicated volunteers operating close to 1300 vessels to support the Canadian Coast Guard in Marine Search and Rescue.
For more information on maritime SAR services in Canada, refer to Section 28 of the Annual Edition of Notices to Mariners, published by the Canadian Coast Guard, Marine Navigation Services.
4.3.8.1 Messages no longer accepted
ships' business messages;
4.3.8.2 Messages handled without charge by MCTS Centres
messages addressed to a port or a member of the Canadian Coast Guard that involves a report of a ship movement, position or condition;
messages requesting a doctor to meet the ship on arrival.
4.3.8.3 Weather Messages
4.3.8.4 Pollution Messages
4.3.8.5 Medical Advice Messages
In the following circumstances only, the person in charge of a vessel shall, by radio, at least 24 hours prior to the vessel's estimated time of arrival at its port of destination, notify or cause the notification of a quarantine officer at the quarantine station designated in paragraph (3) for that port of the occurrence.
Where, in the course of a voyage of a vessel:
fever or chills (profuse sweating, unusually flushed or pale skin, shivering; and
the port of destination of the vessel and the name of the vessel's owner or, if the owner is not in Canada, the name of the vessel's agent in Canada;
For the purposes of paragraph (1), the quarantine station for vessels bound for a port in the Province of British Columbia or a port in the Yukon Territories is the Vancouver Quarantine Station at 604-317-1720 (24 hour phone line) or can email at quarantinewest@phac-aspc.gc.ca if notification is 48 hours or greater prior to arrival. The person in charge of a vessel who wishes to change his port of destination after receiving instructions from the quarantine officer shall notify him of such change and request new instructions.
4.3.8.7 Pilotage Messages
For detailed information on Notices to Obtain Pilot, Notices of Departure, Notices of Movage, Optional Notices and Required Information, please refer to Section 23 of the latest Annual Edition of Notices to Mariners, published by the Canadian Coast Guard, Marine Navigation Services.
4.3.8.8 Official Naval Messages
For detailed information on Naval Messages to Canadian and Commonwealth ships in Canadian areas, please refer to Section 39 of the latest Annual Edition of Notices to Mariners, published by the Canadian Coast Guard, Marine Navigation Services.
The nautical publication “Ice Navigation in Canadian Waters” is published by the Canadian Coast Guard in collaboration with Transport Canada, Canadian Ice Service, and the Canadian Hydrographic Service. The Charts and Nautical Publications Regulations require this publication to be carried on board if the vessel is making a voyage during which ice may be encountered. The publication is available to download Ice Navigation in Canadian Waters, free-of-charge.
There are a variety of icebreaking and support services available to ships transiting Canadian ice-covered waters. Ice Operations Centres are in operation seasonally as ice conditions dictate. These Centres work in conjunction with Marine Communications and Traffic Services Centres to provide up-to-date ice information, to suggest routes for ships to follow through or around ice, and to co-ordinate icebreaker assistance to shipping.
Ice Operations Centres are in contact with icebreakers at all times and monitor progress of shipping within their area of responsibility. In addition, Environment Canada’s Canadian Ice Service (CIS) has fully qualified Ice Service Specialists and ice reconnaissance aircraft who are involved with Ice Operations Centres on a full-time basis throughout the ice navigation season. The Coast Guard Icebreaking Superintendents have a complete and current picture of the prevailing ice conditions in their area and the anticipated trend of conditions and are therefore well equipped to provide reasoned advice on the best routes to pursue.
To obtain the maximum benefit from the service, it is essential that Masters report to the Canadian Coast Guard before their ships enter waters where ice may be encountered. These initial reports and subsequent position reports from ships will ensure a continuing watch on the ship's progress by the CCG Ice Operations Centres and, in the event icebreaker support becomes necessary, this can be provided with a minimum of delay. There are a limited number of icebreakers available to support shipping. Masters are encouraged to follow the recommended route with which they are provided. They may also assist and support this service by providing reports on the ice they encounter.
These Guidelines apply to all laden oil tankers and to tankers carrying liquid chemicals in bulk when proceeding through an active Ice Control Zone in Eastern Canadian waters and fishing zones south of 60° North. The Canadian Coast Guard may declare any ice control zone to be an active Ice Control Zone and promulgate this information via Notice to Shipping and Notices to Mariners. When proceeding through an active Ice Control Zone, all ships to which the Guidelines apply should have on board a copy of the guidelines and at least one "Ice Advisor", who meets the requirements as prescribed in JIGs.
Canadian Coast Guard Ice Operations CentreP.O. Box 5667St. John's NL A1C 5X1Telephone: 709-772-2078 / 1-800-565-1633Iceatl@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
For ice routing contact ECAREG at:Telephone: 902-426-4956hlxecareg1@innav.gc.ca
Canadian Coast Guard Ice Operations CentreTelephone: 1-855-201-0086 / US-Canada line: 1-844-672-8037Facsimile: 514-283-1752
MARINFOIcebreakingGeneral Information Email: ice-glace@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
The complete version of JIG TP 15163 B (2011).
Program Manager, Ship Radio Inspection Fisheries and Oceans Canada Canadian Coast Guard 200 Kent Street, 7th Floor, Station 7S001 Ottawa, ON K1A 0E6 Inquiries: InfoPol@DFO-MPO.GC.CA
20 m or more in length;
a tow-boat; or
Applications for radio inspections of Canadian ships should be filed with the Canadian Coast Guard. The form entitled: Application for Radio Inspection, Compulsory Fitted Ships (82-0643) should be used for this purpose. Such request by owners, agents or masters should be received by the Canadian Coast Guard at least three working days in advance of the date requested for inspection.
Transport Canada Director General Marine Safety Directorate Tower C, Place de Ville 330 Sparks Street Ottawa, ON K1A 0N8
Telephone: 613-998-0610 Facsimile: 613-954-1032
Hay River, Northwest Territories X0E 0R9Supervisor of Technical MaintenanceFisheries and Oceans CanadaCanadian Coast Guard Ships Electronics Workshop42037 MacKenzie HighwayTelephone: 867-874-5530Facsimile: 867-874-5532
Richmond, British Columbia V7B 1L7Supervisor of Technical MaintenanceFisheries and Oceans CanadaCanadian Coast Guard Ships Electronic Workshop4270 Inglis DriveTelephone: 604-666-2311Facsimile: 604-666-1786
Victoria, British Columbia V8V 4V9Supervisor of Technical MaintenanceFisheries and Oceans CanadaCanadian Coast Guard Ships Electronic Workshop25 Huron StreetTelephone: 250-480-2644Facsimile: 250-480-2666
Lazo, British Columbia V0R 2K0Supervisor of Technical MaintenanceFisheries and Oceans CanadaCanadian Coast Guard Ships Electronic Workshop299 Wireless RoadP.O. Box 220Telephone: 250-339-5211Facsimile: 250-339-7922
Prince Rupert, British Columbia V8J 4B7Supervisor of Technical MaintenanceFisheries and Oceans CanadaCanadian Coast Guard Ships Electronic WorkshopP.O. Box 906Telephone: 250-627-3073Facsimile: 250-624-6518
To obtain further information on radio station licensing and Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) numbers contact Industry Canada or locate the nearest Industry Canada office through the local telephone directory.
4.3.13 Application for a Radio Inspection of a Compulsorily Fitted Vessel
Text description of image 4.3.12 Application for radio inspection of a compulsorily fitted vessel
4.3.14 Marine Telephone Service
4.3.14.1 Radiomedical Calls
Mariners may obtain medical advice by calling a Marine Communications and Traffic Services (MCTS) centre and requesting to be connected to a medical professional. The Canadian Coast Guard will connect the vessel to an appropriate medical professional via the Marine Telephone System.
Telephone: 39 6 54223045 Mobile: GSM 39 348 3984229 Facsimile: 39 6 5923333 Telex: 043 612068 CIRM I Email: telesoccorso@cirm.it Website: International Radio-medical Centre CIRM