[svzephyr44]

Like most modern VHF radios mine has the ability to do a DSC call. In fact mine is connected via the multifunction display to the AIS. This makes it a couple of button push from noticing a ship is going has entered my "zone of concern" - AIS or radar - to using the DSC function to call the ship. In theory this is the "best option." I set off a "incoming call" tone on the ship so that even if the bridge watch isn't doing a very good job watching they know that the radio call is not chatter but is intended for them.

The thing is that I have gotten into my head that using the DSC call is rude. So I make several calls on 16 and 13 until I make contact. I have only used the DSC call once - when I was very concerned about a possible collision and was getting no response from the ship. At the time I was also trying to get the heck out of the way so it wasn't my best moment for trying to understand an infrequently used technology.

Thoughts?

Fair winds and following seas

 

[mbianka]

I would use either/both VHF channels 16 and 13 for those calls. For a couple of reasons. The person on the bridge or cockpit of the boat you are calling may or may not know how to respond to a DSC call. Another reason is liability if the worst should happen and a collision happens. Other witnesses might have heard you make your calls whereas they would not know you made a DSC call. Since you already have AIS you can identify the boat you want to contact by name. No need to do a DSC. Keep It Simple Sailor.