Which channel is used for Coast Guard to Coast Guard communications?

• A. 22A
• B. 16
• C. 9
• D. 13

Answer: (A)

When Coast Guard units need to talk to one another, they use a dedicated VHF working channel set aside for internal CG communications. This channel allows ships and stations to coordinate tasks, share updates, and issue instructions without tying up the general calling or distress channels. For routine CG-to-CG communications, this channel is the preferred choice because it is specifically designated for Coast Guard operations and helps keep internal traffic clear and reliable.

Channel 16 is the universal distress, safety, and calling channel for all maritime traffic, so it’s reserved for emergencies and contacting any station rather than for routine interagency chatter. Channel 9 is generally used for ship-to-ship calling among non-CG vessels, not for Coast Guard internal coordination. Channel 13 is the bridge-to-bridge navigational safety channel used between vessels for safety-related exchanges, not for ongoing CG-to-CG communications.

So, the Coast Guard-to-Coast Guard channel is the dedicated working channel known as 22A.