Mayday Distress Call (VHF) Reference Card

When things go wrong, clear communication saves lives.

This VHF Distress Call Reference Card is designed to be used in the moment, when adrenaline is high, conditions are poor, and memory fails.

Printed on waterproof, scratch-resistant paper, this double-sided card gives sailors and boaters a clear, step-by-step guide to making an emergency radio call, plus the critical information you need at your fingertips.

What’s included

Front: Mayday Call Script

• Clear, structured Mayday call format
• Prompts for vessel name, position, situation, and persons aboard
• Reminders for DSC radio use and Channel 16
• Simple “Prepare / Call / Wait” flow designed for high-stress situations

Back: Quick-Reference Essentials

• Common VHF channels (Distress, Safety, Recreational)
• Full phonetic alphabet
• Emergency priority levels: Mayday / Pan-Pan / Sécurité

Built for real conditions

• 5 × 7 inches — large enough to read quickly, small enough to keep near the helm
• Double-sided layout for fast scanning
• Waterproof & scratch-resistant paper
• High-contrast, no-nonsense design that stays readable in low light and bad weather

Who it’s for

• Cruisers and liveaboards
• Coastal and offshore sailors
• Powerboaters
• Charter boats, sailing schools, and safety kits
• Kayakers