Radio service
 

The radio and satellite communication services available in the Adriatic make it a very safe place to sail. They also ensure that help is readily available in the case of emergencies.

The maritime radio service is used on boats and coastal radio stations to enable communication between the two. Those using the service must implement watchkeeping, according to the SOLAS convention, and follow all international regulations governing radio traffic.

On the Adriatic Sea, VHF channels 16 and 70 are used for watchkeeping broadcasts. This applies to vessels that are equipped with DSC VHF devices.

The Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) is also in operation. It facilitates the speedy deployment of search and rescue teams for vessels in distress, or when an alarm is raised. All rescues are led by the Maritime Rescue Center.

GMDSS uses satellite and other technologies to:

• Send urgent messages from vessels to land using at least two independent systems
• Send and receive urgent messages between vessels
• Receive urgent messages sent from land to vessels
• Send and receive messages during search and rescue operations
• Send and receive messages detailing the location of a situation
• Send and receive location signals
• Receive maritime security messages
• Send and receive general messages to coastal radio services