The most important hand signals and radio rules for sailors in Istria
The meaning of hand signals on the water
Hand signals are indispensable, especially in marinas, when mooring and casting off, and in situations where direct communication is not possible. Especially in Istria, where the harbours are often busy in the summer months, it is important that you communicate clearly with the crew or other boats. Here are the most important hand signals you should know:
- Stop
Point upwards with the flat of your hand, fingers closed. This is the universal sign to stop all manoeuvres. It is often used when mooring or in narrow passages. - Slow
If you want to signal that you are slowing down, hold out the flat of your hand and move it slowly up and down. This signal is particularly important when you are close to swimmers or other boats. - Get closer
Raise both arms in an arc and pull them towards your chest. This sign indicates to the other person that they should come closer – for example, when you’re lying down or when help is needed. - Keep distance
To indicate that a boat should keep its distance, stretch both arms out to the side. This gesture clearly shows that you need more room to manoeuvre. - Rotate
If you want to signal someone to turn the boat round, stretch one arm out straight and make a circular motion with your hand. This is particularly useful in narrow harbours or if you want to turn the sailboat around.
The radio rules for sailors in Istria
In addition to hand signals, radio plays a central role in communication at sea. Istria has a well-developed radio infrastructure that you can use for emergency calls, enquiries or coordination with harbours. Here are the most important rules and tips for radio communication:
- Channel 16 – The emergency call channel
Channel 16 is the international emergency and call channel and is also strictly adhered to in Istria. Always keep this channel free for emergencies or important announcements. If you use it for other purposes, you may risk a fine. - Short and clear announcements
Bei der Funkkommunikation gilt: Weniger ist mehr. Sprich in kurzen Sätzen, wiederhole wichtige Informationen und vermeide unnötige Details. Verwende auch international anerkannte Begriffe wie „Roger“ für „verstanden“ oder „Over“ für „Ende der Übertragung“. - Radiotelephony procedures
Start each radio transmission with the name of the receiver, followed by your own boat name. For example: ‘Marina Pula, Marina Pula, this is sailboat Bella Vita, over.’ This ensures that the receiver immediately knows who is addressing them - Security messages
In Istria, safety messages are also issued by radio. These often concern the weather situation, nautical warnings or special instructions for sailors in certain areas. Make sure you listen to the relevant channels regularly, especially in changeable weather conditions. - Making emergency calls correctly
If you find yourself in an emergency situation, make the distress call on channel 16. Start with the word ‘Mayday’ (repeat three times), followed by the name of your boat, the position and a brief description of the emergency. For example: ‘Mayday, mayday, mayday, this is sailboat Bella Vita, position 44°48’ N, 13°50‘ E, we have a water ingress, over.’
Combination of hand signals and radio
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