The Phonetic Alphabet in Canada: A Boater's Complete Guide to Clear Radio Communication

The phonetic alphabet in Canada is the same as the one established by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) and NATO. It should be learned thoroughly so it can be used quickly and confidently when spelling out letters or communicating in difficult conditions.

When it is necessary to spell out words, the following letter spelling words should be used:

Letter to be Transmitted	Word to be Used
A	ALPHA
B	BRAVO
C	CHARLIE
D	DELTA
E	ECHO
F	FOXTROT
G	GOLF
H	HOTEL
I	INDIA
J	JULIETT
K	KILO
L	LIMA
M	MIKE
N	NOVEMBER
O	OSCAR
P	PAPA
Q	QUEBEC
R	ROMEO
S	SIERRA
T	TANGO
U	UNIFORM
V	VICTOR
W	WHISKEY
X	X-RAY
Y	YANKEE
Z	ZULU

Example: If asked to spell the vessel name SEADOG, the sender would say:

Sierra Echo Alpha Delta Oscar Golf

Learning this system thoroughly ensures that users can communicate complex or unclear words with confidence and precision.

Speech Transmission Techniques

Speak all words plainly and end each word clearly to prevent words from running together. Avoid any tendency to shout, accent syllables artificially or talk too rapidly.

The following points should be kept in mind when using a VHF maritime radio:

Speed

Keep the rate of speaking constant, neither too fast nor too slow. Remember that the operator receiving your message may have to write it down.

Rhythm

Preserve the rhythm of ordinary conversation. Avoid the introduction of unnecessary sounds such as “er” and “um” between words.

On the water, communication can be the difference between safety and danger. Marine radios are vital tools for:

• Coordinating with other vessels
• Receiving weather updates
• Issuing distress calls

In emergencies, every second counts. Clear, concise, and accurate communication helps ensure that assistance can be provided as quickly as possible.

Content sourced from CanBoat’s Maritime Radio Course and the Canadian Coast Guard.