Bimini VHF MMSI

[ArmyChief]

Going to be installing a new VHF (Standard Horizons 1700) in the new boat before the trip and was reading up on the DSC function...in particular sending data to individuals or groups with MMSI.

Was thinking having everyone's MMSI (those that have it), for th etrip could be very beneficial.

1. If a vessel had issues, the captain could send out a group (all vessels on the trip) message WITH GPS coordinates.
2. If a vessel was at a certain spot and wanted to invite fellow members, it would be a way to invite them, with GPS and those individuals could navigate to their location.

Just another safety and info feature for the trip.

 

[Bruce]

I'm in, My MMSI is 338173888.

 

[veedubtek]

Probably a dumb question that can be easily googled, but how do I get an mmsi? I read in the other thread about boatus giving you one? (I do know from that thread that is the only one I'll use, not the CG issued one or whatever) I planned to look into it more once I wired my VHF into my GPS, just haven't reached that stage yet.

 

[Bruce]

I got mine from BoatUS.

https://www.boatus.com/mmsi/instruct.asp

 

[ArmyChief]

I'm really surprised at the lack of perceived interest. DSC and MMSI are important safety features. When, I planned our first Bahama trip, safety was high on my risk assessment. Implementing as many safety devices and practicing safety plans with family made us feel more comfortable in the movement.

 

[DieselCamel]

My handheld number
338173837

 

[Andy S]

My VHF doesn't have the DSC/MMSI functionality.

 

[veedubtek]

338186705

 

[Justin G.]

Our MMSI number is 338186707

 

[Andy S]

Question for the folks with a MMSI number from BoatUS.

Since I'm starting to feel like I'm in the minority with not having a MMSI number, I might upgrade my VHF radio. When looking into the getting a MMSI number I noticed that according to BoatUS, http://www.boatus.com/mmsi/, they mention that if you plan on visiting the Bahamas plus other countries that you are legally required to go to the FCC to obtain a SSL (ship station license). The FCC will issue you an appropriate MMSI number.

How did you register you VHF radio with BoatUS with the plans on going to the Bahamas?

 

[waterboy]

My MMSI number is: 338172017.

When I registered I did n't have plans to go to Bimini yet.

I have to assume the purpose of that is to register the number internationally and BoatUS just does domestic. We are only really communicating boat to boat so no worries in my mind.

 

[Bruce]

Question for the folks with a MMSI number from BoatUS.

Since I'm starting to feel like I'm in the minority with not having a MMSI number, I might upgrade my VHF radio. When looking into the getting a MMSI number I noticed that according to BoatUS, http://www.boatus.com/mmsi/, they mention that if you plan on visiting the Bahamas plus other countries that you are legally required to go to the FCC to obtain a SSL (ship station license). The FCC will issue you an appropriate MMSI number.

How did you register you VHF radio with BoatUS with the plans on going to the Bahamas?

@PedalPirate posted some good info in this thread https://jetboaters.net/threads/has-anybody-gotten-an-mmsi-number.5132

The short version is that Bimini is close enough that it should be fine.

 

[Andy S]

When I registered I did n't have plans to go to Bimini yet.

I have to assume the purpose of that is to register the number internationally and BoatUS just does domestic. We are only really communicating boat to boat so no worries in my mind.

Just curious what would happen if you issued a distress call while in the Bahamas waters.

 

[Bruce]

Just curious what would happen if you issued a distress call while in the Bahamas waters.

The call would go through but they would have to contact USCG to get a description of your boat.

 

[waterboy]

Just curious what would happen if you issued a distress call while in the Bahamas waters.

I am not worried. @andy07sx230ho would come and get me!!!

 

[Andy S]

I am not worried. @andy07sx230ho would come and get me!!!

Damn right, us at the back of train have to stick together.

 

[Bruce]

Damn right, us at the back of train have to stick together.

I would like to say that I will join you back there, but I can't drive 25!

 

[Andy S]

Being the father duck means I can only go as fast as the slowest duckling.

 

[Bruce]

Being the father duck means I can only go as fast as the slowest duckling.

I respect you for tackeling that job. My right hand is too heavy for it.

 

[robert843]

I would like to say that I will join you back there, but I can't drive 25!

Just a hunch but some how I figure @andy07sx230ho is not at the back of the pack this time I can't say that for his boat lol but he will probably be doing a little faster than 25 mph if he wishes.