MMSI Numbers Flashcards

What information is stored against an MMSI in the coast station database?

Answer: Vessel name, type, length, owner details, and emergency contact numbers

The MMSI database (accessible by coastguards) contains vessel name, type, length, home port, owner's name and address, and emergency contact numbers. This information is critical for SAR response when a distress alert is received.

What is the recommended action if you sell your vessel and the radio is included in the sale?

Answer: Cancel your MMSI with Ofcom and advise the new owner to register their own

When selling a vessel with its radio, the seller should cancel the MMSI with Ofcom. The buyer must register a new MMSI under their details before operating the DSC radio to ensure correct identification.

What does the MMSI '002320010' (starting 0023) indicate about the station type?

Answer: It is a coast radio station or coast earth station (00 prefix)

MMSI numbers beginning with double zero (00) identify coast radio stations or coast earth stations. The following digits identify the specific country (232 for UK) and the individual station.

How is an MMSI different from a vessel's call sign?

Answer: MMSI is a 9-digit digital number for DSC; call sign is an alphanumeric identifier for voice communications

An MMSI is a nine-digit number used specifically for DSC digital communications. A call sign is an alphanumeric identifier (e.g., MHBX4) used for voice communications and vessel identification purposes.

What is the cost of registering a Ship Radio Licence and MMSI with Ofcom for a UK recreational vessel?

Answer: A small annual fee is charged by Ofcom for the Ship Radio Licence

Ofcom charges an annual fee for the Ship Radio Licence which includes the MMSI registration. The fee is modest for recreational vessels. Without this licence, operating a ship radio in UK waters is unlawful.

What must a vessel owner do if their vessel's details change (e.g., new vessel name)?

Answer: Notify Ofcom to update the MMSI database with the new details

Any change to vessel details (name, home port, owner address, emergency contacts) must be notified to Ofcom to keep the MMSI database accurate. Outdated information could compromise SAR effectiveness if a distress alert is received.