Proposed Standard Cruiser Net Script

By Travis Chap
s-v Willowlake
(former radio announcer)

Philosophy

Cruiser nets have two distinct audiences. The first is composed of persons who socialize together and know each other over extended periods. This group is informal. Most net controllers arise from this group. The second is persons who rely on the net for solutions to practical problems. In the second group, vessels under way want communications with respect to their safety. This script gives priority to the second group by doing business first, socializing second.

Script

[Radio checks are not necessary, but some controllers might feel better confirming that at least one person is listening. Interested cruisers always listen at designated times; bad transmissions by the controller usually are reported right away.]

Good morning. This is the cruisers net. Do we have any priority medical or safety traffic?

Do we have a weather forecast?

Do any vessels require information, or wish to provide information?

Does anyone wish to buy, sell or trade any item?

[From this point, some controllers might be more informal, because practical business has been concluded. ]

Do any new arrivals wish to check in?

Do we have any departing vessels wishing to say goodbye?

Can anyone flying out carry flat stamped mail?

Do we have any social events to announce?

[Following is at the discretion of the controller]

General check-ins
Trivia
Thought for the day

Notes on this script

1. The phrase “come now” is redundant and should be eliminated.

2. Controllers should assume that all parties hear a transmission. Transmissions should be repeated only on request.

3. The script presumes that listeners are knowledgeable sailors. Therefore, it does not include a net procedure or the day and date.

4. Use of the term “roger” is not recommended. It does not indicate comprehension and has not been used by the military for many years.

5. Social banter is not recommended except, possibly, at the end. Banter is frustrating to persons with pending practical business. Banter is especially irritating to a captain under way, sitting uncomfortably at his nav station, trying to hear the net over the sound of an engine, waiting to accomplish his business.

6. Some controllers enjoy general check-ins. These always should be at the end. (One time in Martinique, a controller asked for a vote,(by radio click) for or against general check-ins. The vote was 10 to 1 against.)

7. A weather forecast consists of facts and opinions. Recommendations are not appropriate.