MAYDAY Voice Format

A clear voice MAYDAY follows a predictable structure: MAYDAY repeated three times, vessel name repeated three times, call sign or MMSI if available, position, nature of distress, assistance required, number of persons on board, and any other useful information.

Position must be unambiguous. Latitude and longitude are best when available, but a bearing and distance from a known charted object is acceptable if that is the clearest position you can give. In pilotage waters, the harbour entrance, buoy, sector light, or headland reference may help rescuers identify the area quickly.