VHF Channel 16
Maritime Rescue · Portugal
VHF Channel 16 is the Portugal Maritime Rescue emergency number. Verified 2026-01. Source: 112 Portugal. Works from mobile. Free to call. One-tap dial.
📞 About VHF Channel 16 — Maritime Rescue in Portugal
📍 Find Nearest Emergency Services
Use GPS to locate the nearest hospital, police station, or fire station near your current location.
🗣️ Emergency Phrases in Portugal
Use these phrases to communicate in an emergency when language is a barrier. Tap the speaker to play pronunciation.
⚠️ When NOT to Call VHF Channel 16
- • Do not make false emergency calls - punishable under Portuguese law
- • Do not call 112 for non-urgent police matters - visit the local police station
- • Do not use emergency lines for road conditions
- • Do not use emergency lines for road conditions or weather forecasts
- • Do not call 112 for power outages - contact E-REDES
- • Do not call 112 for non-urgent medical advice - call Saúde 24 (808 24 24 24)
- • Do not call 112 for power outages
✈️ Travel Notes — Portugal
Emergency response is fast and efficient throughout Portugal. INEM provides excellent ambulance services. Wildfire response is prioritized during summer. Medical care is of good standard. Private hospitals offer excellent emergency care. The Saúde 24 hotline provides non-urgent medical advice.
🛡️ Traveling to Portugal? Protect Yourself
Emergency medical treatment and evacuation abroad can cost tens of thousands of dollars. We recommend securing travel insurance before your trip.
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What is VHF Channel 16 in Portugal?
VHF Channel 16 is the official Maritime Rescue (AMN/Navy) emergency number in Portugal. This number is operated by 112 Portugal and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Maritime rescue coordinated through 112. Portuguese Navy and Autoridade Marítima Nacional handle coastal emergencies. Also contactable via VHF Channel 16.
When to Call VHF Channel 16
Call VHF Channel 16 immediately in situations involving maritime rescue-related emergencies in Portugal. When you call, clearly state:
- Your exact location (street address, landmark, GPS coordinates if possible)
- The nature of the emergency
- The number of people involved or injured
- Your name and callback number
Stay on the line until the operator tells you to hang up.
Technical Details — VHF Channel 16 in Portugal
Here are the key technical facts about calling VHF Channel 16 in Portugal:
- Works from mobile: Yes — you can call from any mobile phone.
- Works without SIM card: Yes — you can call even without a SIM card installed.
- Free to call: Yes — calling is completely free. No credit needed.
- Last verified: 2026-01
- Official source: 112 Portugal
How to Call VHF Channel 16 from Abroad
If you are calling VHF Channel 16 from outside Portugal, or from a foreign SIM card, dial the international format: +351 followed by VHF Channel 16 (omitting any leading zero). However, in a genuine emergency within Portugal, simply dialing VHF Channel 16 directly from any local or roaming SIM will connect you to the Maritime Rescue (AMN/Navy). The universal number 112 is also active across Portugal and can be dialed from any phone.
All Emergency Numbers in Portugal
Besides VHF Channel 16 (Maritime Rescue (AMN/Navy)), Portugal has the following emergency services available: European Emergency Number: 112 · PSP / GNR Police: 112 · INEM Emergency Medical Service: 112 · Fire and Civil Protection (ANEPC): 112 · Maritime Rescue (AMN/Navy): 112. Save all these numbers before traveling to Portugal.
Data Source & Verification Policy
The number VHF Channel 16 is listed as the Maritime Rescue (AMN/Navy) emergency line for Portugal based on data from 112 Portugal. It was last verified in 2026-01. If this number has changed or is incorrect, please contact us immediately — accuracy of emergency contact information is our highest priority.
Frequently Asked Questions — VHF Channel 16 (Portugal)
What is VHF Channel 16 in Portugal? ▼
VHF Channel 16 is the Maritime Rescue (AMN/Navy) emergency number in Portugal. Maritime rescue coordinated through 112. Portuguese Navy and Autoridade Marítima Nacional handle coastal emergencies. Also contactable via VHF Channel 16.
Can I call VHF Channel 16 without a SIM card in Portugal? ▼
Yes, you can dial VHF Channel 16 in Portugal without a SIM card on a GSM phone.
Is calling VHF Channel 16 free in Portugal? ▼
Yes, calling VHF Channel 16 is completely free in Portugal. No airtime credit needed.
Does VHF Channel 16 work from mobile in Portugal? ▼
Yes, VHF Channel 16 works from all mobile phones in Portugal.
Who do I reach when I call VHF Channel 16 in Portugal? ▼
Calling VHF Channel 16 in Portugal connects you to Maritime Rescue (AMN/Navy) (112 Portugal), available 24/7.
What is the source for VHF Channel 16 being the Maritime Rescue number in Portugal? ▼
Verified from 112 Portugal: https://www.inem.pt/Paginas/Home.aspx. Last verified: 2026-01.
What is Saúde 24 in Portugal? ▼
Saúde 24 (808 24 24 24) is the national non-urgent medical helpline. For emergencies, call 112.
Can I call 112 from a mobile without a SIM card in Portugal? ▼
Yes. GSM phones can dial 112 without a SIM card. Emergency calls are free.
Are emergency calls free in Portugal? ▼
Yes. All calls to 112 are free of charge from any phone.
Do emergency operators speak English in Portugal? ▼
Yes. 112 operators handle calls in Portuguese and English.
What number do I call for maritime rescue in Portugal? ▼
Call 112 for maritime rescue. The Portuguese Navy and Autoridade Marítima Nacional are dispatched through 112. Also contactable via VHF Channel 16.