When your ship receives a Distress relay from a coast station on DSC frequency 2187.5 kHz, what should the watch officer do?

When a ship receives a Distress relay from a coast station on DSC frequency 2187.5 kHz, the proper action is to monitor 2182.0 kHz for genuine Distress communications.

This is because 2182.0 kHz is recognized as the international distress frequency for voice communications. While the DSC frequency can effectively transmit the initial distress alert, the subsequent communications concerning the distress situation often take place on 2182.0 kHz. By monitoring this frequency, the watch officer can stay informed about developments regarding the distress situation and ensure they do not miss critical voice communications regarding it.

The other options involve unnecessary or incorrect steps; for example, retransmitting the DSC call would not be beneficial unless directed by appropriate authorities, and transmitting a voice “Mayday Relay” on either DSC frequency or the distress frequency might not be needed if already receiving relay information. The correct approach focuses on active listening for further instructions or communications from the distressed vessel or associated rescue units.