VHF / GMDSS RADIO COURSE

You ask "Why do I need a radio" the answer is simple- Marine VHF radio is the best way to call for help if you need it!

You can contact the coastguard up to 50 miles off-shore and talk to other boats up to 15 to 20 miles on the open sea.

If you use and carry a marine VHF radio onboard your boat/ pwc, you required, by law, a marine radio operator’s certificate.

This 1 day course, which will teach you to be a competent radio operator and know the correct procedure for distress, urgency, safety by means of marine VHF handheld and fixed DSC radios.

Topics covered: -

VHF communications, Controls found on marine VHF set, Channels (simplex & duplex)

VHF communication range,

VHF DSC (Digital Selective Calling)

Distress, Safety and Routine Calling

MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) numbers

Ships licence and radio regulations,

Voice procedures,

Maydays, Pan-Pans etc.

NAVTEX

MSI (Martine Safety Information) broadcasts Stations

Portable safety equipment,

EPIRB (Emergence Positioning Indication Radio Beacons)

SARTs (Search & Rescue radar Transponders)

Pre-course study

Although we cover all the topics in the SRC syllabus, pre-course study is recommended.

The RYA VHF HANDBOOK by Tim Bartlett can provide you with all relevent course info.

What to bring

Candidates must bring along a current passport size photograph of themselves and a cheque made payable to

'RYA' for £22 or can be paid by credit/debit card. There will be a short assessment towards the end of the day. Candidates will be sent their VHF Short Range Certificate operator's certificate from the RYA.