Who is this course for

Anyone who owns a fixed or handheld marine VHF radio. The online course is for anyone who can not commit to the classroom course. 

About Course

A radio is an important piece of safety equipment to have onboard and it is vital to understand the correct procedures. Unnecessary transmissions could block out a Mayday distress call. The Short Range Certificate is the minimum qualification required by law to control the operation of VHF and VHF Digital Selective Calling (DSC) equipment on any vessel voluntarily fitted with a radio. This includes both fixed and hand held equipment using International channels.

The course can be completed in the classroom with four hours of pre study, or the course can be completed online. Once you complete the course, if in the classroom the exam can be taken straight after or you can book another exam date, please look at the exam tab for dates available.

The VHF exam fee is £76. This can be paid to us or directly to the RYA. 

Course Content

• The basics of radio operation

• The correct frequencies (channels) to be used

• Distress, emergency and medical assistance procedures

• Making ship to shore telephone calls

• Digital Selective Calling (DSC) using simulators

• Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)

• Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB)

• Search and Rescue (SART)

Course Objectives

Learn how to safely and legally operate fixed or handheld marine VHF/DSC radios, ensuring correct procedures for routine, safety, urgency, and distress communications.