RYA VHF Marine Radio (SRC)

A radio is a highly important piece of safety equipment on board, which is why it is vital to understand the correct usage procedures. Unnecessary transmissions could block out a Mayday distress call.

The Marine Radio Short Range Certificate is a one-day course that caters for anyone who owns or operates a fixed/ hand held-marine VHF radio. Furthermore, this certificate is required by law if you operate a VHF radio fitted with Digital Selective Calling (DSC) or any British vessel that is voluntarily fitted with a radio.

Course Structure

The basic of radio operation

•The correct frequencies (channels) to be used

•Distress, emergency and medical assistance procedures

•Making ship to shore telephone calls

•Digital Service Calling (DSC) using simulators

•Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)

•Emergency Position including Radio Beacons (EPIRB)

•Search and Rescue (SART)

The course is taught by using radio simulators and will be examined by a short written test. All new VHF sets are either fitted, or can be interfaced, with DSC allowing calls to specific vessels.