RYA VHF Marine Radio SRC

Service Description

A marine VHF radio is your primary connection to coastguards, port authorities, and surrounding vessels. This mandatory one-day course equips skippers and crew with the legal qualification and practical skills required to operate standard marine VHF equipment fitted with Digital Selective Calling (DSC). Hosted at our Thameside clubhouse in Central London, this course provides accessible, hands-on training for sailors preparing for coastal cruising or charter requirements. Training takes place using dedicated, real-world VHF/DSC simulator equipment in the classroom. You will practice standard voice procedures, channel selection, routine marina check-ins, and critical emergency broadcasts. By gaining hands-on experience with DSC distress alerts, EPIRBs, and SARTs, you will leave with the confidence to handle routine communications professionally and respond calmly during onboard emergencies. Full Syllabus: • VHF & DSC Basics: Transceiver controls, dual-watch functions, channel selection (1W/25W power settings), MMSI configuration, radio discipline, and international phonetic alphabet usage. • Routine Communications: Inter-ship calls, port operations, vessel traffic services (VTS), and marina contact protocols. • Distress, Urgency & Safety Alerts: Standard voice and DSC procedures for MAYDAY / MAYDAY RELAY, PAN-PAN, PAN-PAN MEDICO (radio medical advice), and SECURITE safety broadcasts. • GMDSS & Emergency Safety Equipment: Operation of EPIRBs, search and rescue transponders (SARTs), NAVTEX receiver integration, and practical simulator assessment preparation. Course Inclusions & Equipment: The course price includes official RYA SRC training materials and full access to classroom VHF/DSC simulator equipment throughout the day. Non-member registration also includes a complimentary 1-month temporary club membership, granting access to clubhouse bar and dining facilities to help you integrate into the Little Ship Club community. Schedule & Location: • Dates: Saturdays (09:30–16:30). • Location: Little Ship Club Clubhouse, Bell Wharf Lane, London. Pricing & Membership Terms: • Member Price: £100 • Non-Member Price: £155 (Excludes £75 RYA exam fee paid directly to the assessor).