lady operating a fixed VHF radio down below deck on a yacht at mylor sailing school near Falmouth, Cornwall

RYA VHF Marine Radio SRC Course

RYA VHF Marine Radio Course – Short Range Certificate (SRC) 1 day course with 2-3 hours pre-course reading. See dates here.

More course information

COVID INFO AS AT 16th March 2021 – We are taking bookings for VHF courses for after the 17th May.

No indoor training can take place until at least 17th May 2021 as per Government Guidelines and the DCMS.

WE ARE TAKING BOOKINGS FROM 17TH MAY ONWARDS – SEE FUTURE DATES BELOW

PLEASE CALL TO BOOK, NO ONLINE BOOKINGS ARE AVAILABLE AT THIS TIME – 07971520257

A VHF Marine Radio whether handheld or fixed enables communication with coast stations, port/harbour authorities and with other vessels. This form of communication is an important piece of safety equipment and it is vital to understand the correct procedures.

The RYA VHF Marine Radio Course is 1 day’s tuition with 2-3 hours of pre-course reading. Towards the end of the day you will also sit an examination with an external moderator.

The Short Range Certificate (SRC) is the minimum qualification required by law to control the operation of VHF and VHF Digital Selective Calling (DSC) equipment on any British flagged vessel voluntarily fitted with a radio. This includes both fixed and hand held equipment using International channels.

Our well equipped classroom in Mylor, based near Falmouth is ideal for learning with wonderful views of the estuary. Parking is easy and we have free passes for your convenience.

NEXT COURSE DATES –

Saturday 22nd May 2021 – Full

Monday 31st May 2021 – Full

Saturday 12th June 2021 – Full

Monday 21st June 2021 – Spaces

Sunday 4th July 2021 – Spaces

Monday 12th July 2021 – Spaces

Monday 2nd August 2021 – Spaces

Sunday 15th August 2021 – Spaces

Tuesday 31st August 2021 – Spaces

Saturday 18th September 2021 – Spaces

Monday 27th September 2021 – Spaces

Saturday 9th October 2021 – Spaces

Monday 25th October 2021 – Spaces

Saturday 6th November 2021 – Spaces

Monday 15th November 2021 – Spaces

Saturday 27th November 2021 – Spaces

Monday 6th December 2021 – Spaces

Some more dates are currently being scheduled for the rest of May onwards but we generally run these courses every couple of weeks.

PRICES

Group Size	Price
Up to 6 people	£95pp + RYA License fee of £60pp
Up to 6 people	EXAMINATION ONLY £50pp + RYA License fee of £60pp

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A great course and our trainer was really patient and knowledgeable! Great classroom too!

Frequently asked questions

When do we run these courses?

Twice a month (during peak times and once a month in the Autumn and Winter) either on a weekend or a Monday. Pre-booking essential.

Are there any pre-requisites for this course?

There is 2-3 hours pre-course reading that will be emailed out to you on booking. You will also be emailed a link to the RYA registration process for the license. You will then have to print out the registered form on an A4 piece of paper in a landscape format and bring this with you on the day of the course. There is a license fee of £60 payable direct to the RYA on registration.

What is the format of the day?

Most of the day is training to use the VHF radios and learning about other essential information. There will be a couple of coffee breaks and also a lunch break. This will take us up to approximately 4.30pm - 5pm. A separate moderator and assessor will then give you a 25 question, multiple choice exam paper. You will then carry out an emergency procedure on the VHF radio. The day should finish between 6pm - 6.30pm approximately.

How long will it take to receive my license?

The RYA process your license direct upon successful completion of the examination at the end of the day's course. We will then send off the registration forms direct to the RYA within 24 hours. The RYA's processing time is at least 3 weeks and the license will be posted out direct to the address you have registered with them.

I am a complete beginner, is this the right course for me?

Yes absolutely. This course will take you through the basics and by the end of the course you will be competent in using a VHF Short Range radio.

If we are a family all using the radio on-board our boat do we all need a license?

By law the main registered operator needs a license but needs to be on-board if others who do not have a license are using the radio.

Will the license expire?

No it will not expire but there may be some updates from time to time. You can check the Offcom website for up to date information.

Is the examination difficult?

It is not too difficult, just following the correct set of procedures that you will be taught throughout the day and you will receive a book with all the correct procedures in to keep from the course.

We have just upgraded our fixed VHF to a DSC model, can you come to our boat to give us some training?

Yes, we can do VHF radio specific training for you. We will just need to know the make and model before hand. Taking the VHF assessment for an updated license is then up to you but can be arranged to take place at Mylor Sailing School.

Can you give us some training on our own boat with our radio?

Yes we can arrange for a trainer to carry out specific tailormade training to your model of fixed VHF radio on your own boat. Please get in touch to arrange this or for more information.

What do I need to bring?

We provide all the technical equipment required. You will need to bring, a writing pad and pencil. Erasers and pencil sharpeners available. Also we provide hot drinks. You will also need to bring your registration form from the RYA in a landscape format with a passport photo. Details on how to register will be given upon booking.