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Where we lead, others follow
HomeCoursesServicesSpecial RequirementsVenuesClientsInstructorFAQsContact Us
In order to operate a marine radio you are required by law to hold a certificate of competence. This course satisfies that need.
The SRC course is directed at the VHF radio with Digital Selective (DSC) calling and includes the elements of Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).
The course is, however, suitable for those still owning the older non-digital sets, and is in fact the only course available for Marine VHF Radiotelephony.
In fact, it includes all you need to know to use a radio legally and competently
The RYA has been delegated to oversee the VHF(SRC) training and assessing of candidates in this country. The Royal Yachting Association lay down certain criteria for schools teaching the VHF course. Those levels include a normal maximum of 8 candidates and 1 real radio or computer simulation per 3 candidates.
We believe in the best training possible so we exceed the requirements in the following way:
Whilst a computer simulation is acceptable as a means of teaching this course, it is in no way as effective as the use of real radio equipment. This opinion is shared by The Marine and Coastguard Agency.
We estimate that with these methods, the amount of radio voice practice you actually get will be in the order of 6 times that of some schools.
Unlike most other schools we allocate each of our candidates with a real marine radio to use throughout the course. On arrival we give you an identity (a boats name), which corresponds to a radio station within the classroom. At that station you will have an ICOM M421 marine radio (transceiver). You will have a folder of exercises that relate to your identity. Your radio will be connected to a partner radio by coaxial cable.
You will be seated approximately 20 feet from your radio partner, to give you the feeling as much as is possible, you are on your own in a boat.
The voice exercises are coupled with the classroom information and progress from setting up a DSC radio to dealing with distress situations. There is a lot of practice time available and there is considerable voice practice in routine calls to Coastguards, locks, other boats and VTS control
During the exercises you will be able to communicate with your partner as though you are using a radio that is actually transmitting.
During the day a written examination paper is taken. This coupled with an ongoing assessment of your radio skills will, subject to a satisfactory level of knowledge and skill being attained, lead to the issue of the Certificate of Competence.
To make a booking, contact us by email with your preferred dates and we'll email you with all of the details you need to confirm a final booking.
Price per person £60
A further £30 is payable to the Royal Yachting Association on completion of course for the registration and licence.
Please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions for more information.
