RYA SRC/VHF Marine Radio Online Course

Understanding how to use a marine VHF radio is essential for safety at sea. The RYA SRC course teaches the correct procedures for communicating with marinas, coastguards, and other vessels using both fixed and handheld radios. Delivered through the RYA’s online learning platform, the training can be completed whenever it suits your schedule.

⛵ Key Details

• Duration: Approximately 5–8 hours
• Minimum age: 16 years
• Format: Online self-paced learning
• Certification: Preparation for the RYA Short Range Certificate (SRC) exam
• Platform: RYA online training system with simulators

🧭 Key Skills

• Operating fixed and handheld marine VHF radios
• Making ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore calls
• Using Digital Selective Calling (DSC) systems
• Distress, urgency, safety, and medical communication procedures
• Understanding the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)

📖 What to Expect

Training is completed through the RYA’s online learning platform using a series of structured lessons, videos, and interactive exercises. The modules guide you through the principles of marine radio communication, including how to choose the correct channels, make routine calls to marinas or harbour authorities, and communicate with other vessels. Practical examples help explain how radio communication works in everyday boating situations.

Later sections introduce emergency procedures, including distress calls and requests for assistance. Students practise using Digital Selective Calling through built-in simulators, allowing you to experience how emergency alerts and direct calls are transmitted. By the end of the course, you will understand how to use VHF radios correctly and safely and will be ready to take the official Short Range Certificate exam.

📍 Location

Learning takes place entirely online, allowing you to complete the course wherever you have internet access. All modules are delivered through the RYA’s training platform and can be accessed on a computer or tablet.

Because the training is self-paced, students can complete the lessons in a single day or break them into shorter sessions over several days. The platform includes simulator exercises that replicate real marine radio communication scenarios.

⚓ Prerequisites

No previous radio or sailing experience is required. The course is designed for beginners as well as boat owners, crew members, and water users who need to understand marine radio procedures.

Students should have a device with internet access and be comfortable following online lessons. Completion of the course prepares you for the official RYA Short Range Certificate exam, which must be arranged separately.

🌊 Why Choose Us

We create practical learning experiences that focus on skills sailors and boaters will actually use on the water. Training is designed to be clear, supportive, and flexible so students can build knowledge at their own pace while still having access to guidance when needed.

Years of sailing and instructional experience allow our team to teach marine communication in a straightforward and realistic way. The aim is to help students gain confidence using safety equipment and understand the procedures that keep crews and vessels safe.