Boost your sailing qualification!
If you’re thinking of booking an RYA Day Skipper or Competent Crew course for 2017 then we have a little added extra for you to think about. We will be offering the RYA Marine Radio Short Range Certificate (fancy ey), this course can be added to any of the RYA course that we run.
What is the VHF Short Range Certificate?
This course is designed to train you in the correct usage of a fixed or handheld VHF radio when on board a yacht. If you have sailed on one of our flotillas then you will definitely have experience of using the VHF to contact your lead crew and your fellow flotilla sailors. You may have also performed basic tasks such as relaying messages for people but this course will help you hone existing knowledge and gain new skills.
After complete this qualification you will be able to use the VHF radio for everyday operation and in the unfortunate even of an emergency at sea.
These are the main course topics that will be covered throughout the theory and practical sections of the qualification:
• The basics of radio operation
• The correct frequencies (channels) to use
• Distress, emergency and medical assistance procedures
• Making a ship to shore telephone call
• Digital Selective Calling (DSC) using simulators
• Global Maritime Distress and Safety Systems (GMDSS)
• Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB)
• Search and Rescue (SART)
Why do your VHF Short Range Certificate?
Most of you will probably have been lucky enough to of never needed to use a VHF radio in an emergency situation but this certificate is designed to prepare you in case you ever need to.
On a more upbeat note if the Croatia coastlines are calling, you will need to hold one of these certificates to charter a yacht in that area. The main benefit of the VHF certificate is that it never expires so once you have completed the qualification it is done and dusted!
How long does it take?
To complete the certificate there is a combination of online theory and practical examination. The online course will probably take around 8 hours and can be completed over the months leading up to your course (nice and leisurely). When you’re out in the sunshine you will complete an hour long practical exam with your instructor.
How much does it cost?
In addition to the week (or two week) RYA Course cost the VHF Certificate is an additional £120 per person, this includes the online theory course, the VHF theory book and your assessment out in Greece.
Are you ready to get qualified in the sun?
If you would like to either add the VHF Short Range Certificate to an RYA Course that you already have booked with us for 2017 or if you are interested in booking a course, please get in touch! You can call us on 020 8459 8787 or email us on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
