If you already have an old VHF certificate, this course will upgrade you to the latest GMDSS (SRC) certificate. Although you can do a shortened course as an upgrade, we recommend doing the full course as a few things have changed (and can you really remember the Mayday procedure?). The course is a full day and covers: * The radio system * Licensing * Who you can talk to and how * Mayday, Urgency and Safety messages * The GMDSS concept * The GMDSS radio * Navtex, EPIRBS and SARTS

As well as computer simulators we have specially adapted Icom DSC radios so that you can practise voice and GMDSS procedures using real equipment. For the course you will need a passport sized photo of yourself. If you already have an old VHF certificate please bring this as well. We suggest you learn the phonetic alphabet in advance (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie etc) as this is one less thing to do on the day.

If you have a VHF radio on your boat, you need a licensed operator. This course will provide you with the licence and give you valuable insight into the equipment now available and how to use it. In short, what you learn may well save your life, and save your equipment from being confiscated. The new Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) has revolutionised radio at sea. This course will explain it all to you as well as give you the chance to practise what you learn.

more about our VHF courses

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