Online VHF Courses: What is a VHF Radio?

If you’re hoping to charter a yacht for a holiday break next year, a VHF license is an essential qualification. But what if work and other commitments prevent you from attending classroom-based courses?

First Class Sailing can help. As well as a wide selection of RYA-approved sailing courses, we can also guide you through all the ins and outs of operating a VHF radio – the most popular communication system for yachtsmen and women across the globe – without even stepping out of your front door!

What is a VHF Radio?

A VHF (or very high frequency) radio is an important tool in any sailor’s armoury. As well as giving you means of contacting other boats up to 60 nautical miles away, as well as nearby shoreland and the coastguard. It is invaluable in the event of an incident at sea, as it may be your only way of contacting for help.

Legally, all boats with VHF radio systems must have someone on board who holds a VHF license (also known as an SRC license). You cannot operate a VHF radio unless you have this license, as it ensures that you can use it proficiently and responsibly. Poor or unnecessary use of a VHF radio can block out Mayday transmissions, with potentially fatal consequences for your fellow sailors.

How Can I Obtain a VHF Radio License?

This is where First Class Sailing comes in. Here you can learn all the required basics of operating VHF radio systems – from the comfort of your home!

We’ll provide all the digital materials you’ll need to pass your course with flying colours – you’ll learn which channels you should use, and the correct procedures for contacting emergency services, among many other things.

Once you’ve completed your online training, you simply have to attend an assessment session and pass a simple written and practical exam to receive your VHF license.

What Will my VHF License Allow Me to Do?

As well as the Day Skipper qualification, charter companies also insist that at least one of your crew possesses a VHF Radio License. Hence, the VHF Radio course is an important stepping stone on your way to chartering yachts in places such as the Mediterranean. We also offer competent crew.

For more information on our VHF Online course, call us on 0203 006 3717.

Posted by: First Class Sailing