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Before you read on, you might wonder why not just use a mobile phone if you have a signal, and call the coast guard for help?<\/p>\n
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We’ve put the answer at the bottom of this page…<\/p>\n
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What the RYA VHF Radio Course Involves<\/h2>\n
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This one day VHF Radio Course from First Class Sailing is designed to teach you how to use a marine radio properly, safely, and confidently. It takes place at First Class Sailing\u2019s locations in London and Southampton. But if you need something more flexible, you can take it online<\/a> with our e-learning option.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n The VHF Radio Course includes:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n This is hands-on training<\/a> where you\u2019ll get to practice real-world scenarios and make sure you\u2019re ready for anything the sea might throw at you.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Whether you\u2019re taking the VHF Radio Course in person or online, the content and outcome are the same. You\u2019ll cover everything needed to safely and legally operate a VHF marine radio including the skills required to pass the VHF Radio Assessment<\/a> and gain your Short Range Certificate (SRC).<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The syllabus includes:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n By the end of the course, you\u2019ll feel confident using a VHF radio correctly \u2013 from daily chatter to emergency communications that could save lives.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The sea is unpredictable and if things go wrong, you need to be able to communicate clearly over radio. By understanding radio protocols with the RYA VHF Radio Course, you will know how to raise the alarm quickly, clearly, and in the correct format \u2013 giving rescuers the vital information they need to act fast.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n You\u2019ll learn how use the radio safety skills as outline earlier. It\u2019s not just about emergencies either. Safe sailing is also about:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n In short: it\u2019s a course that makes you a safer sailor and a more capable crew member \u2013 and that helps protect everyone on board.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n The RYA VHF Radio Course takes around 8 hours, followed by a separate practical and written assessment. Sometimes the assessment is held on the same day, sometimes the following day. We can let you know in advance and offer convenient time slots.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n You must complete the course before you can take the assessment.<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Once you pass, you\u2019ll get your RYA Short Range Certificate (SRC) \u2013 this is your VHF Radio Licence. It does not expire and is internationally recognised, including by charter companies across Europe.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n This course is for anyone who sails, whether you’re just starting out or well on your way to Yachtmaster<\/a>. It\u2019s particularly useful for:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n We\u2019ve been teaching sailors since the year 2000 and understand how to make essential training accessible, practical, and enjoyable. Whether you join us in London, Southampton, or online, you\u2019ll benefit from:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n And just like all of our RYA courses, student numbers are kept low for a better learning experience.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cWe used first class sailing to do our VHF course and exam. Good prework and content on the course day. I feel much more confident using the radio now. Would recommend\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cDid our VHF certificate with First Class Sailing, Dave the instructor was great, it’s a lot of material to get through in just one day but he kept us on track, he was relaxed and friendly but also very professional and efficient.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cCompetent Crew and VHF certificates all passed thanks to First Class Sailing. Very good tutors happy to answer lots of questions and managed to make it fun too. 5 days sailing on the Solent, learning lots about sailing but also the history and wild life around us.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHaving charted and attended shore based courses i have to give First Class Sailing 10\/10. During my recent VHF radio course both tutor and examiner were a pleasure to spend time with, attention to detail 100%. The new class room facility is perfect, I look forward to coming back soon.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p><\/blockquote>\n <\/p>\n Course Fee:<\/strong> from \u00a3149 + \u00a330 assessment fee (if taken in London) + \u00a376 RYA licence fee (prices<\/a> correct as at June 2025)<\/p>\n <\/p>\n That includes:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n If you want to sail legally, communicate safely, and feel confident in your ability to use a VHF marine radio \u2013 the RYA VHF Radio Course<\/strong><\/a> is an essential.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n You can join us in Southampton, London, or online to take the next step in your sailing journey.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n![\"vhf](\"https:\/\/www.firstclasssailing.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/vhf-sailing-course.jpg\")
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What You\u2019ll Learn<\/h3>\n
Distress Communications<\/strong><\/h4>\n
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Urgent Situations<\/strong><\/h4>\n
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Safety Broadcasts<\/strong><\/h4>\n
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Routine Use<\/strong><\/h4>\n
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How the VHF Radio Course Helps Keep You Safe at Sea<\/h3>\n
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Course Length, Assessment, and Licence<\/h3>\n
Who\u2019s This Course For?<\/h3>\n
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Why Take Your VHF Course with First Class Sailing?<\/h2>\n
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Here\u2019s What Our Students Are Saying on TripAdvisor<\/h3>\n
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Booking and What\u2019s Included<\/h2>\n
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Get Started<\/h2>\n