RYA Online Marine Radio Course
Course price
£75 inc VAT
Minimum Age
16 Years
Previous experience
None required
Get your VHF training done in your own time
Build an important boating skill without having to fit a full classroom course into your diary. The RYA Online Marine Radio Short Range Certificate Course gives you the flexibility to complete your VHF training from home, working through the course at your own pace on a compatible computer or tablet. You’ll learn how to operate fixed and handheld marine VHF radios correctly, including routine communications, Digital Selective Calling and emergency procedures. Once you’ve completed the online training, you’ll attend an RYA Recognised Training Centre in person to complete your practical and written SRC examination.
Course Information
- Course
- Format
- Study location
- Experience required
- Minimum exam age
- Course price
- Exam
- RYA exam fee
- RYA Marine Radio Short Range Certificate (SRC)
- Online learning
- Complete from home
- None
- 16
- £75 inc VAT
- Completed separately in person at an RYA Recognised Training Centre
- £76, payable separately to the RYA
What will you learn?
Basics of Marine VHF Radio Operation
Learn the essential functions and basic use of a marine VHF radio for safe communication on the water.
Marine Frequencies and Channels
Understand the main marine radio frequencies and channels, and when each should be used.
Routine Radio Procedures
Practise making clear and correct routine radio calls in everyday boating situations.
Distress Calls
Learn how to send a distress call properly in an emergency situation at sea.
Urgency and Medical Assistance Procedures
Understand the correct procedures for requesting urgent help or medical assistance when needed.
Digital Selective Calling (DSC)
Gain an introduction to DSC and learn how it is used for alerting and communication.
Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)
Develop an understanding of the GMDSS and its role in improving maritime safety.
Correct Procedures for Operating Marine VHF Equipment
Learn the proper methods for using marine VHF equipment safely, clearly and effectively.
Requirements for Obtaining Your SRC
Understand the knowledge and practical requirements needed to obtain your Short Range Certificate (SRC).
Requirements for Gaining Your SRC Certificate
Understand the knowledge, practical skills and assessment requirements needed to gain your Short Range Certificate (SRC).
Why book through Chichester Boat Club?
Chichester Boat Club is more than somewhere to complete a qualification. We’re an active part of the boating community in Chichester Harbour, helping people build the skills and confidence to enjoy more time on the water. From your first powerboat course to navigation, radio and advanced training, there’s a clear route to becoming a more capable and independent boater. The online VHF course gives you a flexible way to take another step along that journey.
One more skill. A lot more confidence.
When you’re heading out of the harbour or setting a course for somewhere new, confidence comes from knowing you’re prepared. Your VHF is part of that. Complete the training around your schedule, pass your SRC assessment and head onto the water knowing you’ll be ready to make the call when you need to.
Available Course Dates
Choose a date and book online.
Learn when it suits you
Not everyone wants — or is able — to dedicate a full day to classroom training.
The online Marine Radio SRC course lets you fit your learning around work, family and life.
Log in from home, progress through the training at your own pace and return to sections whenever you need to.
It’s ideal if you’re:
- Preparing for a boating or sailing holiday
- Working towards further RYA qualifications
- Planning to charter a vessel
- Already boating but need your SRC
- Unable to attend one of our classroom dates
- Simply more comfortable learning independently
You get the convenience of online learning while working towards exactly the same RYA SRC qualification as candidates taking the classroom route.
Important: the SRC exam is in person
Although the training can be completed online, the final RYA SRC examination must be carried out in person at an RYA Recognised Training Centre. We recommend considering where and when you intend to take your exam when booking the online course. You must be at least 16 years old on the day of your examination. The current RYA SRC exam fee is £76 and is paid separately to the RYA.
What do I need to take the course online?
You’ll need:
- An internet connection
- JavaScript enabled in your browser
- Microphone
- Speakers or headphones
- Pop-ups enabled
The RYA currently supports the online course on compatible Windows PCs, Macs, iPads and Android tablets. Because operating system and browser requirements can change over time, we recommend checking the latest RYA compatibility guidance before starting your course.
Who is the online VHF course for?
The course is suitable for anyone who needs to operate marine VHF equipment, including:
- Powerboat drivers
- Sailors
- Yacht and motorboat owners
- Charterers
- Regular crew
- Boat club members
- People preparing for further RYA training
No previous experience is required. If you’re completely new to marine radio, the course takes you through the principles and procedures step by step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I complete the whole RYA SRC online?
No. The training can be completed online, but your final SRC exam must be completed in person at an RYA Recognised Training Centre.
How long does the online course take?
The RYA specifies around 10 hours of course study, plus examination time. Because it’s online, you can divide this into sessions and complete it at your own pace.
How much does the course cost?
The Chichester Boat Club RYA Online Marine Radio Course costs £75 inc VAT. The RYA examination fee is not included.
How much is the RYA exam?
The current RYA SRC exam fee is £76.
When will my exam take place?
Let us know when you have completed the course we will arrange the exam.
Do I need previous experience?
No. The course has no previous-experience requirement.
What age do I need to be?
You need to be at least 16 years old on the day of the SRC examination.
Is the online qualification different from the classroom course?
No. Both training formats prepare you for the same SRC examination and lead to the same RYA Marine Radio Short Range Certificate.