Online Course
"This project has it all" e-Learning Awards Winner
Many flotilla and charter companies now require this radio qualification. The online course is the quickest way to get your VHF Radio Operator Certificate of Competence. Just complete the online course then book a convenient time to do the final practical exam and written paper in person at a training centre. Bay Sea School have two radio assessors so it should be fairly easy to arrange a time.
1. The online radio course runs on iPads, PCs and Macs. It does NOT work on Android tablets.
2. There's a separate £60 license fee payable to the RYA before you can attend the practical exam.
Please try the 'taster course' to check the online course works on your device
Download for Windows - Open the Zip file and run the exe program
Download for Mac 10.7 or later - From the App Store
Download for iPad - From the App Store
How to book the online course
Scroll to the bottom of this page to book. After you've purchased your online course, wait for an email with the joining instructions. This will include a username and password. You'll be asked to create a user profile on the RYA Interactive website. Having done that you can download the course to your device.
We'll send you the RYA VHF Handbook. Should you need any help during the course, our award-winning RYA Yachtmaster Instructor is available by email or phone to guide you.
Study the course offline
You can work through the various modules as many times as you want. Part of the course includes a realistic VHF Radio simulator which lets you record and playback your radio conversations.
Do this after you've completed all the modules. You get three attempts and the pass mark is 60%.
Pre-exam certificate number
Once you've passed the pre-exam knowledge check you'll be issued with a certificate and number. You'll need your certificate number to qualify for the final practical exam. It's also required for the license application form.
Final practical exam
Please don't be nervous, we want you to do well! It usually takes about two hours to complete everything. Like mobile phones, the menu structure of VHF radios differ. Use the links below to see how the menu structure of the ICOM radio works. You'll use this type of radio in your practical exam. You'll have some time to familiarise yourself with the radio when you arrive.
The final exam involves choosing the right kind of call to make in different situations and then making some calls.
Final written paper
This is a short & mostly multiple choice paper similar to the pre-exam knowledge check.
Familiarise yourself with the menu structure of the ICOM radio
Sending a Routine Alert by DSC
Manually inputting another boat's MMSI number
Does the online course work on your device?
Download for Windows - Open the Zip file and run the exe program
Download for Mac 10.7 or later - From the App Store
Download for iPad - From the App Store
FAQs:
What if my internet connection goes down?
No problem, once you've installed the course on your device, you will study the course offline.
Can I do a traditional classroom VHF Radio course at Bay Sea School?
Is there an age limit?
Although there is no age limit to do the course, the minimum age for the assessment is 16.
I have an RYA/MCA 'VHF Restricted Operator's Certificate'. Can I update it to the GMDSS Short Range Certificate?
You can buy an RYA course pack from us to refresh your knowledge and learn about the new Global Maritime Distress and Safety System. When you feel ready, contact us to arrange a direct assessment. However, we strongly recommend you take the online course. Especially if it's been a few years since you last used a VHF radio.