Course Overview
Quiz-based marine radio theory. Learn VHF operation, channels, distress, urgency, safety, Digital Selective Calling (DSC), GMDSS, licensing, and practical radio procedures with clear explanations and exam-style scenarios.
Follow the recommended sequence or jump to a topic that needs attention.
Module 1
QuizUnderstand the legal and practical responsibilities involved in using marine VHF radio equipment. This module covers the Wireless Telegraphy Act, ship and operator licensing, the roles of Ofcom, MCA, and RYA, supervision rules, secrecy of communications, and common misconceptions — everything you need for the licensing section of your RYA SRC exam.
Module 2
QuizBuild a solid foundation in how marine VHF radio works at a practical level. This module covers frequency basics, VHF propagation and range, simplex and duplex channels, key channel numbers, station types in the maritime mobile service, and traffic priority — the essential building blocks you need before learning operating procedures for your RYA SRC exam.
Module 3
QuizLearn how to use marine VHF radio equipment in practice. This module covers fixed and handheld sets, core controls including squelch and PTT, antenna positioning, power settings, GPS interfacing with DSC, and common beginner mistakes — the hands-on knowledge you need for your RYA SRC exam.
Module 4
QuizLearn which VHF channel to use and when. This module covers the key channels every SRC candidate must know — including Channel 16, Channel 70, bridge-to-bridge, inter-ship, Coastguard, and marina channels — plus the vital principle of moving from a calling channel to a working channel.
Module 5
QuizLearn how to speak clearly and correctly on marine VHF during routine traffic. This module covers call structure, prowords like OVER and OUT, the phonetic alphabet, number pronunciation, speaking technique, and common beginner mistakes — essential preparation for the SRC practical exam.
Module 6
QuizUnderstand how DSC works as the digital alerting and calling system at the heart of GMDSS. This module covers what DSC is, MMSI numbers and structure, routine individual and all-ships calls, GPS position linking, call categories, directories, and common misconceptions — the DSC knowledge you need for your RYA SRC exam.
Module 7
QuizLearn how to handle distress communications correctly and confidently. This module covers the definition of distress, DSC distress alerts, the voice MAYDAY procedure, receiving and acknowledging distress traffic, MAYDAY relay, coast station control, and common mistakes — the most critical knowledge in your RYA SRC exam.
Module 8
QuizLearn how to handle PAN PAN, SÉCURITÉ, and medical assistance communications correctly. This module covers when to use urgency vs distress vs safety, call formats, medical advice procedures, cancellation, and the most common confusion points — essential knowledge for your RYA SRC written and practical exam.
Module 9
QuizLearn how to communicate correctly with coast stations, port authorities, and other vessels on operational channels. This module covers voice and DSC calling procedures, working channels, port operations, VTS awareness, inter-ship traffic, and the good practices that keep communications effective — practical knowledge for your RYA SRC exam.
Module 10
QuizUnderstand how your VHF/DSC radio fits into the wider GMDSS and SAR framework. This module covers what GMDSS is, the sea area system, why the SRC is tied to Sea Area A1, HM Coastguard's role, search and rescue communications, Maritime Safety Information, and common myths — giving you the big-picture context for your RYA SRC exam.
Module 11
QuizLearn about the GMDSS equipment beyond your fixed VHF/DSC radio. This module covers NAVTEX receivers, EPIRBs, SARTs, AIS-SARTs, handheld VHF use, MOB beacons, and common misconceptions about alerting devices — the awareness-level knowledge you need for your RYA SRC exam.
Module 12
QuizTie together everything you have learned across the SRC course. This capstone module reinforces correct operating discipline, testing procedures, watchkeeping duties, common mistakes, and realistic exam-style scenarios — building the confidence and judgement you need to pass the SRC practical exam and operate safely at sea.
