The VHF Radio Operator course is a 8-hour, theory-only course including exam, providing the necessary knowledge required to obtain the “Marine VHF Operator Qualification”. Any person operating a maritime VHF radio must hold, as a minimum requirement, a Maritime VHF Radio Operator Certificate (unless transmitting in an emergency or a distress situation).

Knowing how to use a maritime VHF radio correctly and with confidence is vital in the event of an emergency. This course covers the protocols that must be followed when communicating over the maritime radio network.

The course fee includes Coastguard registration and the basic course pack.

NZQA unit standard 19491 V2 is available (3x Level 3 credits).

The course focuses on:

• the general features and functions of a maritime VHF radio
• correct distress and urgency procedures for ‘Mayday’ and ‘Pan Pan’ calls
• pro-words and phonetic alphabet
• trip reports
• weather services
• callsigns
• EPIRBS and other search and rescue equipment.