Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Course · 300 h · 5 modules
Basic Maritime Communications Course (VHF)
This course provides you with the essential skills for effective and safe communication in the maritime environment. Learn to operate VHF equipment correctly, use standard calling procedures, and understand key maritime…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts21 December
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Basic Maritime Communications Course (VHF)?
The Basic Maritime Communications (VHF) course
This course provides you with the essential skills for effective and safe communication in the maritime environment. Learn to operate VHF equipment correctly, use standard calling procedures, and understand key maritime terminology. This course is fundamental to complying with international regulations and ensuring safety on board.
VHF
Key Benefits:
- Official Certification: Obtain the necessary certification to legally operate VHF equipment on vessels.
- Emergency Communication: Learn to make effective distress, urgency, and safety calls.
- Regulations and Procedures: Master international regulations and maritime communication procedures.
- Simulated Practice: Participate in simulated practical exercises to reinforce your knowledge.
- Maritime Safety: Contribute to maritime safety through efficient and responsible communication.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
09-12-2026
Programme highlights
- VHF Fundamentals: Master the basic operation and standard procedures of maritime radio communications.
- Regulations: Understand the international and local regulations applicable to the use of VHF at sea.
- Emergencies: Learn to transmit effective distress alerts and participate in safety communications.
- Practice: simulated exercises and real-life scenarios to apply the knowledge acquired.
- Certification: Obtain the official certification to operate VHF equipment in boats.
- Boost your safety and professionalism on the water with this essential training.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Fundamentals of Maritime Communications
- The role of radio in maritime safety
- VHF frequency bands and channels
- Licences, certificates and radio operators
- Radio discipline and communication priorities
- ITU Radio Regulations
02
The VHF Radio
- Fixed and handheld sets
- Installing the radio and antenna
- Main controls and functions
- MMSI number and Digital Selective Calling set-up
- Maintenance and routine checks
03
Communication Procedures
- Structure of a radiotelephone call
- Phonetic alphabet and Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCP)
- Communicating with ports, marinas and Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)
- Ship-to-ship communications
- Keeping a radio log
04
Distress, Urgency and Safety (GMDSS)
- Distress, urgency and safety calls: Mayday, Pan-Pan and Sécurité
- Content of a distress message
- DSC distress alerts and cancelling false alerts
- Coordination with Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres
- EPIRBs and SARTs
05
Maritime Safety Information and Final Practical
- VHF weather forecasts
- Notices to Mariners and navigational warnings
- The NAVTEX system
- Common communication errors
- Final project: full VHF communications simulation
Workload
Study Time and Workload
300 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
Recreational and professional boaters who wish to obtain or renew their Restricted Operator Certificate (VHF).Crew members of commercial and fishing vessels who need to communicate effectively and safely in the maritime environment.Port and marina personnel who require basic knowledge of VHF radio use to coordinate operations.Water sports enthusiasts such as kayakers, sailors, or windsurfers
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
Verified reviews
Student Reviews
Reviews collected and verified by Opynio, not written by us.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Use VHF equipment correctly to transmit and receive essential information for maritime safety.
- 02Understand and apply appropriate call and listen procedures in various maritime communication situations
- 03Interpret and respond appropriately to meteorological information and navigational warnings transmitted by VHF
- 04Manage emergency situations by transmitting accurate distress alerts and following established protocols
- 05Know and comply with current legislation on the use of VHF equipment in the maritime field
- 06Maintain effective communications with other vessels and coastal facilities to coordinate maneuvers and avoid collisions
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Radio Operator on Vessels: Safety, distress, and routine communications.
02Shore Personnel in Ports and Marinas: Coordination of operations and emergencies.
03Crew Member on Recreational Vessels: Basic communications for safety and navigation.
04Maritime Rescue Personnel: Emergency communications and rescue coordination.
05Employee in Maritime Service Companies: Communications and operations support.
06Volunteer in Maritime Rescue Organizations: Distress and safety communications.
07Fisherman/Fisherman: Safety and distress communications in fishing activities.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
Channel 16
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
Channel 16
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
Academic/Professional Profile:No specific training required; recommended for onboard personnel, radio operators, and boating enthusiasts.Prior Knowledge:Basic knowledge of radio and nautical terminology (recommended).Documentation:ID Card/Passport.Other:Must be over 16 years of age (recommended).```
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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