Basic Maritime Communications Course (VHF)
Why this course?
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.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Cursos
- Hours: 150 H
- Start date: 24-07-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- 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 who seek to improve their safety and response capabilities in case of emergency.
- Members of maritime rescue and salvage organizations who need solid training in VHF communications.
Flexibility and convenience
100% online course with 24/7 access. Learn at your own pace and obtain your certificate from anywhere.
Objectives and competencies
Use VHF equipment correctly to transmit and receive essential information for maritime safety.
“Operate VHF following the appropriate calling and listening procedures (emergency, safety, routine) and using the international phonetic alphabet.”
Understand and apply appropriate call and listen procedures in various maritime communication situations:
“Use the International Phonetic Alphabet and IMO Standard Vocabulary to ensure clarity and accuracy in communications, minimizing misunderstandings.”
Interpret and respond appropriately to meteorological information and navigational warnings transmitted by VHF:
“Identify relevant information (winds, visibility, hazards) and make informed decisions based on the type of vessel and navigation plan.”
Manage emergency situations by transmitting accurate distress alerts and following established protocols:
Act quickly and accurately, using appropriate communication equipment (GMDSS, VHF) to notify the relevant authorities and coordinate the initial emergency response.
Know and comply with current legislation on the use of VHF equipment in the maritime field:
“Operate VHF equipment in compliance with the Radio Regulations and GMDSS procedures, including the correct use of channels, distress calls, safety and routine.”
Maintain effective communications with other vessels and coastal facilities to coordinate maneuvers and avoid collisions:
“Use all available means of communication (VHF, MF/HF, AIS, satellite phone) following standard procedures and the common maritime language, ensuring the clarity and accuracy of the information transmitted and received.”
Curriculum - Modules
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to VHF Radio: Purpose, advantages, and limitations.
- VHF Frequencies: Marine bands, international, national, and private channels.
- VHF Radio Equipment: Types of radios (fixed, portable), antennas, and accessories.
- Call Procedures: Routine, urgent, safety, and distress calls (MAYDAY, PAN PAN, SÉCURITÉ).
- International Phonetic Alphabet: Correct use and practical examples.
- Distress Messages: Content, structure, and effective transmission.
- Coastal Listening Service: Functions, procedures, and communication.
- Digital Selective Calling (DSC): MMSI, configuration and emergency use.
- Regulations and Legislation: International and national regulations applicable to VHF radio.
- Basic maintenance and troubleshooting of common problems with VHF radio equipment.
‘
- Introduction to VHF Radio: Purpose, Range, and Frequencies
- Radio Regulations: ITU, National Legislation, Frequency Allocation
- VHF Equipment: Transceivers, Antennas, Power Supplies, Basic Maintenance
- Calling and Listening Procedures: International, Regional, and Coastal Channels
- Distress, Urgency, and Safety Calls: Mayday, Pan Pan, Securité – Structure and Protocol
- Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS): DSC, NAVTEX, EPIRB, SART
- Routine Communications: Ship-to-Ship, Ship-to-Shore Calls, Meteorological Information
- International Phonetic Alphabet and Numbers: Clarity and Accuracy Communication
- Maritime Safety Messages: Notices to Mariners, Weather Alerts
- Best Practices and Ethics in VHF Radio: Avoiding Interference, Confidentiality, Respect
‘
- Introduction to VHF Radio: Purpose, Range, and Limitations.
- Basic Principles of Radio Frequency: Modulation, Frequency, and Wavelength.
- VHF Radio Equipment: Components, Types (Fixed, Portable), and Antennas.
- Maritime VHF Channels: Channel Assignment, Use, and Regulation.
- Routine Calls: Calling, Listening, and Responding Procedures.
- Distress, Urgency, and Safety Calls: MAYDAY, PAN PAN, SÉCURITÉ.
- Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS): Overview and Components.
- Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) (EPIRB): Operation and activation.
Search and Rescue Transponders (SART): Use in search and rescue operations.
Regulations and legislation: Licenses, restrictions, and best practices.
‘
- Introduction to VHF Radio: Purpose, Range, and Limitations.
- Operating Principles: Radio Waves, Frequencies, and Modulation.
- VHF Equipment: Types of Radios, Antennas, Cables, and Connectors.
- VHF Marine Channels: Designated Use, Channel 16, and Digital Selective Calling (DSC) Channel.
- Call Procedures: Initial Call, Response, Confirmation, and Channel Change.
- Routine Communication: Safety Messages, Weather Information, and Marine Traffic.
- Distress Calls: MAYDAY, PAN PAN, SECURITE – Definitions and Procedures.
- Digital Selective Calling (DSC) Usage: MMSI, DSC Distress Calls, Group Calls.
- VHF Radio Safety: Responsible Use, Confidentiality, and Avoiding Interference.
- Basic Maintenance: Inspection, Cleaning, Functional Testing, and Batteries.
‘
- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety → diagnosis → intervention → verification → report) applicable to any system.
Plan de estudio - Módulos
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to VHF Radio: Purpose, advantages, and limitations.
- VHF Frequencies: Marine bands, international, national, and private channels.
- VHF Radio Equipment: Types of radios (fixed, portable), antennas, and accessories.
- Call Procedures: Routine, urgent, safety, and distress calls (MAYDAY, PAN PAN, SÉCURITÉ).
- International Phonetic Alphabet: Correct use and practical examples.
- Distress Messages: Content, structure, and effective transmission.
- Coastal Listening Service: Functions, procedures, and communication.
- Digital Selective Calling (DSC): MMSI, configuration and emergency use.
- Regulations and Legislation: International and national regulations applicable to VHF radio.
- Basic maintenance and troubleshooting of common problems with VHF radio equipment.
‘
- Introduction to VHF Radio: Purpose, Range, and Frequencies
- Radio Regulations: ITU, National Legislation, Frequency Allocation
- VHF Equipment: Transceivers, Antennas, Power Supplies, Basic Maintenance
- Calling and Listening Procedures: International, Regional, and Coastal Channels
- Distress, Urgency, and Safety Calls: Mayday, Pan Pan, Securité – Structure and Protocol
- Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS): DSC, NAVTEX, EPIRB, SART
- Routine Communications: Ship-to-Ship, Ship-to-Shore Calls, Meteorological Information
- International Phonetic Alphabet and Numbers: Clarity and Accuracy Communication
- Maritime Safety Messages: Notices to Mariners, Weather Alerts
- Best Practices and Ethics in VHF Radio: Avoiding Interference, Confidentiality, Respect
‘
- Introduction to VHF Radio: Purpose, Range, and Limitations.
- Basic Principles of Radio Frequency: Modulation, Frequency, and Wavelength.
- VHF Radio Equipment: Components, Types (Fixed, Portable), and Antennas.
- Maritime VHF Channels: Channel Assignment, Use, and Regulation.
- Routine Calls: Calling, Listening, and Responding Procedures.
- Distress, Urgency, and Safety Calls: MAYDAY, PAN PAN, SÉCURITÉ.
- Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS): Overview and Components.
- Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) (EPIRB): Operation and activation.
Search and Rescue Transponders (SART): Use in search and rescue operations.
Regulations and legislation: Licenses, restrictions, and best practices.
‘
- Introduction to VHF Radio: Purpose, Range, and Limitations.
- Operating Principles: Radio Waves, Frequencies, and Modulation.
- VHF Equipment: Types of Radios, Antennas, Cables, and Connectors.
- VHF Marine Channels: Designated Use, Channel 16, and Digital Selective Calling (DSC) Channel.
- Call Procedures: Initial Call, Response, Confirmation, and Channel Change.
- Routine Communication: Safety Messages, Weather Information, and Marine Traffic.
- Distress Calls: MAYDAY, PAN PAN, SECURITE – Definitions and Procedures.
- Digital Selective Calling (DSC) Usage: MMSI, DSC Distress Calls, Group Calls.
- VHF Radio Safety: Responsible Use, Confidentiality, and Avoiding Interference.
- Basic Maintenance: Inspection, Cleaning, Functional Testing, and Batteries.
‘
- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety → diagnosis → intervention → verification → report) applicable to any system.
- Introduction to VHF Radio: Purpose, Range, and Limitations.
- Operating Principles: Modulation, Frequencies, and Marine Channels.
- VHF Equipment: Types of Radios (Fixed, Portable), Antennas, and Accessories.
- Operational Procedures: Powering On, Volume Adjustment, and Squelch.
- Routine Calls: Establishing and Maintaining Communications.
- Distress, Urgency, and Safety Calls: Procedures and Priorities.
- International Phonetic Alphabet: Use and Application in Communications.
- International Regulations: ITU, IMO, and Local Legislation.
- Communication Protocols: Clarity, Brevity, and Precision.
- Basic Maintenance and Troubleshooting Common Problems.
‘
- Introduction to VHF Radio: Frequencies, channels, FM modulation.
- Maritime legislation and regulations: ITU, SOLAS, national standards.
- VHF Radio Equipment: Fixed stations, portable stations, DSC (Digital Selective Calling).
- Standard communication procedures: Calls, replies, acknowledgments.
- Distress calls: MAYDAY, PAN PAN, SECURITE; Priorities and procedures.
- DSC (Digital Selective Calling): Programming, MMSI, distress calls, routine calls.
- GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System): Components and operation.
- Communication with coastal stations: Marine traffic, weather information, notices to mariners.
- Use of radio in emergencies: Search and rescue (SAR), coordination of operations.
- Basic maintenance and troubleshooting of common VHF equipment.
‘
- Introduction to VHF Radio: Purpose, Range, and Terminology
- International and National Regulations: ITU, SOLAS, Maritime Authorities
- VHF Equipment: Types of Radios, Antennas, Power Sources, and Basic Maintenance
- VHF Channels: Channel Assignments, Frequencies, and Common Uses
- Distress Calls: MAYDAY, PAN PAN, SÉCURITÉ – Procedures and Examples
- Routine Calls: Port Contact, Maritime Traffic Control, Inter-Ship Communications
- International Phonetic Alphabet and Clear Pronunciation
- DSC (Digital Selective Calling): Operation, Programming, Sending and Receiving Alerts
- GMDSS (Global Distress and Safety System) Maritime): Components, functions, and responsibilities of the VHF operator
Responsible and ethical use of VHF radio: avoiding interference and unnecessary communications
‘
- Introduction to VHF Radio: History, Purpose, and Applications
- Principles of Radio Communication: Frequency, Modulation, and Propagation
- VHF Radio Equipment: Components, Operation, and Basic Maintenance
- VHF Radio Channels: Designated Use and Regulations
- Standard Calling Procedures: Routine, Urgent, and Distress Calls
- International Phonetic Alphabet and Numbers
- Maritime Safety Protocols: Mayday, Pan Pan, Securité
- Using DSC (Digital Selective Calling): Programming and Functions
- GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System) Maritime): Components and Operation
Regulations and Legislation: Licenses, Restrictions, and Best Practices
‘
Career opportunities
- Radio Operator on Vessels: Safety, distress, and routine communications.
- Shore Personnel in Ports and Marinas: Coordination of operations and emergencies.
- Crew Member on Recreational Vessels: Basic communications for safety and navigation.
- Maritime Rescue Personnel: Emergency communications and rescue coordination.
- Employee in Maritime Service Companies: Communications and operations support.
- Volunteer in Maritime Rescue Organizations: Distress and safety communications.
- Fisherman/Fisherman: Safety and distress communications in fishing activities.
“`
Admission requirements
Academic/professional profile:
Degree/Bachelor's degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering, or a related field; or proven professional experience in bridge/operations.
Language proficiency:
Recommended functional maritime English (SMCP) for simulations and technical materials.
5. Induction
Updated resume, copy of degree or seaman's book, ID card/passport, letter of motivation.
Technical requirements (for online):
Equipment with camera/microphone, stable connection, ≥ 24” monitor recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admission process and dates
1. Online
application
(form + documents).
2. Academic review and interview
(profile/objectives/schedule compatibility).
3. Admission decision
(+ scholarship proposal if applicable).
4. Reservation of place
(deposit) and registration.
5. Induction
(access to campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and grants
- 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.
Testimonials
I successfully completed the Basic Maritime Communications (VHF) course, demonstrating proficiency in the use of the VHF radiotelephone, including distress, emergency, safety, and routine procedures. I achieved a perfect score on both the practical and theoretical exams, demonstrating a thorough understanding of international regulations and effective communication protocols. This allows me to operate safely and confidently in the maritime environment.
During the Nautical and Marine Operations course, I applied my theoretical knowledge in practical navigation simulations, successfully planning and executing a complex voyage, considering meteorological and maritime traffic variables, demonstrating a complete mastery of navigation techniques and safety at sea.
I successfully completed the Basic Maritime Communications (VHF) course, demonstrating proficiency in the use of VHF radios, including emergency procedures, routine communications, and the correct use of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). I achieved a perfect score on both the practical and theoretical exams, and I now feel confident operating a VHF radio in both normal and emergency situations.
I completed the Basic Maritime Communications (VHF) course and successfully passed the exam, obtaining my license to operate VHF equipment. I can now communicate effectively in routine, safety, and emergency situations at sea.
Frequently asked questions
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.
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 University + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
- Introduction to VHF Radio: History, Purpose, and Applications
- Principles of Radio Communication: Frequency, Modulation, and Propagation
- VHF Radio Equipment: Components, Operation, and Basic Maintenance
- VHF Radio Channels: Designated Use and Regulations
- Standard Calling Procedures: Routine, Urgent, and Distress Calls
- International Phonetic Alphabet and Numbers
- Maritime Safety Protocols: Mayday, Pan Pan, Securité
- Using DSC (Digital Selective Calling): Programming and Functions
- GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System) Maritime): Components and Operation
Regulations and Legislation: Licenses, Restrictions, and Best Practices
‘
Request information
- Complete the Application Form
- Attach your CV/Qualifications (if you have them to hand).
- Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you want the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
Teachers
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Naval engineer specializing in the selection, integration, and optimization of propulsion systems for yachts, high-speed craft, and service vessels.
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Materials engineer specializing in marine composites and corrosion protection systems for ships, yachts, and port structures.
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Naval electrical engineer with over fifteen years of experience in the design, integration, and operation of power and automation systems.
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Specialist in meteorological and operational decision-making for coastal and offshore navigation, integrating wind, wave, and current models.
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Naval engineer with a PhD in applied hydrodynamics and over a decade of experience designing high-performance hulls and marine structures.
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
MCA-certified captain with command of ocean-going vessels, specializing in advanced maneuvering, navigation management, and bridge safety.