Short Range Certificate (SRC) is documentation of an individual which confirms one’s ability to skilfully apply VHF radio communication on a close range.

This implies that whenever you are going out to fish to the sea, in a yacht, boat, or any other type of vessel, you should be able to operate short-range radio in such a way that should there be any emergency, you can call for assistance.

Who Needs the Short Range Certificate?

1. Private yacht and boat owners

Most yacht owners are plan enthusiasts, that is, normal individuals who have no particular training. For instance, when one has purchased a yacht or a speed boat either for fishing or for recreational purposes, it is recommended to have this certificate so they understand how to call for help in an emergency situation.

Obtaining this certificate is not mandatory, but it is recommended for your own safety at sea.

2. Seafarers

For seafarers, the SRC is just the first step. For example, those following a navigation career path will also need to obtain the Long Range Radio Operator certificate, GMDSS General Operator, and so on. Specifically, it is mandatory for navigators, as they are stationed on the deck and handle all navigation issues and radio communications.

Why is the Short Range Certificate needed?

The Short Range Certificate is mostly needed for your safety on the water. So that you can save yourself in case of an emergency situation, because knowing how to properly send a distress signal is a necessary skill. No one is immune to an emergency at sea.

Safety at Sea: Possible Life Example

The perfect beginning
Imagine you are celebrating your birthday with friends on your yacht and have decided to leave from Bournemouth port to have a good time cruising through the English Channel. In the morning, the weather was perfect, and nothing predicted trouble.

Going deeper into the journey
You are on your yacht, an F//Line 33 (022), and after leaving the port, you sail deeper into the Channel, deciding to drift for a while and enjoy the sea breeze.

Sudden weather changes
Suddenly, the sky clouds over, the wind picks up, and the yacht starts to rock heavily. The water becomes rough, and you realize that the situation might get out of control.

The importance of the Short Range Certificate
This is the moment when having a Short Range Certificate becomes critically important. You know how to use the radio to call the coastguard and send a distress signal.

Rescue and safety
These correct actions could save you and your friends, ensuring quick assistance in a dangerous situation.

Where can you obtain the SRC certificate:

The Short Range Certificate can be obtained at an accredited maritime training center. Typically, the course lasts up to 2 days and costs a fairly symbolic amount, ranging from 200 to 250 euros.

Conclusion

If you are a maritime enthusiast and enjoy spending time on the water, having a Short Range Certificate is not only a useful skill but also an important element of safety. For private yacht and boat owners, this certificate is recommended on a voluntary basis as it can help in emergencies by ensuring proper use of radio communication to call for help.

For seafarers following a navigation career path, this certificate is already mandatory for obtaining, as without it, you won’t be accepted on any vessel. Because of this, it is recommended to obtain this certificate.