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STCW - Marifoonbedieningscertificaat Cursus & Examen

With the VHF radio operator’s certificate, you will learn to use maritime radiocommunication on board in a safe and professional manner. Proper use of the VHF radio is essential for safety on the water: it enables you to communicate effectively with other vessels, shore stations and emergency services. This course fully prepares you for the official exam and obtaining the legally required certificate.

Course duration: 1 day
Locations: Vlissingen
Cost per student: € 320,00 (excl. BTW)

Questions or need help? Send an email or call 0031 118 463382

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About this course

STCW – Maritime Radiotelephony Operator Course & Exam

Introduction
The STCW – VHF radio operator’s certificate, course & exam by DRTC offers complete preparation for obtaining the official Basic VHF Certificate. This certificate is legally required for anyone using maritime radiocommunication equipment on ships or pleasure craft on inland waters, coastal waters or at sea.

During the course, you will learn the theory and practice of maritime radiocommunication according to international regulations. You will practice using VHF radio equipment, making distress calls and following communication procedures, ensuring you are well prepared for the official exam.
DRTC also takes care of the entire administrative process, including registration and organization of the exam at CBR, which is conducted under the authority of the Dutch Digital Infrastructure Agency.

Objective
After completing the course, participants will be able to:

  • use VHF radio equipment safely and correctly;
  • carry out distress, urgency and safety radio traffic according to current procedures;
  • use the correct frequencies and communication protocols;
  • communicate effectively with vessels, shore stations and emergency services.

Target audience
The course is intended for:

  • crew members, skippers and recreational boaters who want to use a VHF radio;
  • inland shipping, fishing or coastal shipping personnel responsible for onboard radiocommunication.
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Practical info

Course content
The course combines theory and practice, including:

  • basic principles of radiocommunication;
  • distress, urgency and safety procedures;
  • operation and settings of VHF radio equipment;
  • use of channels and standard procedures;
  • practical exercises with distress calls and VHF communication.

Exam information
The VHF exam consists of a theory exam (duration: 1 hour) conducted by CBR under the supervision of the Dutch Digital Infrastructure Agency.
DRTC handles all administration and registration for the exam, so you can fully focus on the training content.

Certification
After successfully passing the exam, you will receive the VHF radio operator’s certificate, which authorizes you to perform maritime radiocommunication on inland waters, coastal waters and at sea. The certificate is valid indefinitely.

Practical information
Duration: 1 day (theory and practical preparation)
Exam: Theory exam at CBR (under supervision of the Dutch Digital Infrastructure Agency)
Class hours: 08:30 – 16:30
Number of participants: Minimum 6, maximum 18
Location: DRTC Vlissingen

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Day 1 - Fundamentals of VHF Radiocommunication

Introduction and explanation of regulations and usage instructions. Classification of VHF channels and frequencies. Standard communication and conversation structure. Handling of distress, urgency and safety traffic. Practice questions and exam preparation.

What's on the program?

  • Day 1 - Fundamentals of VHF Radiocommunication

High-quality facilities that make a difference

With the best resources and facilities at our disposal, we are able to offer training and courses of the highest quality.

Classroom + GMDSS

Realistic training with modern maritime simulation

Classroom + GMDSS

Realistic training with GMDSS and maritime communication.

Realistic training with modern maritime simulation

Classroom + GMDSS

The Classroom Simulation is equipped with modern communication systems, including the GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System). Here, participants learn how to manage emergency, safety, and routine communication at sea safely and efficiently.

What makes this simulator unique is that trainees can practice all aspects of maritime communication — including distress calls, alerting, and coordination with rescue services — in a realistic yet safe environment.

Who is it for

The Classroom Simulation is used by maritime personnel, ship officers, nautical students, and offshore teams who need to be proficient in GMDSS operations and maritime communication procedures.

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What you’ll practice

Under the guidance of experienced instructors, participants will learn to:

  • Operate GMDSS equipment for distress, urgency, and safety calls

  • Follow correct procedures for routine communication at sea

  • Collaborate and communicate effectively as a team during emergency scenarios

  • Practice realistic navigation and communication situations

  • Integrate communication within broader Full Mission scenarios

For your organization

Would you like to train your crew in ship communication and navigation procedures?
Contact us — we offer customized programs using both Classroom and Full Mission simulations.

Our instructors

The people behind the training.

Our experienced trainers challenge you to bring out the best in yourself. Our program coordinators are available to provide you with all information and to answer any practical questions regarding the training.

Jorian Schut
Maritime Instructor
Emile van Dooren
Instructor
Maarten Janse
Senior Maritime Instructor
Michel de Pooter
Senior Maritime Instructor
Ruud Kathagen
Maritime Instructor

Frequently asked questions

DRTC provides a wide range of accredited safety courses for the maritime, offshore, wind and industrial sectors.

  • STCW – including Basic Training, Advanced Fire Fighting, Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSCRB/FRB), Medical First Aid, Medical Care and Security Awareness.
  • GWO – Basic Safety Training (BST) and individual modules such as Working at Height, First Aid, Fire Awareness, Manual Handling, Sea Survival and Enhanced First Aid.
  • NOGEPA – Basic Offshore Safety, Helicopter Underwater Escape (HUET), Sea Survival, Fire-fighting and specialised refresher courses.
  • BHV/First Aid/VCA – Basic and refresher courses in Emergency Response, First Aid and Safety Certification for all sectors.

See the current course overview on our website or contact drtc@drtc.nl for advice on the right training for your needs.

For seafarers and maritime professionals who must comply with international STCW requirements.

Yes, our STCW courses are recognised by the Dutch flag state (the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate – ILT). Each certificate includes the relevant STCW reference, ensuring international recognition.

We offer Basic Training (BT), Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF), Medical First Aid (MFA), Medical Care (MC), Proficiency in (Fast) Rescue Boats (PSCRB/FRB), and Security Awareness/Designated Duties.

Most STCW certificates must be renewed every 5 years (depending on the module and sea time requirements). Check the course page for exact details.

Yes, a valid maritime medical certificate is mandatory for participation.

Bring valid identification, a medical certificate (mandatory), and swimwear/towel if the course includes a pool module. PPE and rescue equipment are provided by DRTC.

 

Courses are available in Dutch or English. Additional support for reading difficulties can be arranged on request.

You will receive a digital and/or physical certificate in compliance with STCW standards. The format may vary by course.

Based on Artikel 5 Annuleringen

  1. DRTC applies cancellation terms when cancelling training courses. A distinction is made between “open courses” and “customized courses.” A quotation is always provided for customized courses.

  2. Customized courses can be cancelled free of charge up to 14 working days before the start of the course.

  3. For cancellations of customized courses made 14 working days or fewer before the start of the course, 100% of the course fee will be charged.

  4. Open courses can be cancelled free of charge up to 5 working days before the start of the course.

  5. For cancellations of open courses made 5 working days or fewer before the start of the course, 100% of the course fee will be charged.

  6. Open courses can be rescheduled free of charge up to 2 working days before the start of the course.

  7. If a participant fails to attend at the start of the course, 100% of the course fee will be charged.

In mutual agreement, additional options may be considered beyond those stated in these terms.

Contact us at +31 118 463 382 or email drtc@drtc.nl.

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