Compass sailing journey
Do You Need VHF/SRC to Charter?
Separate radio licensing, operator policy and good seamanship before a charter.
Short answer
A charter operator may require the skipper or another crew member to hold an accepted marine radio operator certificate. The vessel also needs the appropriate station licensing. Exact requirements depend on jurisdiction, vessel and operator policy, so confirm them before booking.
How to interpret this guidance
Scope: Recreational yacht charter and UK-oriented SRC preparation; not radio licensing or legal advice.
Official or legal requirements
A personal radio operator certificate and the vessel's radio licence are separate. Applicable requirements depend on the equipment, vessel and jurisdiction.
Provider policy
The charter operator decides whose certificate it will accept, whether originals are required and what must be supplied before handover.
Compass recommendation
Prepare for the SRC where marine VHF use is relevant and get the operator's document requirements in writing before paying.
Operator certificate and vessel licence differ
A personal radio operator certificate demonstrates operator competence. The radio equipment aboard is covered by a separate vessel or portable licence arrangement. Do not assume one substitutes for the other.
Ask before paying
Ask whose certificate must be presented, which certificate types are accepted, whether originals are required and which radio equipment is fitted aboard.
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