• Learn to use VHF marine radios effectively with this course—covers safety calls, etiquette, and advanced features.
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VHF Radios: Everything You Need To Know

VHF Radios: Everything You Need To Know

Feel totally lost with your VHF? This course shows you exactly what to do—what buttons to push, what channels to use, and what to say in every situation.

$39.00 USD
$39.00 USD
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Is "VHF Radios: Everything You Need To Know" Right for You?

    • You feel intimidated every time you look at the VHF and aren't even sure what channel to use
    • You’ve seen tips and tricks online, but what you really need is a complete, beginner-friendly guide that walks you through everything step by step
    • You want to talk to bridges, marinas, or other boats but worry about sounding stupid or doing it wrong
    • You’ve heard boaters get chewed out on the radio and don’t want to be the next one making a mistake

Feel confident using your VHF—from everyday calls to emergencies—with a clear, step-by-step system that takes out the guesswork

After This Course . . .

  • Make routine calls with confidence

    Learn exactly what to do and say when hailing bridges, marinas, and other boats—no more second-guessing on Channel 16.

  • Master emergency procedures before you need them

    Understand the difference between mayday, pan-pan, and sécurité calls—and practice how to respond if something goes wrong.

  • Know which channels to use (and which to avoid)

    Get a clear explanation of VHF channels, including the ones for emergencies, working, weather, and local info.

  • Understand and use advanced radio features

    Learn what DSC and AIS are, why they matter, when to use them, and how to set them up—so you can boost safety and awareness aboard.

  • Sound calm, clear, and capable

    Learn the etiquette, lingo, and common phrases so you feel comfortable on the radio—and others understand you right away.

“These courses broke everything down into steps I could actually follow.”

What We'll Cover in VHF Radios: Everything You Need To Know

9 Modules • Last Updated:

  • Getting Started with Your Radio

    Understand channels, range, and basic setup

    Learn how to hold the mic and speak clearly

    Make routine calls to marinas and bridges

  • Essential Communication Skills

    Know what channels to use and when

    Master radio lingo and proper etiquette

    Handle emergency calls with calm and clarity

  • Beyond the Basics

    Learn what DSC and AIS are and how to use them

    Tune into marine weather and stay informed

    Get familiar with cruiser nets and real-world tips

Frequently Asked Questions

I haven’t heard of you. Are your courses legit?

100% yes. You may not have seen us on YouTube—but our team has nearly 100 years of combined cruising experience.

We’ve taught at Cruiser’s University, the American Sailing Association, and major boat shows. You’ll find our bylines in all the major cruising magazines, and we’ve been interviewed by The New York Times and The Weather Channel.

These courses aren’t just “what worked for us.” They’re built on years of teaching, writing, and helping thousands of cruisers solve real problems and live their dream.

No clickbait, no “everything is perfect,” and no constant disaster stories. Just a realistic, practical look at life aboard—so you can skip the trial and error and get to the good parts faster.

Is this course useful if I’m cruising outside the U.S.?

Yes—if you’re a U.S.-based boat cruising to nearby regions like the Bahamas, Mexico, or the Caribbean. It’s based on U.S. rules and channels, which apply in many popular cruising areas.

Will this course give me a VHF license?

No, this course won’t provide or qualify you for a license. (But the good news is most U.S. recreational boats don’t need one.)

Does it cover SSB or ham radios too?

No, this course is all about VHF. SSB and ham radios work differently and require separate training.

Is there a schedule? Do I need to show up at a certain time?

Nope! There’s no schedule, no set times, and nothing you have to “catch.” The course is entirely on-demand—just text and photos you can go through at your own pace, whenever it’s convenient for you.

How long will it take to complete the course?

Most people complete the course in about 2 hours, though many refer back to certain sections as they start using their radio more. You don’t need to be at your VHF while going through the material, but some students find it helpful—or choose to consult their owner’s manual along the way.

Can I start the course right away? Can I wait?

Yes — your choice! You’ll get immediate access after purchase. Your login info appears on the confirmation screen and is also emailed to you, so you can start whenever it’s convenient for you.

Is it okay if my spouse, partner, or crew goes through the material too?

Yes — we actually encourage it! If someone routinely boats with you, it's helpful for everyone to have the same understanding. We just ask that you don’t share access with others outside your boating team.

How long do I have access? Is this a subscription or will I have to pay again later?

You get lifetime access with a one-time purchase — no subscriptions, no recurring fees. That includes all future updates, too!

Is the course video-based?

No videos. The course is entirely text-based, with helpful photos throughout. That makes it easy to read, even with limited internet or noisy surroundings.

Do I need internet access to take the course?

Yes, but you don’t need high-speed or perfect service. Because the course is all text and photos (no video), it loads quickly even with spotty or low-bandwidth connections.

Can I do the course on my phone or tablet?

Absolutely. The course works on phones, tablets, and computers—use whichever device is most convenient for you.

What if I’m not happy with the course?

Every course is backed by our 90-day hassle-free refund policy. If it’s not right for you, we’ll give you your money back.

What if I have another question?

Just ask! I’m Carolyn Shearlock, founder of The Boat Galley, and I’d love to help. Whether you're unsure if a course is right for you or have a question we didn’t cover, feel free to email me directly. You won’t get a bot—you’ll get a real reply from someone who’s been there.

John Herlig: Cruising and VHF expert, delivery captain, and experienced cruiser in the US East Coast, Bahamas, Haiti, and the Caribbean.

Meet Your Instructor:

John Herlig

John Herlig cruised for five years aboard his 30-foot sailboat, relying daily on his VHF to stay safe, connected, and informed. Now a delivery captain and instructor at Cruisers University, John combines deep real-world experience with a clear, approachable teaching style—helping you learn what your VHF can do, how to use it confidently, and why it matters.

Why Choose Our Courses?

✔ Practical and Proven
No fluff, no filler—just clear steps that work for real cruisers.

✔ Learn Without Overwhelm
Breaks down big topics into easy-to-follow lessons you can actually absorb.

✔ Fits Your Life
No schedule, no deadlines. Learn when it works for you.

✔ Instant Lifetime Access
Start today. Come back anytime. Includes all future updates, free.

✔ Incredible Value
All the insight of seminars or coaching—at a fraction of the cost.

Made by experienced cruisers, these courses are like having a trusted friend show you the ropes—so you can move forward with confidence.

Trusted by over 8,200 cruisers (and counting)

How It Works

✔ Pick Your Course or the All Access Pass
Choose the topic you need—or get all 9 courses in one discounted bundle.

✔ Start Learning Right Away
Log in immediately from your order confirmation screen or email.

✔ Go at Your Own Pace
No schedules, no deadlines. Come back anytime, from anywhere.

Raved About By Cindy G. . . .

"Dual watch, DSC, mayday calls . . . all de-mystified. . . . This course taught me what the VHF can do for me, and how and why."

Verified Purchaser, VHF Radios: Everything You Need To Know

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Our Guarantee

At The Boat Galley, we have one mission: to help you cruise with confidence.

 

As liveaboard cruisers, we understand the challenges and questions that come with boat life. That’s why we create practical products and courses designed to tackle the same issues we’ve faced ourselves—making your life on the water easier, safer, and more enjoyable.

 

Try our products and courses for yourself. If they don’t make your boat life better, use our 90-day FREE no-hassle return guarantee.

Learn to use VHF marine radios effectively with this course—covers safety calls, etiquette, and advanced features.

VHF Radios: Everything You Need To Know

Feel confident using your VHF—from everyday calls to emergencies—with a clear, step-by-step system that takes out the guesswork

$39.00 USD
$39.00 USD
Sale SOLD OUT
View full details

Customer Reviews

Based on 13 reviews
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Joseph U.

Very good. I have been through it once but will review many times as there is a lot of info. Wish you had a link to the NOAA weather map you show on the chapter on WX weather channels. I looked and cannot find the same or similar map.

Reply: We do have a link to that chart in the course and it's also on the downloadable VHF Reference at the end of the course. I'm sending you a link with it, too.

S
Sandy P.

A very helpful summary, much of which experienced boaters will know, but there are always nuggets to learn and this is full of them. The downloadable template at the end is helpful and we've printed for our nav station . . .

C
CINDY G.

Dual watch, DSC, mayday calls ... all de-mystified. I had to look in the user manual for my own VHF radio for which buttons to push, but this course taught me what the VHF can do for me, and how and why.

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