Radio Ga Ga

I'm about up to date now. 

We did the RYA VHF Radio course ran by David Williams in March this year. 

Revising the phonetic alphabet with the family was a laugh. For quite a while there was a couple of letters that we would get a mental block on. Alison was the best. 

  The Venue was the South Gare Marine Club, next to the mouth of the River Tees on an exposed headland. A bit nippy this time of year. We got well wrapped up. 

It was a 2 day course where we learnt about Marine VHF radios, digital selective calling ( DSC ), the correct terminology and the systems strengths and weaknesses. There were 2 radios set up on a closed circuit so that we could practice calling each other. When we had learnt the important calls and answers - Mayday, Pan Pan, Sacurite etc... We were encouraged into nautical relevant conversations which were a bit cringeworthy. It will take a fair bit of practice to become comfortable on the VHF!

Downstairs is a brill. Cafe, only open weekends. Nice and warm with a big log burner for heating. Big breakfasts and a good selection of meals and snacks. So popular we had to book for Sunday lunch. Belly buster! Open to the general public. Look out for the chef's special dessert. 

On day 2 after more practice, we had a written and practical exam. I was nervous about doing this course because I didn't think that I would be very good at it. We needed the qualification, so it had to be done. Instructor David was so thorough and comprehensive that I have no doubt that everyone on that course left with a complete understanding of the operation and use of marine VHF Radio. 

We passed - Alison scoring 1 point higher than me with 100%. 

Here's the marine phonetic alphabet ( the same as NATO'S ). A good skill to have when speaking over poor phone connections or to avoid misunderstandings. 

Have a go. 

I wrote it out myself to make sure I could still remember it.