# VHF DSC Radio — Essential quick reference

> Reference guide for leisure craft VHF DSC radio systems and GMDSS. (iPhone/iPad app by The Other Hat.)

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/vhf-dsc-radio/id903869200 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`)
- Developer: [The Other Hat](https://appshunter.io/developer/573973071)
- Category: Reference, Sports
- Price: $2.99
- Age rating: 17+
- Requires: iOS 11.0 · 35 MB
- Languages: American English
- Released: 2014-09-11
- Data updated: 2026-08-18
- Monetization: paid
- User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/vhf-dsc-radio/id903869200/reviews.md

## What is VHF DSC Radio?

The Reeds VHF DSC Handbook App will ensure you get up to speed quickly with both the analogue and digital functions on the radio. With straightforward explanations and helpful tips, this guide comprehensively describes the leisure craft VHF DSC radio system in a user-friendly and logical manner. 

An essential reference and learning tool for any seafarer.

A marine VHF DSC radio is considered essential kit aboard any boat. Rescue authorities and the commercial maritime world now rely almost entirely on DSC radio for making initial contact with boats at sea, so a good understanding by all crew members of how to work it is paramount.

In-depth, comprehensive information covering:
- radio procedure, channel allocation and radio theory 
- all the information required to pass the Short Range Certificate (SRC) – compulsory for anyone using a VHF DSC radio
- a full explanation of GMDSS, including details on EPIRBs, SARTs and Navtex
- handy tips throughout

Plus two quiz sections to test your knowledge!

The app features:
- Distress section - quick one-button access to essential info for use in an emergency.
- Radio theory - see below
- Radio practice - see below
- Radio roundup - covers the 'Quick Call Guide' and other essential information.
- Quizzes - 30 questions on theory, 40 questions on practice.

The Radio Theory section covers these topics & more:
GMDSS
EPIRB's
SART
The Radio Signal
VHF channel usage
Controls & functions
Siting the radio

The Radio Practice section covers these topics & more:
Standard procedure
Calls & calling
Distress
Mobile vs VHF
Intership channels
Transmission rules

Based on the Reeds VHF DSC Handbook by Sue Fletcher. 
‘If you are looking for just one book to explain all marine VHF operating code and procedure, you need look no further...Packed with hints, tips and sound advice, it explains, in the clearest possible way, all one could wish to know about VHF, present and future.’ 
Yachting Monthly

SUE FLETCHER is a Fellow of the Royal Institute of Navigation, nautical author and Principal of Chichester Maritime, an RYA training centre. She was invited by the MSA to assist in the specification for leisure craft radio and procedures.

************* FREE Bonus Content from "Safe Skipper" ***************************** 
The bonus section has tips on how to deal with emergencies including: Abandon ship; Dismasting; Distress Signals; Engine Failure; Fire Fighting; Flares; Getting a tow; Helicopter rescue; Holed hull; Man overboard; Medical emergency; Mayday; Panpan; Securité.

## Key features

- Analogue and digital radio functions
- GMDSS, EPIRBs, SARTs, and Navtex explained
- Short Range Certificate preparation
- Distress section for emergencies
- Radio procedure and theory
- Practice quizzes

## Recent user reviews (2 of 2)

All indexed reviews: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/vhf-dsc-radio/id903869200/reviews.md

### 1/5 — Adlard VHF DSC

*2015-06-24*

Beware, this product is misrepresented, it is for UK users. Not for USA or Canada. Poorly written, and a waste of money.

### 1/5 — Zéro

*2014-11-01*

Ne pas jeté vos argent dans cette application 
C'est du vole tout simplement.

## Frequently asked questions about VHF DSC Radio

### What is VHF DSC Radio?

VHF DSC Radio is an essential communication system for leisure craft, relying on Digital Selective Calling for making initial contact with boats at sea. This app provides a comprehensive guide to its analogue and digital functions.

### Is VHF DSC Radio suitable for beginners?

Yes, the app is designed in a user-friendly and logical manner with straightforward explanations, making it suitable for those new to VHF DSC radio systems. It covers all information required to pass the Short Range Certificate.

### What is GMDSS and is it covered in VHF DSC Radio?

GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System) is fully explained within the app, including details on EPIRBs, SARTs, and Navtex. This ensures users have a comprehensive understanding of maritime safety communication.

### Does VHF DSC Radio offer practice tests?

Yes, the app includes two quiz sections to test your knowledge. There are 30 questions on theory and 40 questions on practice, helping users prepare for the Short Range Certificate exam.

### What devices is VHF DSC Radio available on?

VHF DSC Radio is available on iPhone, iPad, and iPod devices, providing a convenient reference tool for a wide range of Apple users.

### How often is VHF DSC Radio updated?

The app was last updated on May 14, 2019, with the latest version being 8.6.0. While not frequently updated, the core reference material remains relevant for VHF DSC radio operation.

### What is the price of VHF DSC Radio?

VHF DSC Radio is a paid application priced at $2.99. This one-time purchase grants access to all its comprehensive reference and training features.

### Does VHF DSC Radio have ads?

No, VHF DSC Radio does not contain advertisements. As a paid application, it offers an uninterrupted learning experience without any ad interruptions.

## Version history (last 2 releases)

### 8.6.0 — 2019-05-14

Improved user experience, plus new quiz section to test your boating knowledge.

### 1.0 — 2014-09-11

No release notes.

## Apps similar to VHF DSC Radio

| App | Rating | Price | Category |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Fluid Mechanics Pack](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/fluid-mechanics-pack/id533817127) | 5.0 (12) | $3.99 | Reference |
| [Submarines of the US Navy](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/submarines-of-the-us-navy/id490811906) | 5.0 (1) | Free | Reference |
| [Birds of South Florida](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/birds-of-south-florida/id535671746) | — | $3.99 | Reference |
| [Dictionary of Nautical Terms](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/dictionary-of-nautical-terms/id1148526988) | — | $0.99 | Reference |
| [RepeaterSTART Premium](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/repeaterstart-premium/id6738314675) | 4.5 (2) | $9.99 | Reference |

## More apps by The Other Hat

- [ColRegs: Nav Lights & Shapes](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/colregs-nav-lights-and-shapes/id485271634)
- [ColRegs: Rules of the Road](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/colregs-rules-of-the-road/id494839562)
- [IALA Buoyage & Lights](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/iala-buoyage-and-lights/id503124780)
- [Growing Organic Vegetables](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/growing-organic-vegetables/id591810446)
- [Grow Your Own Organic Herbs](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/grow-your-own-organic-herbs/id595959143)
- [Safe Skipper: Boating Safety](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/safe-skipper-boating-safety/id625297113)

All apps by The Other Hat: https://appshunter.io/developer/573973071

## Related topics

[vhf dsc radio](https://appshunter.io/ios/topics/vhf-dsc-radio) · [marine vhf radio](https://appshunter.io/ios/topics/marine-vhf-radio)

---

*Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-08-18.*