STCW Certificate Overview

STCW Certificate is essential in order to work in the yachting industry. If you are looking forward to pass the STCW certificate or simply feel curious about the requierements regarding the certificate, this article will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the STCW certificate. From what training you have to undergo to its relevance on working on yacht. 

What is the STCW certificate ?

The STCW certificate is an international convention that sets minimum training, certification and watchkeeping standards for seafarers worldwide. It is required for any individual that wants to work on merchant vessels, commercial yachts or cruise ships.

Why is the STCW certificate important for working on a yacht ?

The STCW certificate ensures that all seafarers have the necessary skills and knowledge to operate safely and effectively at sea. The STCW certificate covers a wide array of topics such as firefighting, first aid, personal survival techniques and many more. By completing the STCW certificate you will be equipped with the skills necessaries to unsure the safety of everyone on board.

What are the requirements for obtaining an STCW certificate ?

To obtain an STWC certificate you must complete the required training and assessment at an approved training center. The exact requirements for the STCW certificate vary depending on the job and the type of vessel you will be working on. However, most seafarers need to complete the following courses : 

Basic Safety Training (BST)

The Basic Safety Training (BST) course is mandatory for all seafarers. It covers four areas :

• Personal Survival Technique
• Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting
• Elementary First Aid
• Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities 

Proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats (PSCRB)

The Proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats course covers the knowledge and skills required to launch and take charge of a survival craft or rescue boat in emergency situations. Such as :

• Taking charge of a survival craft
• Managing survivors after abandoning ship

Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF)

The Advanced Fire Fighting course covers advanced techniques and procedures for dealing with fires on board ships. Such as : 

• Use of Respiratory Protection​
• Searching and saving victims
• Recognizing and fighting a fire

Medical First Aid (MFA)

The Medical First Aid course covers the knowledge and skills required to provide medical first aid on board ships. Such as : 

• Stitching up wounds
• Administrating IV
• Carrying Life Support

Security Awareness Training (SAT)

The Security Awareness Training course covers the knowledge and skills required to identify and respond to security threats on board ships. Such as :

• Detecting and recognizing safety risks 
• Acquiring techniques used in order to circumvent safety precautions 

How long does it take to obtain an STCW certificate ?

The time it takes to obtain an STCW certificate depends on the courses you need to complete and your availability. Generally it takes around five to ten days to complete the basic courses, and the advanced courses can take up to four days.

How much does it cost to obtain an STCW certificate ?

The cost of obtaining an STCW certificate varies depending in the courses you need to complete and the training center you choose. On average the basic courses cost around $1,000 to $1,500 and the advanced courses up to $1,000 per course.

How long is an STCW certificate valid ?

AN STCW certificate is valid for five years from the date of issue. After five years, you will need to complete refresher courses to renew your certificate.

Can I work on a yacht without an STCW certificate ?

No, you cannot work on a yacht without an STCW certificate. the STCW certificate is mandatory for all seafarers who want to work on commercial yachts, merchant vessels or cruise ships. Yacht owners and captains are responsible for ensuring that all crew members have the appropriate certification and training.

Where can I get an STCW certificate ?

You can obtain an STCW certificate at an approved training center. There are many training centers located around the world that offers STCW courses. To find an approved training center near you, you can visit the website of your country's maritime authority or the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need an STCW certificate if I am only working on a private yacht ?

Yes, you need an STCW certificate if you are working on any type of yacht that is used for commercial purposes.

Can I take STCW courses online ?

No, you cannot take STCW courses online. The training must be completed in-person at an approved training center.

Do I need to renew my STCW certificate every five years ?

Yes, you need to renew your STCW certificate every five years by completing refresher courses.

Can I work on a yacht without any prior experience ?

Yes, it is possible to work on a yacht without any prior experience. However, you will still need to obtain the appropriate certification and training. Including STCW certificate. Read more on the dedicated Blog Post here 

How much can I earn working on a yacht ?

The salary for working on a yacht varies depending on the position, the size of the yacht, and other factors. However it is generally a well-paying carrer with opportunities for advancement. You can find more informations regarding the Yacht Crew Salary here 

To go into more details

You will find below a quick video that details even further what is the STCW certificate.