Welcome to SSTG Maritime Training Academy South Africa & Namibia

Maritime Career Guidance

Careers at Sea

Maritime Career Guidance

We offer structured career pathways in seagoing professions, focusing on Crew that want to pursue careers in Engineering and/or Navigating roles. Explore different career trajectories tailored to each profession and find essential prerequisites for advancement.

Whether aspiring to become a Chief Engineer or a Master, these resources provide roadmaps, detailing the necessary steps and qualifications needed for success. From entry-level positions to esteemed roles, you can navigate through the tabs to chart your career progression within the maritime industry. Please contact SSTG for further guidance.

Careers on Foreign Going Ships

There are numerous foreign-going career prospects available. At the very least, candidates must possess their STCW Basic Safety Training certification and meet medical fitness requirements. Opportunities may arise directly from ship owners or through participation in structured training programs offered by MET institutions or placement agents known as Cadetships, leading to progression through various ranks. It's essential to ensure that any recruitment and placement agency involved is MLC-approved, as they play a crucial role in guiding and protecting seafarers' interests.

Below, you'll find two distinct career pathways to consider. It's crucial to conduct thorough research and make informed decisions, as the sea service accumulated onboard may contribute to one route but not both. The below guidance is intended for career guidance and may change from time to time. It is better to consult SSTG or the accreditation body for the latest requirements.

Engine Room Career

Crewmember

Capacity:

Able to sail as a crewmember on foreign going ships

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 15
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.

Engineering Cadet (Alt to Crewmember)

Alternative to Crewmember:

You may want to skip joining as a crewmember and join the vessel straight as a Cadet to become an Officer. To do this you would need these additional requirements over and above the requirements as an crewmember.

  1. You would need a placement company. Someone that can assist you in finding a suitable berth so you can gather sea time after your studies.
  2. Most study routes require a matrix certificate with a Maths and Science requirement.
  3. Some programs require you to be older than 18.
  4. Do a SAMSA eyesight test before you start - you may not be color blind.
  5. Complete your studies at a SAMSA approved centre to become an ships officer.
  6. You may join the vessel with or without an accelerated training program. It would be beneficial to join with and accelerated training program as this reduces your sea time requirement form 36 months to 12 months.
  7. In some cases funding is available for studies, but you may self fund or have your employer send you for training.

 

Capacity:

Able to sail as a trainee. You join the ship as a trainee and work your way through the ranks to qualify as an Able Seafarer and then an 3rd or 4th Officer after which your career shall continue to become an Chief Engineer.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Depending on your course you may have further STCW ancillary courses you need to take. These may vary and best to consult SAMSA for the latest requirements.

Able Seafarer Engine (ASE)

Capacity:

Between a crewmember and ASE you will first become an Ordinary Seafarer Engine. The norm is to never stay as an OS so the preparation as an ASE covers all OS requirements already.

Once qualified as an ASE you will be able to perform general engine room duties and maintenance duties on board a ship and continue your career progression to an officer.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  9. Designated security duties (STCW - A-VI/6-2)
  10. Ordinary Seafarer Engine COP
  11. Able Seafarer Engine Course Certificate (STCW - A-III/5)
  12. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Officer in Charge of an Engineering Watch (EOW)

Capacity:

Engineer officer in charge of an engineering watch on a ship of unlimited propulsion power (operational level); [STCW Regulation III/1 - No limitation].

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  9. Designated security duties (STCW - A-VI/6-2)
  10. Able Seafarer Engine COP
  11. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  12. Workshop Skills Training at an SAMSA approved institution.
  13. High Voltage Training (STCW. A-III/I)
  14. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Engineering Officers.
  15. Sea Time - On trading ships of 750 kW propulsion power or more, working in the engine room for 12 months on accelerated training or 36 months without accelerated training.
  16. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Second Engineer < or > 3000KW

Capacity:

Second Engineer officer

(i) Second engineer officer of a ship of unlimited propulsion power (management level); [STCW Regulation III/2 - No limitation].
(ii) Officer in charge of an engineering watch on a ship of unlimited propulsion power (operational level); [STCW Regulation III/1 - No limitation].
(iii) Endorsed chief engineer officer of a ship of less than 3 000 kW propulsion power (management level); [STCW Regulation III/3 - Power limitation].

Second Engineer Officer (<3 000 kW)

(i) Second engineer officer of a ship of less than 3 000 kW propulsion power (management level); [STCW Regulation III/3 - Power limitation].
(ii) Officer in charge of an engineering watch on a ship of unlimited propulsion power (operational level); [STCW Regulation III/1 - No limitation].

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  9. Designated security duties (STCW - A-VI/6-2)
  10. Able Seafarer Engine COP
  11. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  12. Workshop Skills Training at an SAMSA approved institution.
  13. High Voltage Training (STCW. A-III/I)
  14. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Engineering Officers.
  15. Sea Time - Now qualified as a EOW you will require - On trading ships of 750 kW but under 3000 kW propulsion power (Qualification limited to < 3000kW), OR ships over 3000 kW working in the engine room for 12 months.
  16. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Chief Engineer < or > 3000KW

Capacity:

Chief Engineer officer

(i) Chief engineer officer of a ship of unlimited propulsion power (management level); [STCW Regulation III/2 - No limitation].
(ii) Second engineer officer of a ship of unlimited propulsion power (management level); [STCW Regulation III/2 - No limitation].
(iii) Officer in charge of an engineering watch on a ship of unlimited kilowatt propulsion power (operational level); [STCW Regulation III/1 - No limitation].

Chief Engineer Officer (<3 000 kW)

(i) Chief engineer of a ship of less than 3 000 kW propulsion power (management level); [STCW Regulation III/3 - Power limitation].
(ii) second engineer of a ship:

(aa) of unlimited propulsion power if the candidate holds a certificate of competency as second engineer officer of a vessel of unlimited propulsion power (management level); [STCW Regulation III/2 - No limitation]; or
(bb) Of less than 3 000 kW propulsion power if the candidate
holds a certificate of competency as second engineer less than
3 000 kW (management level; [STCW Regulation III/3 - Power
limitation].

(iii) Engineer officer in charge of an engineering watch on a ship of unlimited propulsion power (operational level). [STCW Regulation III/1 - No limitation].

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  9. Designated security duties (STCW - A-VI/6-2)
  10. Able Seafarer Engine COP
  11. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  12. Workshop Skills Training at an SAMSA approved institution.
  13. High Voltage Training (STCW. A-III/I)
  14. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Engineering Officers.
  15. Sea Time - Now qualified as a EOW you will require - On trading ships of 750 kW but under 3000 kW propulsion power (Qualification limited to < 3000kW), OR ships over 3000 kW working in the engine room for 12 months.
  16. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Deck Career

Crewmember

Capacity:

Able to sail as a crewmember on foreign going ships

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 15
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.

Deck Cadet (Alt to Crewmember)

Alternative to Crewmember:

You may want to skip joining as a crewmember and join the vessel straight as a Cadet to become an Officer. To do this you would need these additional requirements over and above the requirements as an crewmember.

  1. You would need a placement company. Someone that can assist you in finding a suitable berth so you can gather sea time after your studies.
  2. Most study routes require a matrix certificate with a Maths and Science requirement.
  3. Some programs require you to be older than 18.
  4. Do a SAMSA eyesight test before you start - you may not be color blind.
  5. Complete your studies at a SAMSA approved centre to become an ships officer.
  6. You may join the vessel with or without an accelerated training program. It would be beneficial to join with and accelerated training program as this reduces your sea time requirement form 36 months to 12 months.
  7. In some cases funding is available for studies, but you may self fund or have your employer send you for training.

 

Capacity:

Able to sail as a trainee. You join the ship as a trainee and work your way through the ranks to qualify as an Able Seafarer and then an 3rd or 4th Officer after which your career shall continue to become a Master.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Depending on your course you may have further STCW ancillary courses you need to take. These may vary and best to consult SAMSA for the latest requirements.

Able Seafarer Deck (ASD)

Capacity:

Between a crewmember and ASD you will first become an Ordinary Seafarer Deck. The norm is to never stay as an OS so the preparation as an ASD covers all OS requirements already.

Once qualified as an ASD you will be able to perform lookout and maintenance duties on board a ship.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  9. Designated security duties (STCW - A-VI/6-2)
  10. Ordinary Seafarer Deck COP
  11. Able Seafarer Deck Course Certificate (STCW - A-II/5)
  12. Sea Time - Depending on your ship and program. 2-6 Months sea time to become an OS and then another 12-18 Months after becoming and OS to become an ASD. On trading ships over 100GT.
  13. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (OOW)

Capacity:

Officer in charge of a navigational watch on a ship of any tonnage on unlimited voyages (operation level) [STCW Regulation II/1 - No limitation].

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  9. Designated security duties (STCW - A-VI/6-2)
  10. Able Seafarer Deck COP
  11. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  12. ECDIS Generic Course (STCW - A‐II/1 & A-II/2)
  13. Electronic Navigation Systems - Operational Level (STCW - A-II/1)
  14. Communication (STCW - A-II/1)
  15. GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate (STCW - A-VI/2)
  16. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Deck Officers.
  17. Sea Time - On trading ships on unlimited voyages of 500GT or more, 12 months on accelerated training or 36 months without accelerated training.
  18. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Chief Mate < or > 3000GT

Capacity:

Chief Mate

  1.  Chief mate of a ship of any tonnage on unlimited voyages
    (management level) [STCW Regulation II/2 - No limitation].
  2. Officer in charge of navigational watch of a ship of any tonnage on unlimited voyages (operational level) [STCW Regulation II/1 - No limitation].

Chief mate (<3 000 GT)

  1. Chief mate of a ship less than 3 000 GT (management level) [STCW Regulation II/2 - Tonnage limitation].
  2. Officer in charge of navigational watch of a ship of any tonnage on unlimited voyages (operational level) [STCW Regulation II/1 - No limitation].

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  9. Designated security duties (STCW - A-VI/6-2)
  10. Able Seafarer Deck COP
  11. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  12. ECDIS Generic Course (STCW - A‐II/1 & A-II/2)
  13. Electronic Navigation Systems - Operational Level (STCW - A-II/1) + Management Level.
  14. Communication (STCW - A-II/1)
  15. Medical Care (STCW - A-VI/4-2)
  16. Ship Security Officer (STCW - A-VI/5)
  17. GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate (STCW - A-VI/2)
  18. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Deck Officers.
  19. Sea Time - Now Qualified as an OOW you will require - On trading ships on unlimited voyages of 3000GT or less (Qualification limited to < 3000GT) OR ships over 3000GT, 12 months on accelerated training or 36 months without accelerated training.
  20. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Master < or > 3000 GT

Capacity:

Master

  1. Master of a ship of any tonnage on unlimited voyages (management level) [STCW Regulation II/2 - No limitation].
  2. Chief mate of a ship of any tonnage on unlimited voyages (management level) [STCW Regulation II/2 - No limitation].
  3. Officer in charge of a navigational watch on a ship of any tonnage on unlimited voyages (operation level) [STCW Regulation II/1 - No limitation].

Master (<3 000 GT)

  1. Master of a ship of less than 3 000 GT on unlimited voyages
    (management level) [STCW Regulation II/2 - Tonnage limitation].
  2. Chief mate of a ship of
    (aa) any tonnage if the candidate holds a certificate of competency as chief mate (management level) [STCW Regulation II/2 - No limitation]; or
    (bb) Less than 3 000 GT on unlimited voyages if the candidate holds a certificate of competency as deck officer or chief mate (<3 000 GT) (management level) [STCW Regulation II/2 - Tonnage limitation].
  3. Officer in charge of navigational watch of a ship of any tonnage on unlimited voyages (operational level) [STCW regulation II/1- No limitation].

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  9. Designated security duties (STCW - A-VI/6-2)
  10. Able Seafarer Deck COP
  11. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  12. ECDIS Generic Course (STCW - A‐II/1 & A-II/2)
  13. Electronic Navigation Systems - Operational Level (STCW - A-II/1) + Management Level.
  14. Communication (STCW - A-II/1)
  15. Medical Care (STCW - A-VI/4-2)
  16. Ship Security Officer (STCW - A-VI/5)
  17. GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate (STCW - A-VI/2)
  18. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Deck Officers.
  19. Sea Time - Now Qualified as an OOW you will require - On trading ships on unlimited voyages of 3000GT or less (Qualification limited to < 3000GT) OR ships over 3000GT, 12 months on accelerated training or 36 months without accelerated training.
  20. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Careers on Master Coastal Vessels

There are numerous Master Coastal career prospects available onboard vessels under 500 Gross Tonnage. At the very least, candidates must possess their STCW Basic Safety Training certification and meet medical fitness requirements. Opportunities may arise directly from ship owners or through participation in structured training programs offered by MET institutions known as Cadetships, leading to progression through various ranks. It's essential to ensure that any recruitment and placement agency involved is MLC-approved, as they play a crucial role in guiding and protecting seafarers' interests.

Below, you'll find two distinct career pathways to consider. It's crucial to conduct thorough research and make informed decisions, as the sea service accumulated onboard may contribute to one route but not both. The below guidance is intended for career guidance and may change from time to time. It is better to consult SSTG or the accreditation body for recent requirements.

Engine Room Career

Crewmember

Capacity:

Able to sail as a crewmember on ships

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 15
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.

Able Seafarer Engine (ASE)

Capacity:

Between a crewmember and ASE you will first become an Ordinary Seafarer Engine. The norm is to never stay as an OS so the preparation as an ASE covers all OS requirements already.

Once qualified as an ASE you will be able to perform general engine room duties and maintenance duties on board a ship and continue your career progression to an officer.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  9. Designated security duties (STCW - A-VI/6-2)
  10. Ordinary Seafarer Engine COP
  11. Able Seafarer Engine Course Certificate (STCW - A-III/5)
  12. Sea Time - Depending on your ship and program. 2-6 Months sea time to become an OS and then another 6-12 Months after becoming and OS to become an ASE. On trading ships of 750 kW or more.
  13. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Engineer Officer of the Watch under 750kw

Capacity:

Officer in Charge of an Engineering Watch in a manned engine-room or designated duty engineers in a periodically unmanned engine room (750 kW)

  1. Engineering Officer of the Watch on a ship of less than 750kW
  2. Chief Engineer of a ship less than 350kW.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Workshop Skills Training - Limited number of Skills required at an SAMSA approved institution.
  9. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Engineering Officers.
  10. Sea Time - On ships of 100 kW propulsion power or more, working in the engine room for 18 months.
  11. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Chief Engineer under 750kw

Capacity:

Chief Engineer (<750 kW)

  1. Chief Engineer of a ship of less than 750kW propulsion power
  2. Chief Engineer on a ship less than 1500kW power operating in a port operations area
  3. Second Engineer on a ship of any kilowatt power operating in a port operations area

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Workshop Skills Training - Limited number of Skills required at an SAMSA approved institution.
  9. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Engineering Officers.
  10. Sea Time - Now qualified as an Engineering Officer of the
    Watch (<750kW) you will require - On ships of 350 kW working in the engine room for 12 months.
  11. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

To progress join EOW Foreign Going Ships

See Foreign Going Ships TAB...

Deck Career

Crewmember

Capacity:

Able to sail as a crewmember on ships

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 15
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.

Master (under 200GT near-coastal)

Capacity:

Master (<200 GT near-coastal)

(i) Master of a ship of less than 200 GT on near-coastal voyages; (management level) [STCW Regulation II/3 - Tonnage limitation].

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 20
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Electronic Navigation Systems - Operational Level (STCW - A-II/1)
  9. Communication (STCW - A-II/1)
  10. Long Range Radio Certificate (Article 47, Section II)
  11. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Deck Officers.
  12. Sea Time - On trading ships over 25GT, 12 months' sea service as officer in charge of a navigational watch.
  13. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Officer in charge of a navigational watch (under 500GT near-coastal)

Capacity:

Officer in charge of navigational watch (<500 GT near-coastal)

  1. Officer in charge of a navigational watch on ships of less than 500 GT
    on near-coastal voyages (operational level) [STCW regulation II/3- No
    limitation].

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  9. Able Seafarer Deck COP
  10. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  11. ECDIS Generic Course (STCW - A‐II/1 & A-II/2)
  12. Electronic Navigation Systems - Operational Level (STCW - A-II/1)
  13. GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate (STCW - A-VI/2)
  14. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Deck Officers.
  15. Sea Time - On trading ships of 100GT or more, 12 months on accelerated training or 36 months without accelerated training.
  16. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Master (under 500GT near coastal)

Capacity:

Master (<500 GT near-coastal)

  1. Master of a ship of less than 500 GT on near-coastal voyages (management level) [STCW Regulation II/3 - No limitation].
  2. Officer in charge of a navigational watch on a ship of less than 500 GT on near coastal voyages (operation level) [STCW Regulation II/1 - No limitation].

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  9. Able Seafarer Deck COP
  10. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  11. ECDIS Generic Course (STCW - A‐II/1 & A-II/2)
  12. Electronic Navigation Systems - Operational Level (STCW - A-II/1) + Management Level.
  13. Communication (STCW - A-II/1)
  14. Medical Care (STCW - A-VI/4-2)
  15. GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate (STCW - A-VI/2)
  16. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Deck Officers.
  17. Sea Time - Now Qualified as an Mate NC< 500GT you will require - On trading ships of 100GT or more, 12 months.
  18. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Career on Port Operations Vessels

Port Operation vessels are limited to within Port limits. These would be your Tugs and support and bunkering vessels that are operated by Port Authorities and private companies offering services to the port. At the very least, candidates must possess their STCW Basic Safety Training certification and meet medical fitness requirements. Opportunities may arise directly from ship owners or through participation in structured training programs offered by MET institutions known as Cadetships, leading to progression through various ranks.

Below, you'll find two distinct career pathways to consider. It's crucial to conduct thorough research and make informed decisions, as the sea service accumulated onboard may contribute to one route but not both. The below guidance is intended for career guidance and may change from time to time. It is better to consult SSTG or the accreditation body for the latest requirements.

Engine Room Career

Crewmember

Capacity:

Able to sail as a crewmember on Port Operations Vessels

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 15
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate

Able Seafarer Engine- Port Operations (ASE - P)

Capacity:

Between a crewmember and ASE-P you will first become an Ordinary Seafarer Engine. The norm is to never stay as an OS so the preparation as an ASE-P covers all OS requirements already.

Once qualified as an ASE-P you will be able to perform general engine room duties and maintenance duties on board Port Operation Vessels and continue your career progression to an officer.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate
  8. Ordinary Seafarer Engine COP
  9. Able Seafarer Engine Course Certificate (STCW - A-III/5)
  10. Sea Time - Depending on your ship and program. 2-6 Months sea time to become an OS-P and then another 6-12 Months after becoming and OS-P to become an ASE-P. On Port Operation vessels with 100kW propulsion or more.
  11. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Engineer Officer of the Watch under 750kw

Capacity:

Officer in Charge of an Engineering Watch in a manned engine-room or designated duty engineers in a periodically unmanned engine room (750 kW)

  1. Engineering Officer of the Watch on a ship of less than 750kW
  2. Chief Engineer of a ship less than 350kW.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Workshop Skills Training - Limited number of Skills required at an SAMSA approved institution.
  9. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Engineering Officers.
  10. Sea Time - On ships of 100 kW propulsion power or more, working in the engine room for 18 months.
  11. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Chief Engineer (under 750kw)

Capacity:

Chief Engineer (<750 kW)

  1. Chief Engineer of a ship of less than 750kW propulsion power
  2. Chief Engineer on a ship less than 1500kW power operating in a port operations area
  3. Second Engineer on a ship of any kilowatt power operating in a port operations area

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Workshop Skills Training - Limited number of Skills required at an SAMSA approved institution.
  9. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Engineering Officers.
  10. Sea Time - Now qualified as an Engineering Officer of the
    Watch (<750kW) you will require - On ships of 350 kW working in the engine room for 12 months.
  11. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Chief Engineer (Port Operations) (under 750kw)

Capacity:

Chief Engineer (<750 kW Port Operations)

  1. chief engineering officer of a ship of less than 750 kW propulsion power operating in a port operations area; and
  2. second engineering officer of a ship of any kilowatt propulsion power in port operations area

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Workshop Skills Training - Limited number of Skills required at an SAMSA approved institution.
  9. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Engineering Officers.
  10. Sea Time - On ships of 100 kW working in the engine room for 18 months.
  11. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Chief Engineer (Port Operations) (under 1500kw)

Capacity:

Chief Engineer Officer (<1 500 kW Port Operations)

  1. Chief engineer officer of a ship of less than 1 500 kW propulsion power operating within in a port operations area.
  2. Second Engineer on a ship of any kilowatt propulsion power operating in a port operations area.
  3. Endorsed Engineering Officer of the Watch of a ship less than 750kW propulsion power operating in unlimited voyages

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate
  8. Workshop Skills Training
  9. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Engineering Officers.
  10. Sea Time - On Port Operation ships of 750 kW working in the engine room for 18 months.
  11. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Chief Engineer Officer (Port Operations)

Capacity:

Chief Engineer Officer (port operations)

  1. Chief Engineer of a ship of any propulsion power operating within port operations area.
  2. Endorsed Chief Engineering on a ship of less than 750kW propulsion power on unlimited voyages
  3. Engineering Officer of the Watch of a ship of less than 750kW propulsion power on unlimited vessels

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate
  8. Workshop Skills Training
  9. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  10. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Engineering Officers.
  11. Sea Time - Now qualified as a Chief engineer (<1 500
    kW port operations) you will require - On Port Operation ships of 750 kW working in the engine room for 12 months of which 6 months must have been on Port Operation vessel over 1500 kW.
  12. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Deck Career

Crewmember

Capacity:

Able to sail as a crewmember on Port Operations Vessels

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 15
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate

Able Seafarer Deck Port Operations (ASD -P)

Capacity:

Between a crewmember and ASD-P you will first become an Ordinary Seafarer Deck. The norm is to never stay as an OS so the preparation as an ASD-P covers all OS requirements already.

Once qualified as an ASD-P you will be able to perform lookout and maintenance duties on board Port Operation Vessels.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate
  8. Ordinary Seafarer Deck COP
  9. Able Seafarer Deck Course Certificate (STCW - A-II/5)
  10. Sea Time - Depending on your ship and program. 2-6 Months sea time to become an OS-P and then another 6-12 Months after becoming and OS-P to become an ASD-P. On Port Operation vessels over 25GT.
  11. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Skipper (under 200GT Port Operations)

Capacity:

Skipper (<200 GT port operations)

  1. Master of a ship of less than 200 GT operating within a port operations area; and
  2. Officer in charge of a navigational watch of a ship of less than 1 600 GT operating within a port operations area.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate.
  8. Electronic Navigation Systems - Operational Level (STCW - A-II/1)
  9. Short Range Certificate (Article 47, Section II)
  10. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Deck Officers.
  11. Sea Time - have at least 12 months' sea service in the deck department on any of the following ships of 25 GT or more-
    (a) seagoing ships;
    (b) fishing vessels;
    (c) port operation vessels; or
    (d) naval ships of 14 m or more in length
  12. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Master (under 1600GT Port Operations)

Capacity:

Master (<1 600 GT port operations)

(i) Master of a ship of <1 600 GT operating within a port operations area; and
(ii) Officer in charge of navigational watch of a ship of any tonnage operating within a port operations area.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 20
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate.
  8. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  9. Electronic Navigation Systems - Operational Level (STCW - A-II/1)
  10. Short Range Certificate (Article 47, Section II)
  11. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Deck Officers.
  12. Sea Time - Now Qualified as an skipper (<200 GT port operations); you will require - On port operation ships of 100GT or more, 12 months.
  13. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Master (Port Operations)

Capacity:

Master (>1 600 GT port operations)

(i) Master of a ship of any tonnage operating within port operations area.
(ii) Officer in charge of navigational watch of a ship of any tonnage
operating within a port operations area.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 20
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate.
  8. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  9. Electronic Navigation Systems - Operational Level (STCW - A-II/1)
  10. Short Range Certificate (Article 47, Section II)
  11. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Deck Officers.
  12. Sea Time - Now Qualified as an master (<1 600 GT port
    operations) you will require - On port operation ships of 1000GT or more, 6 months.
  13. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Career on Fishing Vessels

The fishing industry consists of various types of vessels. Fishing close to shore or in international waters, ranging from 3m long to well over 100m. Today you will see some of the most technologically advanced vessels out there with a rewarding career for those that enjoy the outdoors. At the very least, candidates must possess some of the STCW Basic Safety Training certifications and meet medical fitness requirements depending on the level which they enter. Opportunities may arise directly from vessel owners or through participation in structured training programs offered by MET institutions known as Cadetships, leading to progression through various ranks.

Below, you'll find two distinct career pathways to consider. It's crucial to conduct thorough research and make informed decisions, as the sea service accumulated onboard may contribute to one route but not both. The below guidance is intended for career guidance and may change from time to time. It is better to consult SSTG or the accreditation body for the latest requirements.

Engine Room Career

Crew Member

Capacity:

Able to sail as a crewmember on Fishing vessels

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 15
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  4. SAMSA medical Certificate
    > Then if assigned medical, pollution or fire duties you would need:
  5. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  6. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  7. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)

Engineer Officer of the Watch under 750kw

Capacity:

Officer in Charge of an Engineering Watch in a manned engine-room or designated duty engineers in a periodically unmanned engine room (750 kW)

(i) Engineering Officer of the Watch on a ship of less than 750kW
(ii) Chief Engineer of a ship less than 350kW.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate.
  8. Workshop Skills Training - Limited number of Skills required at an SAMSA approved institution.
  9. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Engineering Officers.
  10. Sea Time - On ships of 100 kW propulsion power or more, working in the engine room for 18 months.
  11. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Chief Engineer (under 750kw)

Capacity:

Chief Engineer (<750 kW)

(i) Chief Engineer of a ship of less than 750kW propulsion power
(ii) Chief Engineer on a ship less than 1500kW power operating in a port operations area
(iii) Second Engineer on a ship of any kilowatt power operating in a port operations area

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate
  8. Workshop Skills Training - Limited number of Skills required at an SAMSA approved institution.
  9. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Engineering Officers.
  10. Sea Time - Now qualified as an Engineering Officer of the
    Watch (<750kW) you will require - On ships of 350 kW working in the engine room for 12 months.
  11. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

To progress join EOW Foreign Going Ships...

To progress join EOW Foreign Going Ships...

Deck Career

Crew Member

Capacity:

Able to sail as a crewmember on Fishing Vessels.

Requirement:

  1. Older than 15
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  4. SAMSA medical Certificate> Then if assigned medical, pollution or fire duties you would need:
  5. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  6. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  7. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)

Able Seafarer Deck (Fishing) (ASD-F)

Capacity:

Between a crewmember and ASD-F you will first become an Ordinary Seafarer Deck Fishing. The norm is to never stay as an OS-F so the preparation as an ASD-F covers all OS-F requirements already.

Once qualified as an ASD-F you will be able to perform lookout and maintenance duties on board a fishing vessel.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate
  8. Ordinary Seafarer Deck Fishing COP
  9. Able Seafarer Deck Fishing Course Certificate
  10. Sea Time - Depending on your program. 2-6 Months sea time to become an OS-F and then another 12-18 Months after becoming and OS-F to become an ASD-F. On Fishing vessel over 25GT.
  11. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch Fishing (< or > 24m Limited Waters)

Capacity:

Officers in charge of a navigational watch on fishing vessels (≥24 m) limited waters

(i) Officer in charge of navigational watch of any ship engaged in fishing on limited waters [STCW-F Regulation II/2- no length limitation].

Officers in charge of a navigational watch on fishing vessels (<24 m) limited waters

(i) Officer in charge of navigational watch of a ship less than 24 m engaged in fishing on limited waters [STCW-F Regulation II/2 - length limitation].

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Electronic Navigation Systems - Operational Level (STCW - A-II/1)
  9. Communication (STCW - A-II/1)
  10. Long Range Radio Certificate (Article 47, Section II)
  11. Safety Officer Fishing> 25GT (Regulation 38 Mosregs)
  12. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Deck Officers.
  13. Sea Time -On fishing vessels over 12m or more, 12 months on accelerated training or 24 months without accelerated training.- For < 24m OOW-F
    On fishing vessels over 18m or more, 12 months on accelerated training or 24 months without accelerated training. For > 24m OOW-F
  14. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Skipper fishing (< or > 24m Limited Waters)

Capacity:

Skipper fishing (<24 m) limited waters

(i) master of any fishing vessel less than 24 m in length operating in limited waters [STCW-F Regulation II/1 - length limitation]; and
(ii) Officer in charge of navigational watch of any fishing vessel less than 24 m in length operating in limited waters [STCW-F Regulation II/2 - length limitation].

Skipper fishing (>24 m) limited waters

(i) master of any fishing vessel 24m and over operating in limited waters [STCW-F Regulation II/3- no limitation]; and
(ii) Officer in charge of navigational watch of any fishing vessel 24m in length and over operating in limited waters [STCW-F Regulation II/2 – no length limitation].

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  9. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  10. Safety Officer Fishing> 25GT (Regulation 38 Mosregs)
  11. Electronic Navigation Systems - Operational Level (STCW - A-II/1)
  12. Long Range Radio Certificate (Article 47, Section II)
  13. Pass all subjects at a SAMSA approved institution for Deck Officers.
  14. Sea Time - Sea Time - Whilst holding a OOW-F < 24 on fishing vessels over 12m or more, 12 months sea time.- For < 24m SF
    Whilst holding a OOW-F > 24 on fishing vessels over 18m or more, 12 months sea time. For > 24m SF.
  15. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Unlimited Waters

Capacity:

Officers in charge of a navigational watch on fishing vessels (<24 m) unlimited waters.

(i) Officer in charge of navigational watch of a ship less than 24 m engaged in fishing on unlimited waters [STCW-F Regulation II/2 - length limitation].

Officers in charge of a navigational watch on fishing vessels (>24 m) unlimited waters and/or
Officer in charge of navigational watch of any ship engaged in fishing on unlimited waters [STCW-F Regulation II/2- no length limitation].

Skipper fishing (>24 m) unlimited waters

(i) master of any fishing vessel of 24m in length and over operating in unlimited waters [STCW-F Regulation II/1 - no limitation]; and
(ii) Officer in charge of a navigational watch of any fishing vessel of 24m in length and over operating in unlimited waters [STCW-F Regulation II/2 - no limitation].

Skipper fishing (<24 m) unlimited waters

(i) Master of any fishing vessel of less than 24 m in length operating in unlimited waters [STCW-F Regulation II/1 - length limitation].
(ii) Officer in charge of a navigational watch of any fishing vessel less than 24 m in length operating in unlimited waters [STCW-F regulation II/2- length limitation].

Requirement:

 

  1. You would have to meet the requirements for the Limited qualification first.
  2. Additional subjects to cover.

Career on Small Vessels

Small vessels are generally vessels under 25 gross Tonnage. They can be operated at sea, dams, rivers or inland waterways. There are so many opportunities that exist where you may become a small vessel operator for your own vessel or you may be employed in the fishing industry, whaling, shark viewing, or some sort of passenger operator to name a few. Researchers, rescue vessels, park inspectors and the list goes on. For the various levels, entry requirements are at the bare minimum but in all cases, you must be medically fit and if you become a skipper you may not be colour blind. Opportunities may arise directly from vessel owners or through participation in structured training programs offered by MET institutions leading to progression through various ranks.

Below, you'll find a natural career progression. The below guidance is intended for career guidance and may change from time to time. It is better to consult SSTG or the accreditation body for the latest requirements.

Engine Room Career

Not Applicable

Refer to Small Vessels Deck Career

Deck Career

Crewmember

Capacity:

Able to sail as a commercial crewmember on Small Vessels.
Pleasure small vessels have no requirements for crew or passengers.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 15
  2. Familiarisation (Pre-Sea Safety Induction for Small Vessels) (MS (NSVR) Regs 2007)

Skipper – Inland waters (restricted) <9m or >9m

Capacity:

This lowest (non academic and practical) level of national certificate certifies that the candidate has demonstrated that he/she has the knowledge necessary to skipper, any specified type of small vessel from and to his launch site, in a specific local waters area as defined on the certificate.

The sole purpose of this level of certification is to assist persons unable to achieve any higher level of national certification to operate in their local area about which they must hold relevant local knowledge.

Requirement:

 

  1. Any Doctor‘s certificate
  2. Proof of identity
  3. Over 16 years old
  4. 50 hours of logged experience on appropriate vessels certified by a qualified skipper taking responsibility for tutorship
  5. The prescribed oral/practical examination at SAMSA or by an appointed examiner. No commercial endorsement allowed unless 18 years old.
  6. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/Small-Vessels-Safety.aspx

Skipper – Inland waters (restricted) <9m or >9m Skipper – Inland waters (unrestricted) <9m or >9m

Capacity:

The syllabus is the same as that of a category E, but the sea-time requirements are different. Hence a person can upgrade his Skipper Inland Waters (unrestricted) to a Day Skipper Category E by producing practical sea-time alone. The examination should take this into account and if in any doubt the aspirant skipper should be issued a restricted certificate.

Requirement:

 

  1. Any Doctor‘s certificate
  2. Proof of identity
  3. Over 16 years old
  4. 50 hours of logged experience on appropriate vessels certified by a qualified skipper taking responsibility for tutorship
    OR Attendance at a SAMSA approved training institution PLUS at least 25 hours
    logged service on vessels of the appropriate length
    OR 100 hours of logged service on vessels of the appropriate length
  5. The prescribed written/practical examination at SAMSA or by an appointed examiner. No commercial endorsement allowed unless 18 years old.
  6. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/Small-Vessels-Safety.aspx

Day Skipper - Local Waters (restricted) <9m or >9m

Capacity:

This lowest (non academic and practical) level of national certificate certifies that the candidate has demonstrated that he/she has the knowledge necessary to skipper, during daylight hours any specified category of small vessel from and to his home-port or launch site, in a specific local waters area as defined on the certificate.

The distance allowed offshore for vessels proceeding to sea is generally related to the category described, but the definition of "local waters" must be further defined and limited at the discretion of the examiner where considered necessary.

Requirement:

 

  1. Any Doctor‘s certificate
  2. Proof of identity
  3. Over 16 years old
  4. 50 hours of logged experience on appropriate vessels certified by a qualified skipper taking responsibility for tutorship
    OR 100 hours of logged service on vessels of the appropriate length
  5. The prescribed oral/practical examination at SAMSA (or by an appointed examiner, with the concurrence of the local Principal Officer) No commercial endorsement allowed unless 18 years old.
  6. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/Small-Vessels-Safety.aspx

Day Skipper - Category E <9m or >9m

Capacity:

This basic (academic) level of national certificate certifies that the candidate has demonstrated that he/she has the knowledge necessary to skipper, during daylight hours, any category E small vessel from and to his home-port or sheltered launch site, anywhere in South Africa, but limited to a distance of 1 nautical mile from shore and 15 nautical miles from an approved launch site.

Requirement:

 

  1. Any Doctor‘s certificate
  2. Proof of identity
  3. Over 16 years old
  4. 50 hours of logged experience on appropriate vessels certified by a qualified skipper taking responsibility for tutorship
    OR Attendance at a SAMSA approved training institution PLUS at least 25 hours
    OR 100 hours of logged service on vessels of the appropriate length
  5. The prescribed written AND practical examination. For conversion from a pleasure certificate >9m to a commercial certificate there is an additional oral
    examination by a SAMSA examiner. No commercial endorsement allowed unless 18 years old.
    6. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/Small-Vessels-Safety.aspx

Day Skipper – Category C <9m or >9m

Capacity:

This (academic) level of national certificate certifies that the candidate has demonstrated that he/she has the knowledge necessary to skipper, during daylight hours, any category C (or lower) small vessel from and to his home-port or sheltered launch site, anywhere in South Africa;

The sea-time requirements may be obtained on either category C or D vessels...

Requirement:

 

  1. Any Doctor‘s certificate
  2. Proof of identity
  3. Over 16 years old
  4. 50 hours of logged experience on appropriate vessels certified by a qualified skipper taking responsibility for tutorship
    OR Attendance at a SAMSA approved training institution PLUS at least 25 hours
    OR 100 hours of logged service on vessels of the appropriate length
  5. The prescribed written AND practical examination. For conversion from a pleasure certificate ≥9m to a commercial certificate there is an additional oral examination by a SAMSA examiner. No commercial endorsement allowed unless 18 years old.
  6. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/Small-Vessels-Safety.aspx

Day Skipper – Category B <9m or >9m

Capacity:

This (academic) level of national certificate certifies that the candidate has demonstrated that he/she has the knowledge necessary to skipper, during daylight hours, any category B (or lower) small vessel from and to his home-port or sheltered launch site, anywhere in South Africa;

The sea-time requirements must be obtained on category C or higher vessels.

Requirement:

 

  1. Any Doctor‘s certificate
  2. Proof of identity
  3. Over 16 years old
  4. Eyesight Test Certificate
  5. Attendance at a SAMSA approved training institution PLUS at least 50 hours logged sea service on Category C or higher vessels of the appropriate length OR 100 hours of logged sea service on Category C or higher vessels of the appropriate length certified by a qualified skipper taking responsibility for tutorship OR 200 hours of logged sea time on Category C or higher vessels of the appropriate length
  6. The prescribed written and practical examination. For conversion from a pleasure certificate >9m to a commercial certificate an additional oral examination by SAMSA. Candidate to be at least 18 years old.
  7. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/Small-Vessels-Safety.aspx

Coastal Skipper under 9m

Capacity:

This level of national certificate certifies that the candidate has demonstrated that he/she has the knowledge necessary to skipper a small motor driven vessel <9m on coastal passages, day or night, but within 40 nautical miles of the coastline.

By definition therefore any candidate who cannot attain the level of knowledge required to take a vessel 40 miles offshore cannot have the designation ‗coastal skipper‘, nor can they be allowed to navigate a vessel at night (sunset to sunrise) except if the certificate is endorsed under the conditions described further on.

Sea-time may be obtained on vessels of category C or higher, however the night hours are very important and examiners must ensure that the hours have been properly logged.

Requirement:

 

  1. Any Valid Doctor‘s Certificate
  2. Proof of identity
  3. Over 16 years old
  4. Attendance at a SAMSA approved training institution OR Holder of a Day Skipper Category B or C PLUS 150 hours logged sea time of which at least 50 hours must be logged night hours
    OR 200 hours logged sea time on Category C or higher vessels < 9 metres certified by a skipper taking responsibility for tutorship and of which at least 50 hours must be logged night hours
    OR 300 hours logged sea time on Category C or higher vessels of < 9 metres which has not been obtained under any tuition of which at least 50 hours must be logged night hours
  5. The prescribed written AND practical examination.
    Note: Candidates do not have to repeat modules already completed under this new examination system. (i.e. Conducted after 2006)
  6. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/Small-Vessels-Safety.aspx

Coastal Skipper over 9m

Capacity:

This level of national certificate certifies that the candidate has demonstrated that he/she has the knowledge necessary to skipper a small motor driven > 9m commercial vessel of < 25GT and motor driven pleasure vessels < 100GT on coastal passages, day or night, but within 40 nautical miles of the coastline.

Sea-time must be obtained on category B vessels of > 9 metres and with sufficient properly logged night hours.

Requirement:

Entry Requirements for Commercial Endorsement

  1. Over 18 years old
  2. Proof of Identity
  3. SAMSA Eyesight Test
  4. SAMSA Medical Certificate
  5. Proficiency in Life-rafts Certificate OR PST
  6. First Aid at Sea Certificate OR MFA
  7. One-day Fire Fighting Certificate OR FPFF
  8. Short Range Radio Certificate

Entry Requirements for 'Specified as Pleasure'

  1. Over 16 years old
  2. Proof of Identity
  3. Eyesight Test
  4. Any Medical Certificate
  5. 1 Day Life-rafts Certificate OR PST
  6. First Aid level 1 OR MFA
  7. Two-day Fire Fighting Certificate OR FPFF
  8. Short Range Radio Certificate Sea time for all
  9. Attendance at a SAMSA approved training institution plus 250 hours logged sea time on vessels > 9 metres of which at least 50 hours must be night hours
    OR Holder of a Day Skipper Category B > 9 metres plus 150 hours logged sea time on vessels >9 metres of which at least 50 hours must be night hours
    OR 350 logged hours obtained under tuition of a certificated skipper on vessels > 9 metres has been of which at least 50 hours must be night hours
    OR Holder of a Skipper (Coastal) or (Offshore) < 9 metres plus 100 logged hours on vessels >9 metres of which at least 50 hours must be night hours.
  10. The prescribed written AND practical examination. Oral examination by SAMSA examiner for commercial endorsement.
    Note: Candidates do not have to repeat modules already completed under this new examination system. (i.e. Conducted after 2006)
  11. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/Small-Vessels-Safety.aspx

Skipper Offshore under 9m

Capacity:

This level of national certificate certifies that the candidate has demonstrated that he/she has the experience and knowledge necessary to skipper a small motor driven vessel of either <9m commercial vessel < 25GT and recreational vessel < 100GT - according to the wording on the certificate - on any extended or ocean passage.

Sea-time may be obtained on category B vessels or higher on vessels of the appropriate length and with sufficient properly logged night hours.

Requirement:

  1. Over 18 years old
  2. Proof of Identity
  3. Eyesight Test
  4. Any Medical Certificate
  5. 1 Day Life-rafts Certificate OR PST
  6. First Aid level 1 OR MFA
  7. One-day Fire Fighting Certificate OR FPFF
  8. Short Range Radio Certificate
  9. Holder of a Day Skipper Category B <9m PLUS
    300 hours logged sea time of which at least 50 hours must be night hours and at least three overnight passages
    OR Holder of a Skipper (Coastal) <9m PLUS 100 hours logged sea time with at least three overnight passages
    OR Attendance at a SAMSA approved training institution PLUS 250 hours of logged sea-time of which 50 hours must be night hours AND at least three overnight passages
    OR 500 logged hours obtained under tuition of a certificated Skipper Offshore <9m of which at least 50 hours must be night hours and at least three overnight passages
  10. The prescribed written AND practical examination.
    Note: Candidates do not have to repeat modules already completed under this new examination system. (i.e. Conducted after 2006)
  11. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/Small-Vessels-Safety.aspx

Skipper Offshore over 9m

Capacity:

This level of national certificate certifies that the candidate has demonstrated that he/she has the experience and knowledge necessary to skipper a small motor driven vessel of either <9m or an > 9m commercial vessel < 25GT and recreational vessel < 100GT - according to the wording on the certificate - on any extended or ocean passage.

The academic levels for both divisions are similar, with the ≥9m syllabus having extra modules on 'power‘ and 'law‘.

Sea-time may be obtained on category B vessels or higher on vessels of the appropriate length and with sufficient properly logged night hours.

Requirement:

Entry Requirements for Commercial Endorsement

  1. Over 18 years old
  2. Proof of Identity
  3. SAMSA Eyesight Test
  4. SAMSA Medical Certificate
  5. Proficiency in Life-rafts Certificate OR PST
  6. First Aid at Sea Certificate OR MFA
  7. One-day Fire Fighting Certificate OR FPFF
  8. Short Range Radio Certificate

Entry Requirements for 'Specified as Pleasure'

  1. Over 16 years old
  2. Proof of Identity
  3. Eyesight Test
  4. Any Medical Certificate
  5. 1 Day Life-rafts Certificate OR PST
  6. First Aid level 1 OR MFA
  7. One-day Fire Fighting Certificate OR FPFF
  8. Short Range Radio Certificate Sea time for all
  9. Attendance at a SAMSA approved training institution
    OR Holder of a Day Skipper (Local Waters) >9 metres PLUS 500 hours logged sea time on vessels >9 metres of which at least 50 hours must be night hours and at least three overnight passages
    OR 1000 logged hours on vessels > 9 metres have been obtained under tuition of a certificated skipper of which at least 50 hours must be night hours and at least three overnight passages
    OR Holder of a Skipper (Coastal) > 9 metres plus 350 logged hours sea time hours on vessels >9 metres of which at least 50 hours must be night hours and at least three overnight passages
  10. The prescribed written and practical examination. Oral examination by a SAMSA examiner for commercial endorsement.
    Note: Candidates do not have to repeat modules already completed under this new examination system. (i.e. Conducted after 2006)
  11. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/Small-Vessels-Safety.aspx

ENDORSEMENTS

Capacity:

Commercial Dive skipper endorsement
This is a specific and additional endorsement which can be added separately to any of the above mentioned national certificates.

All skippers operating a commercial diving or dive charter vessel are required to have this endorsement added to their Small Vessel Certificate of Competence before SAMSA considers the vessel to be properly and safely manned.

Passenger Vessel endorsements to national certification (May only be issued by a SAMSA office.)
Note that all skippers operating a small passenger vessel (i.e. carrying more than 12 passengers) are required to have this endorsement added to their Small Vessel Certificate of Competence before SAMSA considers the vessel to be properly and safely manned.

Passenger vessel endorsement (Restricted)
Allows the skipper to be in charge of a passenger vessel on a particular restricted inland waterway (as specified) and shall indicate whether the skipper is qualified to operate the passenger vessel at night or otherwise state the limitations of any night operations.

NB. Change in policy – Note that this restricted passenger vessel endorsement will no longer be acceptable for operations within TNPA ports. An unrestricted passenger vessel endorsement will be required.

Passenger Vessel endorsement (Unrestricted)
The endorsement shall indicate whether the skipper is qualified to operate any <25GT passenger vessel operating anywhere in South Africa. It may be used at night unless otherwise limited by the examiner.
Note that this additional endorsement is not the same as the Commercial Night Operations endorsement described in the next part.

This requirement includes any current dive charter, whale watching or shark diving vessels operating with more than 12 passengers.

Commercial Night Operation endorsement (May only be issued by a SAMSA Deck Examiner and MUST be signed by the relevant Principal Officer)
This endorsement is available only to bona fide commercial fishers (especially traditional fishers) who for whatever reason are unable to attain the higher level of certificate (i.e. Coastal Skipper) which is the normal level of competence before being allowed to venture out to sea at night. The candidates must however hold at least a Day Skipper (Local Waters) Certificate and have accumulated sufficient experience in the local area (very limited area to be defined by a SAMSA office) to satisfy the SAMSA examiner that the endorsement is warranted.

Any such endorsements must be severely limited in the area of operation as it is only intended to assist locally based traditional fishers and NOT to replace the attempt to improve the safety standards, training and certification of commercial fishers.

Externally appointed examiners or accredited institutions may not examine candidates for this endorsement. Any Commercial Night Operation Endorsement must be signed by the Principal Officer before being submitted to the Registrar of Seafarers.

Sailing Endorsement to a national certificate (May only be issued by specifically appointed examiners)
No separate or combined motor and sailing certification is envisaged, sailing competency will be reflected on a national motor driven certificate by way of an additional endorsement.

This endorsement is available to candidates who have passed a relevant SAS examination (i.e. Day Skipper, Coastal Skipper, Skipper Offshore and Skipper Ocean recreational sailing certification) and are upgrading to the national certification.

It is also possible for SAMSA appointed examiners to examine candidates for the issue of this endorsement, but only where specifically appointed to do so.

Surf Launching Endorsement (May be issued by appointed examiners)
The standard national certificate is only intended to cover vessels operating from a port, fishing harbour or protected launch site and certainly does not certify that the holder is competent to tackle the high energy surf and river launches experienced on the South African south and eastern coastlines.

The purpose of this endorsement is to indicate which skippers have demonstrated their proficiency in this particular and necessary skill. There is a huge difference in the skill required to launch a personal water craft through the surf compared to a 9 metre semi rigid vessel. For this reason, it is imperative
that the endorsement be carefully worded when issued.

NOTE: This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/Small-Vessels-Safety.aspx

Specialised Careers

The listed career opportunities are all STCW qualifications and are definitely not an exhaustive list. They are not always restricted to one industry like Fishing, Foreign going or Port operations and even if they are, there are ways to progress from one industry to the other. These opportunities therefore exist on board fishing vessels, Cruise vessels and Port opartions and provide a range of career choices. At the very least, candidates must possess some of the STCW Basic Safety Training certifications and meet medical fitness requirements. Opportunities may arise directly from ship owners or through participation in structured training programs offered by MET institutions or placement agents known as Cadetships, leading to progression through various ranks. It's essential to ensure that any recruitment and placement agency involved is MLC-approved, as they play a crucial role in guiding and protecting seafarers' interests.

Below, you'll find distinct career pathways to consider. It's crucial to conduct thorough research and make informed decisions, as the sea service accumulated onboard may contribute to one route but not all. The below guidance is intended for career guidance and may change from time to time. It is better to consult SSTG or the accreditation body for the latest requirements.

Deck or Engineering Career

Radio Operator

Capacity:

The certificates of competency, with their limitations, endorsements and relative levels of responsibility (if any), for radio operators:
(a) GMDSS first-class radio electronic certificate.
(b) GMDSS second-class radio electronic certificate.
(c) GMDSS general operator's certificate [STCW Regulation IV/2]: Radiocommunication (operational level) [STCW Reg IV/2]
(d) Radio operators:
(i) Long range certificate
(ii) Short range certificate

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate (STCW - A-VI/2)

Efficient Cook

Capacity:

To sail onboard ship and fishing vessels as the assistant or head cook.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Efficient Cook (MLC Reg 3.2 para 3)
  9. 3 Months sea service on vessel over 100 GT or fishing vessels requiring an efficient cook.
  10. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Electro Technical Rating (ETR)

Capacity:

An Electro Technical Rating (ETR), also called ship’s electrician, performs duties prescribed by STCW regulation III/7 of STCW with amendments and section A-III/7 & section B-III/7 of STCW Code. ETR performs electrical, electronic and control engineering functions and duties at a support level on a ship of any propulsion power in any operating area.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Electro Technical Rating Course (STCW - A-III/7)
  9. Must have completed approved seagoing service including not less than 12 months' training and experience
  10. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Electro-technical Officer (ETO)

Capacity:

An ETO manages a key role in the Senior Management Team and reports directly to the Chief Engineer.

An ETO does not carry out an assigned Engine room "watch" instead they are normally on call 24 hours a day and generally work a daily shift carrying out electrical and electronic maintenance, repairs, diagnosis, installations and testing.

Requirement:

 

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  7. SAMSA medical Certificate or some countries may require an ENG1 medical certificate.
  8. Electro Technical Officer Course (STCW - A-III/6)
  9. Workshop Training at a SAMSA approved institution.
  10. 12 Months sea time on ships with 1000 Volts and over 750kW.
  11. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult SAMSA for the minimum requirements. https://www.samsa.org.za/Pages/All-Forms.aspx

Coming Soon?

Not Applicable

New Career Opportunities will be listed when available. For specific requests, please Contact Us!

Career on Cruise Liners

This industry offers various positions at sea. If we do it ashore, then there is most probably such a position onboard and the cruise industry is looking for those qualified candidates. This can be Engineers, baristas, chefs, waiters, refrigeration specialists, technicians, cleaners, Entertainers and so the list goes on. Most cruise liners require that you have some experience in your career of choice. This varies according to the task at hand.

Your employment might be seasonal but at the same time exist as you will see the world whilst being paid to perform your duties. At the very least, candidates must possess some of the STCW Basic Safety Training certifications and meet medical fitness requirements. You may also want to become a Captain or Engineer onboard a cruise liner, then follow the Foreign Going Career route.

Opportunities may arise directly from ship owners or there are many recruitment agents for the cruise industry. It's essential to ensure that any recruitment and placement agency involved is MLC-approved, as they play a crucial role in guiding and protecting seafarers' interests.

The below guidance is intended for career guidance and may change from time to time. It is better to consult SSTG or the accreditation body for recent requirements.

Deck Career

Cruise Liner Basic Requirements

Capacity:

Various positions onboard cruise ships

Requirement:

You may be employed in various positions. You will need your normal qualification and experience to be selected as, a chef, Deckhand, Waiter, Barista, Electrician, Engineer, Housekeeping and more...

Over and above that the following items are part of the additional requirements that you will have to meet.

  1. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  2. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  3. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
    OR Medical First Aid (Including Elementary First Aid) STCW A-VI/4-1 & STCW A-VI/1-3
  5. Passenger Ship Crowd Management – STCW A-V/2, para 1 & 2 (1 Day)
  6. Security Awareness Training STCW A-VI/6-1 (1 Day)
    OR Designated Security Duties STCW A-Vl/6-2 (2 Days)

Other Requirements:

  • Age - Some cruise lines accept 18 years but mostly it is 21.
  • Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA and in many cases cruise liners request a Bermuda, Panama or any other acceptable Flagstate.
  • ENG1 or an ML5 seafarer medical fitness certificate or (PEME) pre-employement and re-employment seafarer medical.
  • Vacinations - MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) - universal 3-in-1 vaccine and ChickenPox – universal vacination.
  • Passport – with at least 12- 18 Moths validity.
  • Visa – Depending on where you will work there may be visa or work permit requirements.
  • English – You must be able to communicate well in English.

Coming Soon?

Not Applicable

New Career Opportunities will be listed when available. For specific requests, please Contact Us!

Career on Super Yachts

This industry offers various positions at sea onboard luxury yachts across the world.  You can be a deckhand, chef, engineer, stewardess or one of the officers. It is a rewarding career where hard work is required to keep your guests happy and cared for. At the very least, candidates must possess STCW Basic Safety Training certifications and meet medical fitness requirements. Opportunities may arise directly with you walking the quay searching for a placement or you may be recruited by a recruitment agent. It's essential to ensure that any recruitment and placement agency involved is MLC-approved, as they play a crucial role in guiding and protecting seafarers' interests. The below careers are two distinct paths you may want to take. The option always exists just to stay as a chef, steward or head stewardess.

The below guidance is intended for career guidance and may change from time to time. It is better to consult SSTG or the accreditation body for the latest requirements.

Engine Room Career

Crewmember

Capacity:

Able to sail as a crewmember on Fishing Vessels.

Requirement:

  1. Older than 15
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  4. SAMSA medical Certificate> Then if assigned medical, pollution or fire duties you would need:
  5. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  6. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  7. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  8. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)

Approved Engine Course (AEC)

Capacity:

Able to sail as a crewmember on Fishing Vessels.

Requirement:

  1. Older than 18
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Seamans Discharge Book
  4. ENG 1 medical Certificate
  5. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  6. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  7. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  8. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)
  9. Sea Time: Show a
  10. Successfully complete an MCA-Approved Engine Course (AEC) of at least 30 hours in duration.
  11. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult MCA for the minimum requirements. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/certification-for-deck-officers-on-commercial-and-private-yachts

Marine Engine Operators License (MEOL) Yacht:

Capacity:

Able to sail as a crewmember on Fishing Vessels.

Requirement:

  1. Older than 19
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Seamans Discharge Book
  4. ENG 1 medical Certificate
  5. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  6. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  7. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  8. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)
  9. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  10. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  11. Security Awareness certificate (STCW A-VI/6-4)
  12. Medical First Aid (STCW - A-V1/4-1)
  13. Sea Time: 36 months’ service as a dual purpose deck/engineer officer responsible for the maintenance and servicing of yachts of 200 kW or more in propulsion power. At least 50% of this time must have been spent in the in the engine room; or 24 months’ service as a yacht engineer responsible for system maintenance on yachts of 200 kW or more in propulsion power;
  14. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult MCA for the minimum requirements. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/certification-for-deck-officers-on-commercial-and-private-yachts

Chief Engineer, STCW Convention regulation III/3, Certificate of Competency -Yacht 4 (Y4)

Capacity:

The ‘Y4’ Certificate of Competency will carry the following capacity and limitations:

(i) Chief Engineer commercially and privately operated yachts and sail training vessels less than 200 GT and less than 1,500 kW propulsion power;
(ii) Second Engineer commercially and privately operated yachts and sail training vessels less than 500 GT and less than 3,000 kW propulsion power;
(iii) OOW Engineering commercially and privately operated yachts and sail training vessels only less than 3,000 GT and less than 9,000 kW propulsion power.

Requirement:

  1. Older than 19
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Seamans Discharge Book
  4. ENG 1 medical Certificate
  5. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  6. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  7. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  8. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)
  9. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  10. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  11. Security Awareness certificate (STCW A-VI/6-4)
  12. Medical First Aid (STCW - A-V1/4-1)
  13. Optional - High Voltage Operational
  14. HELM Operational
  15. Pass all subjects at a MCA approved institution. SQA Marine Diesel Engineering; SQA Auxiliary Equipment; SQA Operational Procedures, Basic Hotel Services and Ship Construction;
  16. Sea Time -42 months’ service as a yacht engineer, with a minimum of 12 months on yachts of 350 kW or more in propulsion power which inclusive of at least 6 months’ actual seagoing service; or 12 months’ service as a yacht engineer, on yachts of 350 kW or more in propulsion power, while holding a yacht MEOL or Merchant Navy MEOL, which includes at least 6 months actual seagoing service; or 6 months’ service as a yacht engineer, of 350 kW or more in propulsion power while, holding a Merchant Navy SMEOL, which includes at least 3 months’ actual seagoing service;
  17. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult MCA for the minimum requirements. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/certification-for-deck-officers-on-commercial-and-private-yachts

Chief Engineer, STCW Convention regulation III/3, Certificate of Competency -Yacht 3 (Y3)

Capacity:

The ‘Y3’ Certificate of Competency will carry the following capacity and limitations:

(i) Chief Engineer commercially and privately operated yachts and sail training vessels less than 500 GT and less than 3,000 kW propulsion power;
(ii) Second Engineer commercially and privately operated yachts and sail training vessels less than 3,000 GT and less than 3,000 kW propulsion power;
(iii) OOW Engineering commercially and privately operated yachts and sail training vessels only less than 3,000 GT and less than 9,000 kW propulsion power;

Requirement:

  1. Older than 19
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Seamans Discharge Book
  4. ENG 1 medical Certificate
  5. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  6. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  7. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  8. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)
  9. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  10. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  11. Security Awareness certificate (STCW A-VI/6-4)
  12. Medical First Aid (STCW - A-V1/4-1)
  13. Optional - High Voltage Operational
  14. HELM Operational
  15. Pass all subjects at a MCA approved institution. Marine Diesel Engineering2; Auxiliary Equipment2; Operational Procedures, Basic Hotel Services and Ship Construction2; Chief Engineer Statutory and Operational Requirements;
  16. Sea Time -9 months’ service as a yacht engineer, on yachts of 350 kW or more in propulsion power, while holding a Yacht 4 Certificate of Competency, which includes at least 3 months’ actual seagoing service; or
    51 months’ service as a yacht engineer, of which at least 21 months must be on yachts of 350 kW or more in propulsion power, which includes at least 9 months’ actual seagoing service;
  17. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult MCA for the minimum requirements. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/certification-for-deck-officers-on-commercial-and-private-yachts

Chief Engineer, STCW Convention regulation III/2, Certificate of Competency -Yacht 2 (Y2)

Capacity:

The ‘Y2’ Certificate of Competency will carry the following capacity and limitations:

(i) Chief Engineer commercially and privately operated yachts and sail training vessels less than 3,000 GT and less than 3,000 kW propulsion power;
(ii) Second Engineer commercially and privately operated yachts and sail training vessels less than 3,000 GT and less than 6,000 kW propulsion power;
(iii) OOW Engineering commercially and privately operated yachts and sail training vessels only less than 3,000 GT and less than 9,000 kW propulsion power.

Requirement:

  1. Older than 19
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Seamans Discharge Book
  4. ENG 1 medical Certificate
  5. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  6. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  7. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  8. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)
  9. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  10. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  11. Security Awareness certificate (STCW A-VI/6-4)
  12. Medical First Aid (STCW - A-V1/4-1)
  13. Optional High Voltage Management
  14. HELM Management
  15. Pass all subjects at a MCA approved institution. General Engineering Science (GES) I & II; Applied Marine Engineering; Chief Engineer Statutory and Operational Requirements3; Advanced Hotel Services;
  16. Sea Time -24 months’ service as a yacht engineer, on yachts of 350 kW or more in propulsion power, while holding a Yacht 4 Certificate of Competency, which includes at least 12 months’ actual seagoing service; or 15 months’ service as a yacht engineer, on yachts of 350 kW or more in propulsion power, while holding a Yacht 3 Certificate of Competency, which includes at least 9 months’ actual seagoing service;
  17. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult MCA for the minimum requirements. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/certification-for-deck-officers-on-commercial-and-private-yachts

Chief Engineer, STCW Convention regulation III/2, Certificate of Competency -Yacht (Y1)

Capacity:

The ‘Y1’ Certificate of Competency will carry the following capacity and limitations:

(i) Chief Engineer commercially and privately operated yachts and sail training vessels less than 3,000 GT and less than 9,000 kW propulsion power;
(ii) Second Engineer commercially and privately operated yachts and sail training vessels less than 3,000 GT and less than 9,000 kW propulsion power;
(iii) OOW Engineering commercially and privately operated yachts and sail training vessels only less than 3,000 GT and less than 9,000 kW propulsion power.

Requirement:

  1. Older than 19
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Seamans Discharge Book
  4. ENG 1 medical Certificate
  5. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  6. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  7. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  8. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)
  9. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  10. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  11. Security Awareness certificate (STCW A-VI/6-4)
  12. Medical First Aid (STCW - A-V1/4-1)
  13. Optional High Voltage Management
  14. HELM Management
  15. Pass all subjects at a MCA approved institution. SQA Marine Diesel Engineering; SQA Auxiliary Equipment; SQA Operational Procedures, Basic Hotel Services and Ship Construction;
  16. Sea Time -12 months’ service as a yacht engineer, on motor yachts of 1500 kW or more in propulsion power and at least 500 GT, while holding a Y2 Certificate of Competency; or
    12 months’ service as a yacht engineer, on sailing yachts of 1500 kW or more in propulsion power and at least 1000 GT, while holding a Y2 Certificate of Competency;
  17. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult MCA for the minimum requirements. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/certification-for-deck-officers-on-commercial-and-private-yachts

Deck Career

Crewmember

Capacity:

Able to sail as a crewmember on Fishing Vessels.

Requirement:

  1. Older than 15
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Seamans Discharge Book - Obtainable at SAMSA
  4. SAMSA medical Certificate> Then if assigned medical, pollution or fire duties you would need:
  5. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  6. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  7. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  8. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)

Yacht Rating

Capacity:

Able to sail as a crewmember on Fishing Vessels.

Requirement:

  1. Older than 16
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Seamans Discharge Book
  4. ENG 1 medical Certificate
  5. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  6. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  7. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  8. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)
  9. Sea Time: Show at least 6 months’ onboard yacht service, including 2 months’ actual seagoing service, all of which must be on vessels of at least 15 metres or over in load line length;
  10. Complete the Yacht Rating Training Record Book
  11. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult MCA for the minimum requirements. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/certification-for-deck-officers-on-commercial-and-private-yachts

Efficient Deck Hand

Capacity:

Able to sail as a crewmember on Fishing Vessels.

Requirement:

  1. Older than 17
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Seamans Discharge Book
  4. ENG 1 medical Certificate
  5. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  6. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  7. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  8. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)
  9. Sea Time: Show at least 6 months’ onboard yacht service, including 2 months’ actual seagoing service, all of which must be on vessels of at least 15 metres or over in load line length;
  10. Complete the Yacht Rating Training Record Book
  11. Note: before an EDH certificate can be issued, a minimum of 6 months’ seagoing service in vessels of 15m or more is required. Seagoing service in category C and D waters will be accepted at full rate.
  12. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult MCA for the minimum requirements. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/certification-for-deck-officers-on-commercial-and-private-yachts

RYA Yacht Master Coastal or IYT Master of Yachts Coastal

Capacity:

Master with a Tonnage restriction

Requirement:

  1. Be at least 18 years of age;
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)
  7. Seamans Discharge Book
  8. ENG1 medical certificate and Eyesight test.
  9. HELM - Operational
  10. Optional - ECDIS Generic Course (STCW - A‐II/1 & A-II/2)
  11. GMDSS Restricted Operator’s Certificate (STCW - A-VI/2)
  12. Pass all subjects at a MCA approved institution.
  13. Sea Time -Have completed 6 months’ seagoing service while holding an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore or IYT Master of Yachts Limited certificate;
  14. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult MCA for the minimum requirements. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/certification-for-deck-officers-on-commercial-and-private-yachts

MCA - Master (Code Vessels, less than 200 GT 150 miles from safe haven) OR Equivalent Certificates - RYA Yacht Master Offshore or IYT Master of Yachts limited.

Capacity:

Master with a tonnage restriction

Requirement:

  1. Be at least 18 years of age;
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)
  7. Seamans Discharge Book
  8. ENG1 medical certificate and Eyesight test.
  9. HELM - Operational
  10. Optional - ECDIS Generic Course (STCW - A‐II/1 & A-II/2)
  11. GMDSS Restricted Operator’s Certificate (STCW - A-VI/2)
  12. Pass all subjects at a MCA approved institution. Hold either:
    RYA Yachtmaster offshore certificate and a certificate of successful completion of a shore-based Yachtmaster Offshore course*; or
    IYT Master of Yachts Limited;
  13. Sea Time -Have completed 6 months’ seagoing service while holding an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore or IYT Master of Yachts Limited certificate;
  14. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult MCA for the minimum requirements. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/certification-for-deck-officers-on-commercial-and-private-yachts

MCA - Master (Code Vessels, less than 200GT unlimited) OR Equivalent Certificates - RYA Yacht Master Ocean or IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited.

Capacity:

Master with a tonnage restriction

Requirement:

  1. Be at least 18 years of age;
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)
  7. Seamans Discharge Book
  8. ENG1 medical certificate and Eyesight test.
  9. HELM - Operational
  10. Optional - ECDIS Generic Course (STCW - A‐II/1 & A-II/2)
  11. GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate (STCW - A-VI/2)
  12. Pass all subjects at a MCA approved institution. An RYA Yachtmaster Ocean certificate and a certificate of successful completion of a shore-based Yachtmaster Ocean course*; or
    An IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited;
  13. Have completed 6 months’ seagoing service while holding an RYA Yachtmaster Ocean or IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited certificate;
  14. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult MCA for the minimum requirements. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/certification-for-deck-officers-on-commercial-and-private-yachts

OOW (Yachts, less than 500GT unlimited)

Capacity:

Mate with a tonnage restriction

Requirement:

  1. Be at least 18 years of age;
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)
  7. Seamans Discharge Book
  8. ENG1 medical certificate and Eyesight test.
  9. HELM - Operational
  10. Optional - ECDIS Generic Course (STCW - A‐II/1 & A-II/2)
  11. GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate (STCW - A-VI/2)
  12. Pass all subjects at a MCA approved institution. An RYA Yachtmaster Ocean certificate and a certificate of successful completion of a shore-based Yachtmaster Ocean course*; or
    An IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited;
  13. Have completed 6 months’ seagoing service while holding an RYA Yachtmaster Ocean or IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited certificate;
  14. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult MCA for the minimum requirements. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/certification-for-deck-officers-on-commercial-and-private-yachts

OOW (Yachts, less than 3000GT unlimited).

Capacity:

Mate with a tonnage restriction

Requirement:

  1. Be at least 19 years of age;
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)
  7. Seamans Discharge Book
  8. ENG1 medical certificate and Eyesight test.
  9. HELM - Operational
  10. ECDIS Generic Course (STCW - A‐II/1 & A-II/2)
  11. GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate (STCW - A-VI/2)
  12. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  13. Efficient Deck Hand
  14. Pass all subjects at a MCA approved institution. Successful completion of the MCA-approved ‘Navigation and Radar (OOW yachts)’ training module and passing the corresponding IAMI written examination; and Successful completion of the MCA-approved ‘General Ship Knowledge (OOW yachts)’ training module and passing the corresponding IAMI written examination; and Completion of Yacht Training Record Book.
  15. Sea Time -Hold either:
    An RYA Yachtmaster certificate Offshore and a certificate of successful completion of a shore-based Yachtmaster Offshore course*; or An IYT Master of Yachts Limited certificate;
    and since the age of 16 have obtained a minimum of 36 months’ onboard yacht service. This must include at least 365 days seagoing service on vessels of 15 metres or over in load line length, made up of: A minimum of 250 days’ ACTUAL sea going service and 115 days of any combination of the following:
    • Actual sea service;
    • Stand-by service - A maximum of 14 consecutive days may be counted at one time, but on no occasion may a period of standby service exceed that of the previous voyage;
    • Yard service - up to a maximum of 90 days continuously or in separate periods;
  16. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult MCA for the minimum requirements. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/certification-for-deck-officers-on-commercial-and-private-yachts

Chief Mate (Yachts, less than 3000 GT unlimited)

Capacity:

Mate with a tonnage restriction

Requirement:

  1. Be at least 19 years of age;
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)
  7. Seamans Discharge Book
  8. ENG1 medical certificate and Eyesight test.
  9. HELM - Management
  10. ECDIS Generic Course (STCW - A‐II/1 & A-II/2)
  11. GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate (STCW - A-VI/2)
  12. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  13. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  14. Medical First Aid (STCW - A-V1/4-1)
  15. Pass all subjects at a MCA approved institution. Hold an OOW yachts, less than 3000 GT, II/1, Certificate of Competency OR An RYA Yachtmaster Ocean certificate and a certificate of successful completion of a shore-based Yachtmaster Ocean course*; or
    An IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited;
  16. Sea Time -This certificate can be applied for at the same time as OOW yachts, less than 3000 GT, II/1, Certificate of Competency, providing all qualifying conditions OOW yachts are met in addition to the Chief Mate, II/2, yachts less than 3000 GT.
  17. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult MCA for the minimum requirements. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/certification-for-deck-officers-on-commercial-and-private-yachts

Master (Yachts, less than 500 GT unlimited)

Capacity:

Master with a tonnage restriction

Requirement:

  1. Be at least 19 years of age;
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)
  7. Seamans Discharge Book
  8. ENG1 medical certificate and Eyesight test.
  9. HELM - Management
  10. ECDIS Generic Course (STCW - A‐II/1 & A-II/2)
  11. GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate (STCW - A-VI/2)
  12. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  13. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  14. Medical First Aid (STCW - A-V1/4-1)
  15. Medical Care (STCW - A-VI/4-2)
  16. Pass all subjects at a MCA approved institution. Hold an MCA OOW yachts, less than 3000 GT, II/1, Certificate of Competency; and Successful completion of an MCA-approved ‘Seamanship and Meteorology (Master Yachts)’ training module and passing the corresponding IAMI module written examination; and Successful completion of an MCA-approved ‘Stability (Master Yachts)’ training module and passing the corresponding IAMI module written examination; and Successful completion of an MCA-approved ‘Business and Law (Master Yachts)’ training module and passing the corresponding IAMI module written examination; and Successful completion of an MCA-approved ‘Navigation, Radar and ARPA Simulator (Master Yachts)’ training module and passing the corresponding IAMI module written examination; and Passing the IAMI ‘Celestial Navigation’ written examination;
  17. Sea Time -Have completed a minimum of 12 months’ onboard yacht service as a deck officer, including at least 120 days watchkeeping service, in vessels of 15 metres or over in load line length while holding an OOW yachts, less than 3000 GT, II/1 Certificate of Competency;
  18. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult MCA for the minimum requirements. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/certification-for-deck-officers-on-commercial-and-private-yachts

Master (Yachts, less than 3000 GT unlimited)

Capacity:

Master with a tonnage restriction

Requirement:

  1. Be at least 19 years of age;
  2. Personal Survival Techniques (STCW - A-VI/1-1)
  3. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW - A-VI/1-2)
  4. Elementary First Aid (STCW - A-VI/1-3)
  5. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW - A-VI/1-4)
  6. Designated Security Duties (STCW A-Vl/6-2)
  7. Seamans Discharge Book
  8. ENG1 medical certificate and Eyesight test.
  9. HELM - Management
  10. ECDIS Generic Course (STCW - A‐II/1 & A-II/2)
  11. GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate (STCW - A-VI/2)
  12. Proficiency in survival crafts and rescue boats other than FRB (STCW - A-VI/2-1)
  13. Advanced Fire Fighting (including Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting - Refresher) (STCW A-VI/3 & Section A-VI/1-2)
  14. Medical First Aid (STCW - A-V1/4-1)
  15. Medical Care (STCW - A-VI/4-2)
  16. Pass all subjects at a MCA approved institution. Hold an MCA Master yachts, less than 500 GT, II/2, Certificate of Competency and a pass certificate for the IAMI ‘Celestial Navigation’ written examination; OR
    Certificates demonstrating successful completion of all of the MCA-approved yacht modules and IAMI written examinations passes applicable to the Master yachts, less than 500 GT, II/2, Certificate of Competency (Celestial Navigation must be less than 1 year old and all other IAMI written exam pass certificates must be less than 3 years old prior to the issue of this Certificate of Competency);
  17. Sea Time -Have completed a minimum of 24 months’ onboard yacht service as a Deck Officer, including at least 240 days watchkeeping service while holding an OOW yachts, less than 3000 GT, II/1, Certificate of Competency. All of this service must be completed in vessels of 15 metres or over in load line length and include; 12 months in vessels of 24 metres or over in load line length, or 6 months in vessels of 500 GT or more;
  18. This is intended as a general guide. There are more smaller requirements but easy enough to put in place. These requirements may change from time to time so it is always best to consult MCA for the minimum requirements. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/certification-for-deck-officers-on-commercial-and-private-yachts