Maritime qualifications are certifications and licenses that demonstrate the competence and experience of individuals working in the maritime industry. The types of maritime qualifications vary depending on the role, such as deck officer, engineer officer, or seafarer, as well as the country or region where the qualifications are recognized. Here are some of the most common types of maritime qualifications in the UK and globally:
- Certificate of Competency (CoC): A CoC is a certificate that certifies that an individual has met the competency standards for a specific role, such as master or chief engineer, and is authorized to serve in that role on board a ship.
- Seafarer’s Identification and Record Book (SIRB): A SIRB is a passport-like document that identifies an individual as a seafarer and provides a record of the individual’s training and certification.
- International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Certificates: The STCW is a set of international standards that prescribe the minimum training, certification, and experience requirements for seafarers. The STCW certificates include Basic Safety Training, Advanced Fire Fighting, Medical Care, and others.
- International Maritime Organization (IMO) Certificates: The IMO is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for maritime safety and security. The IMO issues certificates for specific roles, such as navigational watchkeeping, oil and chemical tanker operations, and others.
- Professional Yachting Association (PYA) Certificates: The PYA is a professional association for yacht crew that provides training and certification for yacht crew. The PYA certificates include the Gulet Rating, Interior Yacht Service, and others.
- Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Certificates: The RYA is a UK-based organization that provides training and certification for yacht crew, sailing instructors, and yacht skippers. The RYA certificates include the International Certificate of Competence (ICC), the Day Skipper, and others.
These are some of the most common types of maritime qualifications, but the specific qualifications required will depend on the role and the country or region where the individual will be working. It’s important to check with the relevant authorities to ensure that you have the appropriate qualifications for the role you are interested in.