If you’re looking to break into the yachting industry, one of the first and most essential steps is obtaining your STCW certification. When I started my yachting career over eight years ago, I had no idea what STCW was or how to get it. Now, having worked on multiple yachts and gone through the process myself, I’m here to break it down for you.
What is STCW and Why Do You Need It?
STCW stands for the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping. It’s an internationally recognized certification required for anyone working on commercially registered yachts, superyachts, or other vessels over a certain size (usually 24 meters). The certification ensures that crew members know how to handle emergencies, prevent fires, administer first aid, and understand basic safety protocols. Simply put, without it, you won’t be able to work on most yachts.
What’s Included in the STCW Course?
The STCW Basic Safety Training consists of five core modules:
- Personal Survival Techniques – Covers what to do in case of an emergency at sea, including life raft drills and survival strategies.
- Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting – Involves hands-on experience with fire extinguishers, hoses, and proper firefighting techniques.
- Elementary First Aid – Basic first aid training tailored to maritime environments.
- Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities – Focuses on workplace safety, accident prevention, and working effectively in a team.
- Proficiency in Security Awareness – Provides awareness of security threats and how to respond appropriately.
These modules give you the fundamental skills to react quickly and appropriately in an emergency—something that could make all the difference at sea.
How to Get Your STCW Certification
1. Find a Training Center
The first step is choosing a reputable maritime training center. Most major yachting hubs like Fort Lauderdale, Antibes, Palma, and Barcelona have multiple schools offering STCW courses. It’s important to pick an accredited center that follows IMO regulations.
2. Meet the Requirements
Before signing up, ensure you meet the basic requirements:
- Minimum age: Usually 18 years old.
- Medical fitness: Some schools require an ENG1 medical certificate (which is also needed for most yacht jobs).
- Valid ID/passport: You’ll need this for registration and certification purposes.
3. Enroll and Complete the Course
The STCW Basic Safety Training typically takes five to seven days to complete. Some schools offer intensive five-day courses, while others spread it out over a week or more.
The course includes both theoretical and practical sessions, so be prepared for physical activities like jumping into the water, using firefighting equipment, and performing CPR. If you’re not used to physical exertion, it might be a bit challenging, but it’s completely doable.
4. Get Your Certification
After completing all five modules, you’ll receive your STCW certificate. This is valid for five years, after which you’ll need to do a refresher course to stay compliant.
How Much Does STCW Training Cost?
The price varies depending on the training location, but on average, you can expect to pay between €900 and €1,800. Some schools offer package deals that include extra courses like the Powerboat Level 2, which is useful if you’re planning to work as a deckhand.
How Long Does it Take?
The entire process – from finding a school to completing the training – can be done in as little as a week. If you’re organized and book your course in advance, you can start applying for yacht jobs within days of receiving your certification.
What Comes After STCW?
While STCW is the minimum requirement, it’s not the only certification you might need. Depending on your desired role on a yacht, you may also need:
- ENG1 Medical Certificate – A mandatory health check for crew working at sea.
- Food Safety & Hygiene Level 2 – Required for stewardesses and chefs.
- Powerboat Level 2 – Useful for deckhands handling tenders.
- PDSD (Proficiency in Designated Security Duties) – Required for some security-related roles.
Final Thoughts: Is STCW Worth It?
Absolutely. If you’re serious about joining the yachting industry, STCW is a non-negotiable requirement. It’s an investment, but one that opens the door to a career filled with travel, adventure, and high earning potential.
If you’re ready to get started, my advice is to research training centers in your preferred yachting hub, book your course in advance, and make sure you meet all the requirements before attending.
Once you have your STCW certification in hand, you’re officially ready to start applying for yacht jobs and begin your journey in this incredible industry.
Need more guidance? Drop your questions in the comments, and I’ll be happy to help!
