A Comprehensive Guide to Superyacht Crew Certificates and License Renewals
Working in the superyacht industry is an exhilarating and demanding career choice that requires a unique set of skills, qualifications, and ongoing certifications. Superyacht crew members are responsible for the safety and smooth operation of these luxurious vessels, making it crucial for them to maintain and renew or revalidate various key certificates and licenses regularly to stay compliant with regulations. Discover a comprehensive guide on superyacht crew certificates and license renewals. Understand the certification process, renewal requirements, and key steps to maintain compliance with maritime regulations. Stay informed about necessary qualifications and ensure your crew meets industry standards to operate legally and efficiently in the maritime sector.
Medical Fitness certificate ( ENG1)
Crew members are required to have an up-to-date medical fitness certificate as proof that they are fit for the job. Crew members will have to get a new medical Fitness certificate every 2 years. Head to the Deck, Engineering or Interior department to find a medical practitioner closest to your location
Basic Safety refresher training ( STCW)
The two courses that you will need refresher training for in this section is Personal survival techniques and Fire prevention and Fire fighting. These certificates require refresher training every 5 years. You can find these courses, usually available in a package format at any accredited training provider. Refresher training for these two courses are usually between 1.5 – 2 days of training. You can use the Course Finder on our website to find the training provider closest to you.
Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats (other than Fast Rescue Boats)
This certificate requires refresher training to be done every 5 years for the issue of a new certificate. Refresher training for this course is an estimated 5 days. You can once again proceed to the Course Finder page page to find an accredited training provider closest to you.
GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate (GOC)
This License requires re validation every 5 years. You must apply using this form and include your original GMDSS certificate, up to date medical fitness certificate, Basic safety refresher certificates and original or attested copies of your discharge book to prove sea going service of at least 12 months in the last 5 years.
You can request re validation of your license by completing this form together with the required supporting documents to Deck & GMDSS Section, Seafarer Training & Certification Branch, Maritime & Coastguard Agency, Spring Place, 105 Commercial Road, Southampton, SO15 1EG. It is recommended that you send the documents via registered post or courier. Processing of your application will take 14 days, but incomplete applications will delay the process.
RYA Yachtmaster offshore and Ocean
Your commercially endorsed RYA yacht master and or Ocean license required re validation every 5 years. You will be required to complete the revalidation from and submit it to the RYA together with your ENG1, original issued License and STCW certificates. The application form and supporting documents must be returned to Certification Department, RYA House, Ensign Way, Hamble, Southampton SO31 4YA.
IYT Master of Yachts limited and Unlimited
Revalidation of your IYT master of yachts Limited and Unlimited license require re validation every 5 years. You can apply for revalidation on the IYT Website by logging into your profile and selecting the license which you wish to revalidate. You are required to submit Documented proof of 50 days at sea on yachts within the last 5 years (sea time logbook scans or testimonial letters from captain, yacht owner or management company) on yachts more then 10m in length. You will also be required to submit a medical fitness certificate, all basic safety certificates and refresher certificates.
UK Certificate of Competency
MCA COC’s have to be revalidated every 5 years. You can apply for the revalidation of your COC by completing this form and send it to revalidation@mcga.gov.uk with the relevant supporting documents. Different supporting documents apply to different COC’s, but the application form gives a clear guideline of what is to be submitted from pages 6 – 8. The revalidation turnaround time is estimated at 14 days, but if any issues arise this turnaround time might be longer. If you are still not sure about the documents to be submitted to revalidate your COC you can also visit the MCA Website which gives a detailed outline of what to expect when submitting your revalidation application.
Importance of Timely Renewal:
Failure to renew or revalidate key certificates and licenses on time can have serious consequences for superyacht crew members. Non-compliance can result in legal issues, fines, or even the inability to perform duties on board. Additionally, employers may require proof of up-to-date certifications, and crew members may face challenges in securing new job opportunities without valid documentation.
Conclusion:
Maintaining the proper certifications and licenses is not only a legal requirement but also a fundamental aspect of ensuring the safety and efficiency of superyacht operations. Crew members must be proactive in understanding the renewal or revalidation timelines for each certification and allow sufficient time for refresher training or examinations. By staying on top of these renewals, superyacht crew members can navigate their careers smoothly and continue to provide exceptional service on board these luxurious vessels while staying compliant with regulations.