Embarking on a career in the maritime industry often involves obtaining a Certificate of Competency (CoC) from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). This process is a critical step for professionals seeking to advance their roles on vessels. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the key stages of the MCA COC process, from the Notice of Eligibility to the Oral Preparation Exam and finally, the application for your coveted Certificate of Competence.
1. Understanding the Notice of Eligibility
Before delving into the MCA COC process, aspiring candidates must submit a Notice of Eligibility (NOE). This initial step involves providing the MCA with essential information about your sea service, qualifications, and intended career path . The NOE acts as a formal declaration of your readiness to undergo the certification process.
Tips for a Smooth NOE Submission:
- Keep accurate records of your sea service, ensuring they align with MCA requirements.
Find more on this in our Training Record Book article - Clearly articulate your qualifications, including relevant training and certifications.
- Provide all necessary documentation promptly to avoid delays in the processing of your NOE.
2. Preparing for the Oral Examination: Charting Your Course to Success
Once your Notice of Eligibility is accepted, the next milestone in the MCA COC process is the Oral Preparation Examination. This comprehensive assessment evaluates your theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and decision-making capabilities. It’s a crucial step in demonstrating your competence and readiness for an advanced maritime role.
We recommend that you look into training programs and reading materials or learning tools to help you prepare for your oral examination. You can find trainers like The Bridge Deck, Shiptalk or Glasgow Maritime Academy who specialize in oral prep examination preparation. You can also invest in books like Mcniels Seamanship Examiner Officer of the watch Pocket book, to help you prepare for your oral exam and use learning tools like Flip Cards to help you memorise and understand key aspects of the topics covered in the oral exam.
Key Preparation Strategies:
- Study the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the MCA’s examination syllabus, covering topics such as navigation, safety, and vessel
operations. - Simulated Exercises: Engage in simulated exercises to hone your decision-making skills and practice real-life scenarios. Have a look at
our Learning Tools available. - Review Relevant Regulations: Stay updated on maritime regulations and industry best practices.
- Mock Interviews: Conduct mock oral interviews to simulate the exam environment and receive constructive feedback.
3. The MCA Certificate of Competency (CoC) Application Process: Hoisting the Flag of Certification
With successful completion of the Oral Preparation Examination, you’re now ready to apply for your Certificate of Competence. This involves submitting a comprehensive application, supported by the necessary documentation, including your NOE, sea service records, and examination results.
Key Preparation Strategies:
- Study the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the MCA’s examination syllabus, covering topics such as navigation, safety, and vessel
operations. - Simulated Exercises: Engage in simulated exercises to hone your decision-making skills and practice real-life scenarios. Have a look at
our Learning Tools available. - Review Relevant Regulations: Stay updated on maritime regulations and industry best practices.
- Mock Interviews: Conduct mock oral interviews to simulate the exam environment and receive constructive feedback.
4. The Home Stretch: Awaiting Your Certification
After submitting your application, the MCA will review your documents, qualifications, and examination results. Once satisfied with your eligibility, they will issue your Certificate of Competence, officially recognizing your ability to undertake specific maritime roles.
Patiently Awaiting Certification:
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of updates from the MCA regarding the status of your application.
- Professional Development: Use the waiting period to engage in continuous professional development to enhance your skills and
knowledge.
Conclusion: Smooth Sailing Towards Certification
The MCA COC process is a journey that demands preparation, diligence, and a commitment to excellence. By understanding each stage – from the Notice of Eligibility to the Oral Preparation Exam and the final application for your Certificate of Competence – you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the seas of certification, propelling your maritime career to new horizons. Good luck on your voyage to achieving MCA certification!
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.
Embarking on a maritime career involves continuous learning and skill development, and a Training Record Book (TRB) is your compass in this professional journey. In this article, we will explore what a Training Record Book is, how to keep it up to date, and why it holds paramount importance in the maritime industry.
Understanding the Training Record Book: Your Nautical Logbook
A Training Record Book is essentially a personalized logbook that serves as a documented record of an individual’s training and professional development in the maritime field. It encompasses a wide range of activities, from onboard training and sea service to shore-based courses and practical assessments.
Components of a Training Record Book: Navigating the Entries
Sea Service Records: Log your time at sea, detailing the type of vessel, position held, and any specific duties or operations undertaken during each period
Onboard Training: Record any onboard training programs or familiarization sessions, including safety drills, equipment operation, and emergency procedures.
Shore-Based Courses: Document your participation in relevant courses, workshops, and seminars, providing evidence of continuous learning and skill enhancement.
Practical Assessments: Note any practical assessments or examinations undertaken, showcasing your ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Keeping Your TRB Up to Date: Navigational Tips
Regular Updates: Commit to updating your Training Record Book regularly. Set aside time at the end of each training session or sea service period to ensure accurate and timely entries.
Accuracy Matters: Precision is crucial. Provide specific details about your experiences, emphasizing the skills acquired and tasks performed during each training or sea service period.
Verification and Signatures: Seek verification and signatures from supervisors or mentors who can attest to the accuracy of your entries. This adds credibility to your training achievements.
The Importance of a Shipshape Training Record Book: Navigating Career Advancement
Career Progression: A well-maintained Training Record Book is a testament to your commitment to professional development. It serves as a valuable tool when seeking promotions or applying for advanced certifications.
Regulatory Compliance: In the maritime industry, regulatory bodies often require proof of training and competence. Your Training Record Book acts as a comprehensive portfolio that aligns with industry standards and regulations.
Personal Development: Beyond regulatory requirements, a TRB helps you track your personal growth and skill acquisition. It allows you to identify areas for improvement and set goals for continuous professional development.
Embracing the Journey: Your TRB as a Lifelong Companion
Your Training Record Book is more than just a mandatory document; it’s a companion in your maritime journey. Embrace the process of keeping it up to date, recognizing that each entry is a stepping stone toward your career goals and personal growth.
Setting Sail with a Well-Kept Log
In the maritime world, where proficiency and safety are paramount, a Training Record Book is your navigational chart. By understanding its significance, diligently updating its pages, and appreciating the role it plays in your career, you are not just keeping a log; you are navigating the seas of professional excellence. May your Training Record Book be a testament to your journey and a guiding light toward future success on the high seas.
In one of our previous articles, Navigating yacht crew seasons we touched the surface of the different yachting seasons around the world. As the Mediterranean season approaches this year, crew members find themselves gearing up for an exhilarating and demanding period. To ensure a smooth sailing experience, it is crucial for crew members to invest time and effort in pre-season preparations. Also read our article on the Seamans discharge book which holds some vital information for crew who are joining the med season this year.
One of the key aspects of this preparation involves updating certifications and honing essential skills that contribute to the success of a voyage. In this article, we will explore the importance of staying current with certifications and utilizing the pre-season period to enhance and refresh skills.
Certification Check:
Before embarking on the Mediterranean season, it is imperative for the superyacht crew to conduct a thorough check of their certifications. Ensure that all relevant documents, including STCW, are up to date. This not only guarantees compliance with international maritime regulations but also demonstrates a commitment to safety and professionalism.
Refresh and Elevate Skills:
The downtime before the commencement of the Mediterranean season provides an excellent opportunity for crew members to focus on skill enhancement. Whether it be refreshing culinary and hospitality abilities, investing time in training can make a significant difference in the quality of service provided on board. Having a diverse set of skills also sets you apart in the ever competitive job market.
In addition to the essential certifications and skills, crew members gearing up for the Mediterranean season can further distinguish themselves by exploring specialized courses. Consider enrolling in programs such as silver service or wine appreciation classes to refine your hospitality skills, adding an extra layer of sophistication to the guest experience.
Alternatively, leverage e-learning platforms like PCCP (Professional Yacht Crew Course) to build theoretical knowledge encompassing all operations of a yacht. These comprehensive courses cover aspects ranging from safety protocols to onboard service, providing crew members with a well-rounded understanding of their roles.
Moreover, crew members can delve into maritime literature, exploring books on COLREGS conventions or ECDIS systems (Electronic Chart Display and Information System) to deepen their understanding of crucial maritime regulations and navigation technology.
This multifaceted approach ensures that crew members not only meet the necessary safety and service standards but also excel in delivering an exceptional superyacht experience.
Mental Health and Wellness:
Recognizing the demanding nature of the superyacht industry, crew members should prioritize not only physical health but also mental well-being as they gear up for the Mediterranean season. Beyond physical fitness and rest, it’s essential to address stress management and mental resilience. Crew members can proactively explore coping mechanisms by enrolling in mental health awareness E-learning courses. These courses provide valuable insights into stress reduction, emotional well-being, and coping strategies tailored to the unique challenges of life at sea. By fostering a culture of mental health awareness and equipping oneself with effective coping mechanisms, crew members can approach the upcoming season with a resilient mindset, enhancing both personal and professional aspects of their lives onboard.
Conclusion
As the Mediterranean superyacht season approaches, proactive preparation is the key to success for crew members. Ensuring that certifications are up to date and utilizing the pre-season period to refresh and elevate skills will not only contribute to the safety and professionalism of the crew but also enhance the overall experience for guests on board. By investing time in training and fostering a positive team dynamic, superyacht crew can embark on the upcoming season with confidence and readiness.
In the realm of maritime employment, the Seaman’s Discharge Book stands as a crucial document for seafarers worldwide. Serving as a record of a seafarer’s career, this booklet plays a pivotal role in facilitating international travel and ensuring compliance with regulations. In recent times, there has been a notable development regarding its necessity for non-EU residents entering Mallorca. In this article, we explore the purpose of the Seaman’s Discharge Book and delve into the new regulations surrounding its presentation for non-EU residents in Mallorca.
Purpose of the Seaman’s Discharge Book
The Seaman’s Discharge Book, often simply referred to as the Discharge Book or Seaman’s Book, is an official document issued to maritime professionals as evidence of their sea service. It acts as a seafarer’s personal record, documenting details of their employment, such as the vessels they have served on, the nature of their work, and the duration of their service. Essentially, it serves as a seafarer’s professional logbook.
Key Information in the Discharge Book:
- Personal Details: The book includes personal information such as the seafarer’s name, date of birth, nationality, and other identifying details.
- Sea Service Records: Each page of the Discharge Book is dedicated to a specific voyage or period of employment. It includes
information about the vessel, the type of work performed, and the duration of the service. - Certificates and Endorsements: Seafarers often use the Discharge Book to record their qualifications, certifications, and endorsements
acquired throughout their career.
Importance of the Seaman’s Discharge Book
- Proof of Experience: The Discharge Book serves as tangible proof of a seafarer’s experience and skills, which is crucial for securing
employment in the maritime industry. - International Travel: Many countries require seafarers to present their Discharge Book when entering or departing. It serves as proof
of seafarer status and may be a prerequisite for obtaining visas. - Verification of Certifications: The book includes information on the seafarer’s qualifications and endorsements, facilitating easy
verification by maritime authorities and potential employers.
New Regulation in Mallorca
In recent times, Mallorca has implemented a new regulation affecting non-EU residents entering the region. According to this regulation, all non-EU seafarers are now required to present their Seaman’s Discharge Book as proof of their seafarer status. Non-EU yacht crew members must take note of a crucial update in the regulatory landscape: employment contracts are no longer accepted as standalone evidence of seafarer status when entering Mallorca.
Implications for Non-EU Seafarers
For non-EU seafarers, this regulation means that the Seaman’s Discharge Book is now a mandatory document for all crew regardless of the vessel’s flag. Failure to present this booklet may lead to complications at immigration checkpoints and your remaining Schengen days will be affected. Therefore, it is imperative for non-EU seafarers planning to visit Mallorca to ensure that their Discharge Book is up-to-date and contains accurate information about their sea service.
Conclusion
The Seaman’s Discharge Book holds undeniable significance in the maritime industry, serving as a comprehensive record of a seafarer’s career. Its importance extends beyond professional documentation, as it plays a vital role in international travel and compliance with regulations. With the recent regulation in Mallorca mandating the presentation of the Discharge Book for non-EU residents, seafarers must remain vigilant about the currency and accuracy of this essential document to ensure seamless entry into the region.
The beginning of 2024 brings with it a sense of anticipation for what lies ahead in the dynamic world of superyacht crewing. Academy by Ephemeris is not a crew recruitment portal, but we are invested in helping crew create the superyacht career of their dreams. In this article we lay out some of the past year’s insights and look into future trends that are essential for those seeking success in this competitive industry.
Review of 2023 and Industry Insights:
In the retrospective lens, YPI Crew’s President, Laurence Lewis, shared compelling recruitment statistics for 2023. Despite challenges in the job market, nearly 900 crew members found placements, a noteworthy achievement. The industry saw a decline in yacht sales, with 151 fewer sold between 2022 and 2023, as reported by Boat International media. Visualizing crew placements through a chart provides a glimpse into vessel types and sizes, offering valuable insights for navigating 2024.
Lewis, Laurence. (2024, January 24). Yacht Crew Recruitment Statistics for 2023 [LinkedIn Post].
Outlook for 2024:
Turning our gaze toward the future, Dockwalk’s January 2024 issue sheds light on the 2024 Global Order Book. Although there’s a slight decrease in the number of builds, the combined meter of builds under construction only dropped by 1.2%. While fewer builds may be in progress, the substantial size of vessels under construction still indicates a demand for a significant number of crew members.
Graphs extracted from the Dockwalk report reveal critical statistics. The current vessels in operation versus crew estimates suggest 94,201 potential jobs at the high crew level.
Montigneaux, Raphael and Marilyn Mower. (2024) . “Steady as She Goes.” Dockwalk, January 2024 Issue, 21-28. https://secure.viewer.zmags.com/publication/290c53e3#/290c53e3/27
Additionally, projects ordered or in build hint at 11,890 potential jobs when these vessels hit the waters. Despite the competitive job market, the superyacht industry remains lucrative.
Montigneaux, Raphael and Marilyn Mower. (2024) . “Steady as She Goes.” Dockwalk, January 2024 Issue, 21-28. https://secure.viewer.zmags.com/publication/290c53e3#/290c53e3/27
So what will 2024 bring?
We can see from the numbers the industry is putting out, we might be seeing more job openings this year, but this does not mean we can relax. The superyacht crew members that will be successful in this year are the ones who place emphasis on investing in their training and expanding their knowledge base to become all round professional and skilled members of the industry.
Challenges and Opportunities:
Navigating the job market unveils its competitive nature. A quick search on a superyacht jobs board highlights the challenge, 82 pages of deckhands available in the 1 – 2 years of experience rage which results in over 2000 candidates looking for the same job as you are.
The underlying issue in the superyacht crew realm, is the demand for quality, professional, and well-trained crew members capable of handling the technicalities of their roles and meet the service expectation required for these luxurious complex vessels.
This is where the opportunity lies for crew members who are dedicated to the success of their superyacht careers.
What can I do to cease the opportunity and stand out?
Determine Your Career Goals:
Chart a clear path for your career, and use the career guides laid out for Deck, Engineering, and Interior departments to determine your long-term goals. This will keep you focused and determined. A captain or owner can also see then that you have long term goals in mind, and you are serious about your career and future prospects. A captain or owner will be more inclined to hire you if they can see that you are focused, determined and decisive.
Train, Train, Train
It is imperative to undergo the proper training so that you can be equipped with the knowledge you need to fulfill your job role. Crew members who attend professional training are taught the necessary skills in a very practical way which ensures that you are ready to handle real life situations onboard. This will help you to fulfill the quality crew need.
Upskill and diversify!
Your personal improvement and additional skills other than the mandatory also speak to the fact that you are determined to go out of your way not just to do what you must but that you are willing to go the extra mile to become a superyacht professional. Diversification of your knowledge base to other departments and job roles also helps you become an all-round candidate which is an asset to any team.
If you’re a deck hand take a Food safety course or join a program like the Progressive crew Career program so at the very least, you can expand your knowledge of other departments. Not because you must, but because you strive to be an asset to any team you join.
Academy by Ephemeris: Your Gateway to Success:
Recognizing the need for quality crew, Academy by Ephemeris offers a comprehensive superyacht career guidance platform. This platform equips aspiring crew members with resources for career goal mapping, professional training, and upskilling. Whether you seek information on career steps, training providers, or e-learning courses, Academy by Ephemeris provides a one-stop solution.
Conclusion
As we embark on 2024, the superyacht industry promises more job openings, but success hinges on proactive measures. Invest in training, expand your knowledge base, and consider Academy by Ephemeris as your ally in achieving professional excellence. By staying ahead of the curve, you position yourself as a valuable asset in this competitive and evolving industry.
As the maritime world cycles through its rhythmic yachting seasons, the ebb and flow of yacht crew activity paints a dynamic picture of life aboard these luxurious vessels. Academy by Ephemeris, a yacht crew training platform, connecting students and training providers all over the world, recognizes the crucial junctures between the bustling seasons and the vital importance of skill enhancement and career development for crew members during the interim periods.
The Pulse of Yachting Seasons: Mediterranean and Caribbean
Traditionally, the yachting calendar is marked by two prominent seasons that chart the course of most vessels’ voyages. During the balmy summer months, a multitude of yachts grace the serene waters of the Mediterranean, weaving through picturesque coastlines and coveted destinations. As winter unfurls its grip, the yachting stage migrates to the vibrant Caribbean and the inviting expanses of the United States.
Understanding this rhythm becomes a keystone in crew planning, as both seasons find yachts fully staffed, cruising with guests on board. This synchronization highlights that the optimal times for job hunting coincide with the impending launch of these yachting epochs. Whileopportunities persist year-round, the pre-season build-up emerges as the pinnacle period for recruitment.
Mediterranean Odyssey: May to October
The Mediterranean season, its zenith enveloping the summer solstice, beckons yachts to the turquoise depths of the Mediterranean Sea. As temperatures soar, the region transforms into a yachting haven, where guests explore exquisite coastlines and secluded bays. With Italy, South of France, Greece, Croatia, and Spain as favored routes, the Mediterranean season exudes an air of opulent indulgence. For burgeoning crew members, the months of February to May provide an opportune window to secure positions on superyachts. This interval aligns with yacht preparations and recruitment drives to fortify their ranks with capable crew. The renowned yachting hubs of Antibes (France) and Palma de Mallorca (Spain) become epicenters of activity, connecting eager job seekers with influential agents.
Caribbean Serenity: November to February
Simultaneously, as winter wraps its arms around the northern hemisphere, the Caribbean ushers in its yachting season. Sun-drenched late November announces the end of the hurricane season, making way for yachts and their crews to embrace the idyllic surroundings of Antigua, St. Martin, and Fort Lauderdale (USA). During this interval, a B1 visa becomes a sought-after asset for prospective crew members due to yachts traversing the United States during their Caribbean journeys.
The window from October to December offers prime prospects for aspiring yacht crew to join these vessels as they prepare for the upcoming cruising season. Academy by Ephemeris underscores the significance of maintaining an up-to-date CV and consistent communication with recruiters. These crucial actions significantly enhance one’s chances of embarking on a journey of luxury and maritime prowess.
Navigating the Interim: The Off-Season
While some yachts migrate with the seasons, others choose to stay put, engaging in maintenance and shipyard activities throughout the year. This period witnesses a reduction in guest occupancy and crew numbers. Despite the relatively quieter atmosphere, recruitment remains active, albeit at a slightly diminished scale compared to the preceding peak seasons.
Notably, the engineering departments remain particularly active during the off-season, often seeking additional support for shipyard duties. Academy by Ephemeris emphasizes the importance of staying engaged with recruitment specialists, ensuring crew members are primed for these specialized roles and responsibilities.
Embarking on a journey into the world of yacht crewing demands strategic planning and informed decision-making. Academy by Ephemeris emphasizes a comprehensive approach, advocating thorough exploration of the yachting industry, tailored training course selection, books and tools. Armed with a well-considered strategy, aspiring yacht crew members can navigate the dynamic currents of the industry, capitalizing on opportunities and steering their careers toward success.
Academy by Ephemeris serves as a bridge that seamlessly connects students with training providers, offering courses specifically tailored to advance their careers or maintain regulatory compliance.
Recognizing that crew members often book courses during their off days or unconventional hours, the platform is accessible 24/7, irrespective of time zones. Furthermore, it enhances the experience by facilitating secure, convenient, and timely payments through its trusted gateway, ensuring that funds reach the service providers immediately upon booking.
