STCW Training Courses UK

Essential safety training for seafarers

Our expert team of instructors deliver STCW training on basic firefighting, elementary first aid, personal survival techniques, and personal safety and social responsibility. This essential training ensures seafarers can respond appropriately to emergency situations. This essential training ensures seafarers can respond appropriately to emergency situations. Check our STCW training courses list below.

STCW Maritime Training

We offer a comprehensive range of all-inclusive STCW safety training courses at our Cowes base.

Participants of the UKSA's STCW Safety Training course standing in uniform receiving maritime safety instruction.

STCW – know the basics

STCW refers to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers. This convention sets out the minimum qualification standards required of captains, officers, and watch personnel on seagoing merchant ships and large yachts. At UKSA we offer the Basic Safety Training plus additional modules that can be completed separately.

As part of the UKSA's maritime safety training, an instructor advises a trainee how to carry out life-saving first aid on a resuscitation manikin.

STCW Advanced Training

Maritime professionals may be required to complete more advanced medical, rescue and firefighting courses for some employment on board vessels. This potentially applies to security officers, masters, mates, engineering officers or other positions depending on the ship.

Our expert team of instructors equip our professional students with the skills and qualifications required to reach the highest levels of career development. We are proud to be one of the world’s top providers of MCA certificates, offering a full range of MCA and STCW qualifications.

sea survival training in swimming pool

Our campus

Our unique waterside location in Cowes offers you the convenience of accommodation, food, learning and networking all in one place. Single room upgrades are available to professional students at an additional cost (please speak to our team about upgrading your stay with us).

Enjoy access to our indoor pool, gym, fitness classes/activities and on-site bar providing plenty of opportunities to wind-down after studying. In addition, we are conveniently located within walking distance of Cowes town centre, where there are plenty of shops, restaurants and bars.

STCW Safety Training Courses FAQs

How much does an STCW course cost?

Depending on the location, length, and training provider, the cost of an STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) course can change. The cost of STCW courses typically ranges from a few hundred to a thousand pounds, depending on the particular prerequisites and course components.

Can I get my STCW online?

No, you cannot complete your STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) online. While some training companies may offer theoretical components of the course online, the practical aspects require in-person training. This is because STCW courses involve hands-on training, such as firefighting exercises, sea survival techniques, and other essential maritime skills that cannot be adequately learned through online instruction alone.

How long is an STCW course?

Depending on the particular requirements and training components, an STCW course’s time may change. Basic STCW courses, such the STCW Basic Safety Training (BST), often last between one and two weeks. Nonetheless, the duration of more advanced or specialised STCW courses may differ.

Do I need STCW to work on a cruise ship?

Yes, STCW certification is generally required for individuals seeking employment on commercial vessels, including cruise ships. The specific STCW requirements may vary depending on the role and responsibilities of the individual onboard, but basic STCW certification is typically a prerequisite for most positions.

How do I get an STCW certificate?

People normally need to finish an authorised STCW training course from an accredited training provider in order to receive an STCW certificate. This course covers themes including firefighting, personal survival skills, first aid, and maritime security. It often consists of both theoretical instruction and practical training.

Is STCW really needed for every seafarer?

Yes, STCW certification is generally required for most seafaring roles on commercial vessels, regardless of rank or position. The STCW Convention sets minimum training and certification standards for seafarers worldwide to ensure competency, safety, and proficiency at sea.

Is basic training the same as STCW?

The more comprehensive STCW requirements are comprised of more than just basic training courses like the STCW Basic Safety Training (BST). While basic training covers the fundamental safety and survival skills required by STCW, the word “STCW” refers to a more extensive set of requirements for watchkeeping, certification, and training for seafarers.