yachtmaster to master 200

Master 200 GT: the gateway between the Yachtmaster and the Captain 200

Yachtmaster holders can, by using the Master 200 GT oral exam gateway, claim a visa recognition from France giving them the same prerogatives as a Captain 200 (french degree). 

The Yachtmaster is a British certificate, issued by the Royal Association Yachting (RYA).

The United Kingdom being a signatory to the STCW Convention, it can issue the title of Yachtmaster STCW Endorsed. In theory, if the Yachtmaster title is “STCW Endorsed”, the skipper will be able to obtain the benefit of the STCW titles recognition between signatory states of the STCW Convention, subject to obtaining a recognition visa or to the establishment of a bilateral recognition agreement between countries.

However, France (signatory of the STCW convention) does not recognize the “STCW Endorsed” Yachtmaster as such and therefore does not issue any visa recognition. Skippers who have it are, therefore, not allowed to sail on a boat waving the French flag. This can be a source of frustration for skippers who are denied employment opportunities.

To allow Yachtmaster holders to operate on French boats, they need to obtain a new certificate: the MCA Master 200 GT; which is recognized by France and can be subject to a visa recognition.

With a Yachtmaster, the Master 200 GT certificate is easily obtainable.

The Master 200 GT is the bridge between the Yachtmaster and the Captain 200 . Without a Master GT MCA, it is impossible to get a visa recognition from France.

1. What is the MCA Master 200 GT?

The Master 200 GT is an English STCW certificate recognized by France through the issuance of a visa recognition.

The MCA Master 200 GT is very similar to the Yachtmaster Offshore. Therefore, it can be used by skippers on vessels up to 200 GT or by watchkeeping officers on vessels up to 500 GT.

The Master 200 GT can be “Limited”, allowing use up to 150 Nm offshore, or “Unlimited” for use without distance limits.

Skippers must complete their diploma with a GMDSS certificate . This can be either a GMDSS ROC (Restricted Operator Certificate) which limits the activity in GMDSS Zone A1, or a GMDSS GOC (General Operator Certificate) which allows an unlimited use.

A number of prerequisites are required from the seaman who wishes to obtain this gateway, as follows.

2. Obtaining the complementary MCA Master 200 GT exam 

A. prerequisites to obtain this gateway.

First of all, to be able to use this bridge between the Yachtmaster and the Master 200 GT, some prerequisites are necessary:

• Be over 18 years old
• To have completed 6 months of sea service with a RYA Yachtmaster, or IYT Master of Yacht limited
• To hold an offshore RYA Yachtmaster or a commercially endorsed IYT Master of Yacht limited
• Have a valid ENG1 medical certificate
• Individual Survival Techniques (IST)
• Basic firefighting training
• Basic first aid (EM 1)
• Life safety and social responsibilities
• Operator certification: GMDSS ROC or GOC
• Have the HELM (Human Element, Leadership & Management) operational certificate
• Finally, pass the oral exam (see below for the content of the oral exam) of the MCA Master 200 GT. There is no MCA or RYA preparation course for the Master 200 oral exam. The program for the oral is: navigation, IRPCS, meteorology, cartography, business and MarPol law, Bridge procedures, etc.

In addition, candidates must complete a Notice of Eligibility (NoE) and send it to MCA. It is recommended that you allow at least 28 days before your file is processed. Oral examinations are held at the MCA offices.

B. Content of the Master 200 GT oral exam:

More specifically, and to put all the chances on your side, here is a summary of the content of the MCA Master 200 GT exam.

1. Plan and execute a passage (chart and navigation instructions, light lists, tide tables, radio warnings)

• Be familiar with the IMHA A and B buoyage system
• Identify and analyze the limitations and sources of error of electronic charts and navigation systems
• Know how to use Radar and ARPA (practical use, mode of operation, limitations and sources of error, including basic radar plotting techniques)
• Know the application of variation and deviation to convert true heading to compass heading, and understand the basic causes of variation and deviation
• Locate the ship’s position on the chart based on magnetic bearings and/or radar ranges, position by latitude and longitude
• Find the magnetic heading to steer and the ETA for a given destination given the starting position and recording speed
• Identify transits and chart trim marks to plan a safe approach to a port or anchorage
• State and explain the meaning of common chart symbols and abbreviations
• Know how to obtain and use weekly Notices to Mariners to correct charts
• Research high and low water times and predict heights and/or intermediate times for standard and secondary ports
• Find and predict tidal range and rate from charted tidal reference points, and tidal current atlases

2. Meteorology

• Know the sources of weather information
• Interprete weather forecasts, including knowledge of the characteristics of various weather conditions
• Use and interpret information obtained from on-board weather indications

3. Maintain a safe navigation watch

• Demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the principles of marine navigation monitoring, including anchor monitoring; such as STCW Code A-VIII and ICS Bridge Procedures Guide
• Understand the use of bridge equipment including echo sounder and Navtex
• Be familiar with steering control systems, including autopilot and operation from manual to automatic control and vice versa
• Maintain navigation records
• Know the circumstances under which the captain should be called to the bridge
• Know the principles of handing over and relieving the bridge watch

4. International regulations for preventing collisions at sea (ColRegs)

• Demonstrate a thorough knowledge of ColRegs including the requirements: to proceed at a safe speed, keep an eye out for and recognize lights and shapes, and fog signals for all classes of vessels, recognize audible maneuvering signals and light signals. Recognize a developing collision situation by compass, radar or visual reference
• State the measures to be taken during the day and at night to avoid collisions. Describe precautions to be taken when navigating in or near areas of reduced visibility; evaluate the probability of a radar-only collision of a vessel and the steps to be taken to avoid a collision. Describe the requirements for navigating in or near traffic separation schemes. Describe the need to navigate in narrow channels
• Respond to emergencies, operational safety and pollution control

5. Distress signals and communication

• State the conditions under which distress signals may be used; understand the different types of distress signals, actions to be taken upon receipt, and obligations to assist
• Know the proper use of pyrotechnics, EPIRBS and SARTS, including the appropriate circumstances for their use
• Understand proper distress communication procedures, including the terms Mayday, PanPan and Safety messages
• Emergency communication with GMDSS regulations

6. Vessel manoeuvres

• Know the steps to prepare for departure, tasks before going to sea, docking, entering a dock, berthing alongside docks, piers or other vessels; stowing to buoys
• Know how to use and maintain mooring lines and associated equipment
• Know how to use the rudder, steer the ship, know the effects of propellers on the ship’s direction, the effects of wind and current, stopping, going astern and turning short
• Act in the event of a failure of the deck, telegraph or steering gear control, including emergency steering arrangements
• Know anchoring procedures
• Understand precautions to be taken when using winches and windlasses
• Understand the precautions to be taken when mooring and unmooring

7. Responses to emergencies

Be able to respond to emergencies by adapting the posture according to the different scenarios:

• Initial actions as follows: man overboard, collision, grounding, flooding or major mechanical damage, initial damage assessment and control, marine environmental protection
• Fire prevention, use and maintenance of firefighting apparatus, shutdown and isolation of facilities and equipment, evacuation and breathing apparatus, fire and safety plans
• Operation and maintenance of rescue apparatus and equipment, including immersion suits and thermal protection aids, pyrotechnics, and ammunition launching devices
• Launching of liferafts and rescue boats; proper rigging of liferaft hydrostatic release units
• Basic principles of survival

8. Pollution Prevention Requirements

• Know good pollution prevention practices in ports and at sea, as well as measures to be taken to prevent pollution during bunkering
• Know how to respond to pollution incidents in ports and at sea
• Know the basics of waste management and disposal of waste and oil residues

9. Vessel Navigability

• Understand the fundamentals of watertight integrity and closing all openings, including hatches, access hatches and watertight doors
• Understand the difference between good stability and poor stability, and recognize the warning signs of the latter
• Increasing and decreasing weights
• Low freeboard
• Clogged deck clearances and scuppers
• Loose tanks
• Preparing for weather, ensuring and maintaining watertightness

10. Business and Law

• Understand the content and application of the applicable codes, namely the “Small Vessel Commercial Code 1” and the Large Commercial Yacht Code (LY3) 2
• Be familiar with the Code of Safe Work Practices for Merchant Mariners 3, its content and practical application
• Know the requirements for drills and exercises, including fire, emergency and abandon ship drills
• Understand the legal requirement to insure a seaworthy vessel
• Know the basics of salvage laws
• Understand the requirements for safe manning, hours of work and watchkeeping
• Identify the circumstances under which a vessel requires a crew agreement

3. Ask for a visa recognition to work in France

Once the Master 200 GT is obtained, the holder can apply for a visa recognition from the competent authority.  

The visa recognition attests to the seaman’s competences to perform functions equivalent to his or her certificate in foreign countries.

A. How to apply for a visa recognition?

To obtain a visa recognition, you must put together a file with the following documents:

• The CERFA for visa application , duly completed and signed,
• A copy of your valid seaman’s certificates, approved by the administration of the country of issue (here the Master 200 GT), with the STCW reference of the title,
• A medical check-up, issued within the last 2 years by a doctor authorized by the country of issue of the certificate or by a French seamen’s doctor,
• An identity photo.

B. To whom should the application for a visa recognition be addressed?

The request for a visa recognition must be made by the seaman or the owner of the ship under the French flag on which the sailor, holder of the certificate concerned, is embarked.

This request should be sent to the “employment – maritime training” department of the DIRM (Direction InterRégionale de la Mer) of a DDTM (Direction Départementale des Territoires de la Mer) of the maritime coastline on which the vessel is operating (DIRM-Mediterranean, for example, if the vessel on which the sailor is embarked is operated in one of the departments of the Mediterranean coastline).

C. Working in France with a visa recognition

Once the application has been validated and the visa recognition obtained, the French authorities certify that the foreign title held by the seaman corresponds to an equivalent level of function in French regulations.

By issuing this visa, France authorizes the holder to work under the French flag for a limited period of 5 years. If the recognized title expires earlier, the visa recognition will also expire.

The renewal of the visa recognition must be explicitly requested.

Note 1: Obtaining a visa recognition does not entitle the holder to the issuance of the equivalent French title and the related rights under French law. (e.g.: obligation to hold a French title for access to higher education).

Note 2: Obtaining a visa recognition is not sufficient for a foreign sailor to be able to command a French vessel. For this specific function, the foreign sailor must also be evaluated by a national jury. This national jury, presided over by the DIRM in its “commercial” formation, will examine the officer’s knowledge of the French language and national maritime regulations.

In summary, to work in France or under the French flag, the holder of a Yachtmaster STCW Endorsed must:

✅ Obtain the Master 200 GT by validating the Master 200 GT oral exam ✅ Once the Master 200 GT is obtained, apply for a visa recognition from the competent authority. ✅ When the visa recognition is issued to the seaman, he can then practice for 5 years in France.

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RYA Yachtmaster Offshore / Yachtmaster Coastal / Master of Yachts 200 Course 300

MPT is the most complete full service private maritime school in the country and has been training mariners since 1983. Our Fort Lauderdale based campuses host over 45,000 square feet of classrooms, deck and engineering training labs, the Ship's Store, and student service facilities.

Preparing for RYA Yachtmaster Offshore / Yachtmaster Coastal / Master...

Course description.

  Yachtmaster Certificate of Competency

The Yachtmaster Qualification is the pinnacle of the RYA (Royal Yachting Association) Training and Certification System. It is widely recognized throughout the world as a prestigious accomplishment.

 Holding this credential can:

- Improve your resume for any deck department position on yachts - Serve as prerequisite training for an MCA OOW 3000 GT CoC - Professional Development in your yachting career  - Serve as your Certificate of Competence (CoC) for operators of yachts up to 200 tons

The Yachtmaster Course should be undertaken by crew aspiring to advance to the MCA OOW level up to 3000 tons and by those who are advancing to the command level for Master of Yachts up to 200 tons.

  2 Routes Available – Same Course:

Yachtmaster Coastal Yachtmaster Offshore

Yachting professional candidates are encouraged to start their training and professional development as early in their career as possible. Many will take their STCW Basic Safety Training Program (#140) and then when they qualify, it is recommended to obtain the Yachtmaster Coastal CoC. Candidates wishing to upgrade to the offshore route later can simply examine, without additional required training.

Whether you qualify for the Yachtmaster Coastal or Offshore, the training is the same. The only difference is your experience and practical skill level. You will be examined towards whichever level you qualify for.

The MPT Yachtmaster Coastal and Offshore Course (#300) is taught on a Motor Yacht and the practical training and examination are towards a Motor Certificate of Competence. (If you are applying for a Sail Endorsement, this course will not satisfy your practical training and exam requirements). All sea time must be on a power boat and not on a sail boat under power. The Theory, SRC, PPR, and Basic Training courses are the same for both schemes.

The MPT Yachtmaster advanced level certification is available in a 2 week + exam program combining shore-based theory and practical hands-on techniques for a Motor Vessel and the RYA Practical Examination. The first week of class is in the classroom (theory) and the second week is Practical, out on the boat. In addition, there will be class on Saturday of the first week so please plan accordingly.

YACHTMASTER COASTAL & OFFSHORE Subjects Include:

One week (40 hours) of comprehensive shore-based theory module with written assessment papers including navigation, tidal calculations, international and inland rules of the road, coastal pilotage, meteorology, anchoring and mooring, docking and undocking, buoyage systems, safety, voyage and passage planning, general ship knowledge and seamanship.  A theory examination will be conducted after the completion of the 40-hour theory portion of the program.

One week of Yachtmaster Offshore/Coastal practical training is conducted on board one of MPT’s Yachts. These yachts are up to 48’ and are twin screw motor yachts. This part of the instruction covers seamanship skills such as nautical terms, tides, marlinespike seamanship, anchor work, boat handling, docking, general yachting skills, basic weather, navigation and passage planning. This course will be a preparation course for your final Yachtmaster Coastal/Offshore Examination. The practical portion of the course will be conducted during daytime, evening and occasionally may include weekend hours.

The Yachtmaster Course #300 is an Advanced Review Course and it is assumed that candidates will have the prerequisite knowledge of the Basics of Navigation and recommended to the level of RYA Day Skipper, and the very least, the level of the Essential Navigation On-line course. To increase your likelihood of success, we recommend taking the online pre-course - ESSENTIAL NAVIGATION. Additionally, flash cards are available in the MPT Ship's Store for rules study in lights and shapes. Also, many Apps are available to assist in these subjects for pre-study. It is also strongly advised that you pick up your study material well in advance of the start of your course. Pre-study is essential for a successful outcome of this course. 

The RYA Yachtmaster course is accredited by the RYA and MCA and recognized for service as Captain or Mate (OOW) up to 200gt up to 150 miles from a safe haven, at the Offshore level or up to 60 miles from safe haven at the Coastal level. 

The Yachtmaster CoC meets the STCW A-V1/1 and section A V1/1-4 when combined with Basic Training Courses. Yachtmaster Offshore fulfills the prerequisite for MCA OOW 500 and 3000 GT and the MCA STCW A-II/2 Command Certificate for Master 200GT.

Sea Service Prerequisites (minimums): Note you must be able to provide proof of your sea service before undertaking the exam. This should be provided at least 2 weeks before the course when possible to allow our team to review it and ensure your eligibility for the course. Speak to your MPT Career Counselor or your instructor for assistance.

 Sea Service can be proven by submitting one or more of the following: 

• Log book (RYA or other acceptable)
• Sea Service Testimonial Letters from captains, owners or operators of vessels outlining vessel specifics, time underway, your capacity served onboard and the location of the service (tidal or non-tidal waters, etc).
• Sea Service Forms (calendar style - provided you can supply all of the additional information such as number of miles, etc.) Method 2 is preferred.

Yachtmaster Coastal: Motor - Option 1

Without RYA Coastal Skipper Practical certificate:

• 2 days as skipper on vessels of less than 24 meters

Note: No more than half of the required miles can be on vessels over 24 meters

Yachmaster Coastal: Motor – Option 2 A & B

  With RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Certificate:

Can be used to enter OOW 3000GT program and modules

A. Mariners with Coastal Skipper Practical Certificate and with more than half of required sea service on vessels less than 24 meters

• 20 days on board
• 2 days as skipper on vessel less than 24 meters

B. Mariners with Coastal Skipper Practical Certificate and with more than half of required sea service on vessels greater than 24 meters

• 30 days on board

Yachtmaster Offshore: Motor  

• 50 days sea time overall on motor vessels
• 5 days in the command position on the vessel (as Master)
• 2500 nautical miles logged with half transiting through tidal waters and half on a vessel of less than 24 meters that is not a tender.
• 5 passages over 60 nautical miles, including 2 overnight and 2 in command (as Master) of vessel.        

Yachtmaster Ocean:

• Obtain Yeachmaster Offshore
• Complete the RYA astro/ocean shorebased theory #306
• Ocean passage of 600 nautical miles or more as captain or mate
• Complete oral exam with RYA examiner successfully

For Commercial Endorsement:

In addition to the SRC and First Aid (must have been taken within 5 years) you will need to obtain an MCA Certificate of Medical Fitness (ENG-1) as well as the Personal Survival Training (4 Modules of STCW 210) and the online Professional Practices & Responsibilities (PPR) Certificate. If you are planning to work commercially, you should simply add the STCW Basic Training Program, which will include the approved Personal Survival and First Aid automatically and will also allow your Yachtmaster CoC to have the STCW endorsement as well. Most boats internationally require this of all crew working commercially. We also recommend the Security Awareness or Designated Security (VPDSD) Course if you are working commercially as well. These are all separate fees from the Yachtmaster Course however MPT offers Package discounts, speak to an MPT RYA Specialist for more information and assistance. There is also a fee candidates will pay to the RYA for the commercial endorsement.

Written & Practical Exam Information:

The written exams are administered at MPT at the end of the shore-based theory segment of your program. They include all of the topics covered in the course. All of the shore-based courses and experience criteria must be fulfilled before the RYA Examiner will conduct the practical assessment. The final exam will be conducted by an independent and unbiased RYA Yachtmaster examiner and takes the form of an extensive oral and practical examination on a motor yacht. Candidates who have taken MPT's Yachtmaster course may use one of the MPT vessels for the exam at no additional fee. The practical exam will take an additional one-two day and is scheduled when the examiner is available and generally immediately after the course, weather permitting.  Once your eligibility has been reviewed (sea time and prerequisites met), the schedule for the practical examination is predicated on several things:

1)The weather as this is a practical underway examination 2)The availability of the RYA Examiner (this is not an MPT employee)

Examinations may need to be scheduled for additional days which may not be consecutive to the dates of the course.

Exam Subjects:

We will review with you the knowledge-based subjects during your shore-based theory week and also fine tune your boat handling skills during your practical course, but you should be familiar with the following areas when you join the class and proficient by the exam date. (Note if you are not already well versed in these subjects when you arrive, you are strongly encouraged to take the Essential Navigation (online course) as there is not sufficient time to cover the basics in the 2-week program. Ask about #333) 

• Knowledge of the International and Inland Rules of the Road.
• Safety. The candidate will be expected to know what safety equipment should be carried on board a yacht.
• Boat Handling, Maneuvering, Docking: Yachtmaster Coastal students will be expected to answer questions & demonstrate ability in simple situations only. Yachtmaster Offshore candidates are expected to demonstrate ability in more complex situations and will also be expected to show a higher level of expertise.
• General seamanship, including maintenance.
• Responsibilities of the skipper
• Navigation, Basic Weather 
• Radio Communication & Signaling
• Command presence, management and direction of crew.
• Essential Navigation (online course)

Practical Exam Fees:

The RYA Examination Fee for the initial examination will be paid by MPT as part of your course tuition. Additional RYA fees are paid by candidate if a subsequent examination is needed.

 If at the end of your course you wish to postpone the practical exam date, you are permitted to return for exam and RYA exam fee paid by MPT, within one calendar year, space permitting.

Additional Recommended or Required Courses:

• Essentials of Navigation (Online Pre-Course) #333
• First Aid & CPR #143 or Take STCW Basic Safety Training #141, 142, 143, 144
• SRC VHF Radio License #303 Required (offered Online) or GMDSS GOC #404
• RYA PPR (Professional Practices & Responsibility) #335 ONLINE COURSE
• MCA Approved Engine Course #440
• USCG Radar Course #148 & ARPA Course #150 or MCA Nav/Radar/ARPA Course #402

If you have three years of yacht service, speak to a career counselor about continuing straight through your OOW or Chief Mate 3000 GT program.

Required Materials

RECOMMEND PRE-STUDY: Essential Navigation online, course #333, COLREGS Study Apps or flashcard, and course notes. AVAILABLE IN MPT SHIPS STORE or bring with you the following: Pencil (mechanical or #2) Paper Chart Eraser (We recommend white- like magic rub or Staedtler), Navigation Tools (parallel rules/Portland plotter/triangles – your choice), Dividers (we recommend two- one as divider and one as compass), Calculator (we recommend the TI-30x), Hand Bearing Compass - optional though recommended (We recommend Weems & Plath #2004). Pick up at MPT when you register or when you check-in: Yachtmaster Shore based Training Manuals & Charts (provided by MPT).

11 day class in Fort Lauderdale

RECOMMENDED PRE-STUDY: Available at MPT Ships Store Complete Course Training DVD Flashcards AVAILABLE IN MPT SHIPS STORE OR BRING WITH YOU: Pencil (mechanical or #2) Paper Chart Eraser (We recommend white - like magic rub or staedtler) Navigation Tools (parallel rules/Portland plotter/triangles - your choice) Dividers (we recommend two - one as divider and one as compass) Calculator (we recommend the TI-30x) Hand Bearing Compass (We recommend Weems & Plath #2004) PICK UP AT SCHOOL WHEN YOU REGISTER OR WHEN YOU CHECK-IN: Yachtmaster Shorebased Training Manuals & Charts (provided by MPT)

Course Photos

Testimonials

Not suggestions. Thanks for letting me be your student! Alejandro, Friday August 2015 RYA Yachtmaster Offshore / Yachtmaster Coastal / Master of Yachts 200

A bit more time would be nice! But Steve was an awesome instructor.Very easy to follow and very thorough. Arthur, Wednesday November 2013 RYA Yachtmaster Offshore / Yachtmaster Coastal / Master of Yachts 200

1915 South Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, +1-954-525-1014 | +1-888-839-5025 (Toll Free)

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JPMA & Hoylake Sailing School

(john percival marine associates), what are the requirements for a master less than 200gt coc.

The MCA have brought out the Master (code vessels <200gt), OOW (Yachts less than <500gt) CoC for those who hold a Yachtmaster Offshore or Yachtmaster Ocean, and would like to hold an MCA Master CoC.

There are 2 variants of the Master <200gt: ‘Limited to 150 miles from safe haven’ & ‘Unlimited area’.

If you hold the Yachtmaster Offshore CoC, you will get the limited Master <200gt CoC, if you hold the Yachtmaster Ocean CoC, you will get the unlimited Master <200gt CoC.

If your final aim is to achieve the Master <500gt or Master <3000gt CoC, you will need to have the OOW <3000gt CoC before you can move on to the Master CoCs.

In order to gain a Master <200gt CoC, you will need to do some classroom training, some sea service, and finally an oral exam.

Required Service:

You need to have 6 months of sea service on vessels of any size, whilst holding an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore or IYT Master of Yachts Limited certificate.

Sea Service Verification Process – please click here to read about new regulations.

The courses you must undertake for Master <200gt are:

STCW Basic Safety Week certificates (PST or RYA Basic Sea Survival/PSSR/Elementary First Aid/Basic Fire Fighting) RYA or IYT Yachtmaster Offshore or Yachtmaster Ocean Shorebased & Practical certs (either sail or power). These need to be  Commercially Endorsed NOTE: you don’t need to have a shorebased Yachtmaster certificate if your Yachtmaster CoC was issued before 31st July 2003 GMDSS ROC (if YM Offshore is used) or GMDSS GOC (if YM Ocean is used) certificate ENG1 Medical certificate Human Element Leadership & Management (Operational) certificate

Updating Training for CoC applications – anyone serving on board ship, who holds any of the following certificates must, as of 1st January 2017, have documentary evidence of either completing the training course or updating training within the last 5 years:

• Personal Survival Techniques
• Proficiency in Survival Craft & Rescue Boats (CPSC & RB)
• Proficiency in Fast Rescue Boats (PFRB)
• Basic Fire Fighting
• Advanced Fire Fighting

Applying for an NoE:

To do the final oral exam for Master <200gt, you will need a Notice of Eligibility. This document is issued once the MCA have assessed your eligibility, and an oral exam cannot be booked until the NoE is issued.

Your service needs to be proved with 2 forms of evidence for each vessel on which you are claiming service time. Usually a Testimonial and a Certificate of Discharge. If you have a discharge book, this can be used with a testimonial for each vessel, or if you are a member of the PYA they will attest your PYA logbook.

You must send a form of ID with your application. You can send a copy of your passport, signed by your Captain and with their CoC number noted, but you can also send any form of National ID – birth certificate or Discharge Book are usually easier to cope without!

Click here to view MSN 1858 (the testimonials and certificate of discharge can be found as annexes of the M Notice on pages 33-37)

Update to Electronic NoE application process & online oral exams

You will need to download the application form . You must complete the form and send all of your original certificates to the MCA. The NoE will be processed in about 28 days. Once the NoE is issued you are deemed eligible to take the oral exam.

JPMA offers oral preparation courses for the Master <200gt oral exam. Click here for details.

MCA Officer of the Watch – Master (Code Vessels <200gt) OOW (Yachts <500gt)

Work towards your master (code vessels 200gt) oow (yachts <500gt).

This generic MCA certificate of competency allows seafarers to become a captain of any vessel less than 200gt.This includes work boats and wind farm support vessels.

• GMDSS General Operators Certificate (GOC)

• Human Element, Leadership and Management (Operational Level)

Orals Preparation (Master< 200gt) OOW (Yachts less than 500gt)

Why the master 200gt, about the course.

Passing the Master 200gt will allow you to become the Captain on any vessel less than 200gt. This includes work boats and wind farm support vessels.

The Master (Code Vessels <200gt) Officer of the watch (Yachts <500gt) training covers two capacities:

• Limited (*not more than 150 miles from a safe haven)
• Unlimited (**unlimited area).

Before you can obtain the Master (Code Vessels <200gt), Officer of the watch (Yachts <500gt) Certificate of Competency (CoC) you must complete the relevant training modules along with the required MCA Ancillary courses to qualify to sit the Master (Code Vessels <200gt) Officer of the watch (Yachts <500gt) Certificate of Competency oral examination.

Required modules & certification

Required training & certification: , recommended training:  .

• Orals Preparation Master (Code Vessels <200gt) Officer of the Watch (Yachts <500gt)

To qualify for the Master (Code Vessels <200gt) Officer of the Watch (Yachts <500gt) Certificate of Competency Oral examination, you will be required to hold the pass certificates from the training courses above and also meet the following entry requirements.

Entry requirements

Limited certificate*.

Master Officer of the Watch limited – not more than 150 miles from safe haven.

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Have completed 6 months seagoing service while holding an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore or IYT Master of Yachts Limited certificate
• An RYA Yachtmaster Offshore certificate and a certificate of successful completion of a Shorebased Yachtmaster Offshore course; or
• An IYT Master of Yachts Limited
• Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent
• STCW Basic Safety Training

Unlimited Certificate**

Master Officer of the Watch unlimited – no limit on area

• Have completed 6 months seagoing service while holding an RYA Yachtmaster Ocean or IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited certificate
• An RYA Yachtmaster Ocean certificate and a certificate of successful completion of a shorebased Yachtmaster Ocean course;  or
• An IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited

Please Note: The above entry requirements are not required to attend the training courses for Master (Code Vessels less than 200gt) Officer of the watch (Yachts less than 500gt). However they are required to apply for your Notice of Eligibility (NoE) and sit the final CoC Oral Examination. Full details can be found on the MCA Oral Examination Form MSF 4343 .

For full Training and Certification Guidance of the UK requirements of Deck Officers on Large Yachts (over 24m) please refer to  MSN 1858 .

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• Maritime and shipping
• Seafarer management, training and certification
• Ship crew training and certification

Certification for Deck Officers on Commercial and Private yachts

Guidance for applying for a Deck CoC for Commercial and Private Yachts.

Applying for a Deck Commercial and Private Yachts CoC

To apply for a deck officer CoC specific to Yachts, please use form MSF 4343 .

Detailed information and guidance about yacht training and certification is available in MSN 1858 Amendment 1 .

Click here for the Yacht OOW less than 3000GT training record book . More information can be found in MSN 1858 Amendment 1 which details the sea service requirements for OOW Yachts that may grant an exemption from completing the TRB

Exam Syllabuses

Exam Syllabuses can be found on the MCA examination syllabuses page.

For Oral Exam Syllabuses please refer to UK seafarer careers: Training provision, information and examination syllabuses - Oral exam syllabuses

For written Exam Syllabuses please refer to UK seafarer careers: Training provision, information and examination syllabuses - written exam syllabuses .

New Sea Time Requirements

All seagoing service on board Yachts should be approved by either;

• Nautilus International (Nautilus)
• Professional Yachting Association (PYA)

Failure to do this can cause severe delays of around 160 days. Further information can be found in MIN 543

Conversions to a Yacht CoC

These conversions are subject to change, however your requirements will be listed on your NOE.

If you would like to obtain a Master yachts, less than 3,000 GT, II/2, Certificate of Competency, with the exception of ‘Celestial Navigation’, all IAMI written examinations must be passed prior to the issue of your Notice of Eligibility (NOE).

‘Celestial Navigation’ training module passes are valid for 1 year. All other yacht training module and examination certificates are valid for 3 years. The training module pass certificate must be in date at the time of the issue of the Certificate of Competency.

Seagoing service definitions for this conversion section can be found in MSN 1858 Amendment 1 .

The Ancillary Course Certificate Table on this page lists the ancillary and safety courses applicable to each yacht CoC .

All the references to a CoC or FSE pertain to those issued by the MCA unless otherwise started.

Conversions from a Fishing CoC

Conversion a.

If you hold a United Kingdom (UK) Class 1 (fishing vessel) CoC you must meet the following requirements to obtain a Master (code vessels less than 200 GT unlimited area) Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT) CoC :

• Hold the applicable ancillary technical and safety course certificates listed in Table A;
• Hold a valid ENG1 (Medical Fitness Certificate) or accepted equivalent.

Conversion B

If you hold a UK Class 1 (fishing vessel) CoC you must meet the following requirements to obtain a Master (yachts less than 500 GT) CoC :

• Business and Law (Master Yachts);
• Navigation, Radar and ARPA Simulator (Master Yachts);
• Pass the IAMI Celestial Navigation written examination;
• Hold a valid ENG1 (medical fitness certificate) or accepted equivalent;
• Pass the Master (yachts less than 500 GT) oral examination (to include command elements of Oral examination for Master Code Vessel less than 200 GT).

If you hold an Irish Deck Class 1 or Class 2 (fishing vessel) CoC you will be eligible to apply for the United Kingdom Fishing Class 1 (fishing vessel) CoC , provided that you meet the relevant sea time requirements. After you complete all of the requirements to obtain a UK Class 1 (fishing vessel) CoC , you will eligible to apply for conversions A and B.

Conversion C

If you hold a UK Class 2 (fishing vessel) or Second Hand Full (fishing vessel) CoC you must meet the following requirements to obtain a Master (Code vessels less than 200 GT not more than 150 miles from safe haven) Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 500 GT) CoC :

Conversions from an OOW II/1 CoC or FSE

Conversion d.

If you hold a UK OOW unlimited, regulation II/1 CoC you must meet the following requirements to obtain a Master (code vessels less than 200 GT unlimited area) CoC :

• 3 months’ seagoing service on vessels of between 15 metres and 24 metres or under 200 GT.
• Hold a valid ENG1 (Medical Fitness Certificate) or accepted equivalent;
• Pass MCA oral examination for the Master (Code vessels less than 200 GT) oral examination.

Seagoing service for the Master code less than 200GT CoC can be in the form of seagoing service testimonials or a company letter signed by the owner or operator. This cannot be self-certified.

Conversion E

If you hold an OOW unlimited, Regulation II/1 that is eligible to obtain an FSE you must meet the following requirements to obtain a UK Officer of the Watch (yachts less than 3000 GT) CoC :

• Hold the applicable ancillary technical and safety course certificates listed in Table A.
• Hold a valid ENG1 (Medical Fitness Certificate) or accepted equivalent
• Pass the OOW (yachts less than 3000 GT) oral examination.

Conversion F

If you hold a UK OOW unlimited, Regulation II/1 CoC you must meet the following requirements to obtain a Chief Mate (yachts less than 3000 GT) endorsement on your CoC :

Conversion G

If you hold a UK OOW unlimited, Regulation II/1 CoC you must meet the following requirements to obtain a Master (yachts less than 500 GT):

• 12 months’ seagoing service whilst holding an OOW Unlimited II/1 CoC ;
• Pass the Master (yachts less than 500 GT) oral examination.

Conversion H

If you hold a UK OOW unlimited, Regulation II/1 CoC you must meet the following requirements to obtain a Master (yachts less than 3000 GT) CoC :

• 24 months’ seagoing service whilst holding an OOW CoC ;
• Pass an MCA approved Celestial Navigation examination;
• Pass the Master (yachts less than 3000 GT) oral examination.

Conversion I

If you hold an OOW unlimited, regulation II/1 that is eligible to obtain an FSE you must meet the following requirements to obtain Master (yachts less than 500 GT) CoC :

• 12 months’ seagoing service whilst holding OOW II/1 CoC ;
• Seamanship and Meteorology (Master Yachts);
• Stability (Master Yachts);

Conversion J

If you hold an OOW unlimited, Regulation II/1 that is eligible to obtain an FSE you must meet the following requirements to obtain Master (yachts less than 3,000 GT):

• 24 months’ seagoing service whilst holding OOW II/1 CoC ;
• Pass the Master (yachts less than 3,000 GT) oral examination.

Conversions from a Chief Mate or Master CoC or FSE

Conversion k.

If you hold a Chief Mate unlimited, Regulation II/2, that is eligible to obtain an FSE you must meet the following requirements to obtain Master (yachts less than 3000 GT):

• 12 months’ sea going service whilst holding Chief Mate CoC ;

Conversion L

If you hold a Master unlimited, Regulation II/2, that is eligible to obtain an FSE to you must meet the following requirements to obtain a Master II/2 (yachts less than 3000 GT) CoC :

Conversion M

If you hold a Master less than 500 GT or 3000 GT unlimited area, Regulation II/2 that is eligible to obtain an FSE you must meet the following requirements to obtain a Master (yachts less than 3000 GT):

• 12 months’ seagoing service whilst holding a Master II/2 CoC ;

Conversions from a French, Italian or New Zealand Yacht CoC

Conversion n.

If you hold an OOW Yacht, less than 3000 GT, Unlimited area Regulation II/1, CoC issued by the French, Italian or New Zealand Maritime authority you must meet the following requirements to obtain Master II/2 (yachts less than 500 GT) CoC :

• 12 months’ onboard service and 120 days watchkeeping service whilst holding an OOW CoC ;
• Navigation and Radar ( OOW yachts);
• General Ship Knowledge ( OOW yachts);
• Business and Law (Master Yachts) ;
• Navigation, Radar and ARPA Simulator (Master Yachts)

Conversion O

If you hold an OOW Yacht restricted, less than 3000 GT, unlimited area regulation II/1, CoC issued by the French, Italian or New Zealand Maritime authority you must meet the following requirements to obtain Master II/2 (yachts less than 3,000 GT) CoC :

• 24 months’ onboard service and 240 days watchkeeping service whilst holding an OOW CoC ;

Conversion P

If you hold a Master Yacht restricted, less than 500 GT regulation II/2, CoC issued by the French, Italian or New Zealand Maritime authority you must meet the following requirements to obtain Master II/2 (yachts less than 3000 GT):

• 12 months’ onboard service and 120 days watchkeeping service whilst holding a Master Yacht II/2, Yacht CoC ;

Conversion Q

If you hold a Master Yacht restricted, less than 3,000 GT unlimited area, regulation II/2 CoC issued by the French, Italian or New Zealand Maritime authority you must meet the following requirements to obtain Master II/2 (yachts less than 3000 GT):

Ancillary Course Certificate Table

For the MCA’s acceptance of certificates from foreign Flag States for various certificates, please see Section 5 of MSN 1858 Amendment 1 or Section 4 of MIN 643

For the issue of a CoC :

A - For these Certificates the MCA will accept certificates issued under the authority of any IMO White List country.

B - For these Certificates the MCA will accept certificates issued under the authority of any EU/EEA Member State, and may accept those issued under the authority of Canada, New Zealand and South Africa.

C - For these Certificates the Certificates must be MCA-approved.

D - For these Certificates the MCA will accept certificates issued under the authority of any EU Member State and those listed on the approved list available from our website: www.gov.uk and search “GMDSS”.

Updating Training

You will be required to provide documentary evidence of either completing the training course or updating your training within the preceding 5 years for these certificates for all CoC applications. To satisfy Port State Control requirements you will need to hold evidence onboard your vessel of completing or updating your training within the last 5 years. For further information relating to STCW course certificates, including their validity, please refer to [MSN 1865 amendment 1]https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/msn-1865-m-amendment-1-uk-requirements-for-emergency-occupational-safety-security-medical-care-and-survival-functions).

Proficiency Survival Craft and Rescue Boats (Other than fast rescue boats) - (Restricted)

Proficiency Survival Craft and Rescue Boats (Other than fast rescue boats) - (Restricted), previously Non-STCW Advanced Sea Survival, may be accepted in lieu of Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats for Yacht CoCs. Your CoC will be endorsed with the following limitation: “Not for use on ships equipped with davit launched lifeboats”

Non-STCW Advanced Sea Survival and Proficiency Survival Craft and Rescue Boats (Other than fast rescue boats) - (Restricted) must be updated every 5 years in line with Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats. The MCA would recommend that all seafarers hold an STCW Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats Certificate of Proficiency. This is due to potential problems of Port State Control Officers outside of the UK, not accepting non-STCW Advanced Sea Survival.

Any person operating any radio equipment must be appropriately qualified. The GMDSS course forms part of the education and training required to obtain a UK CoC . To obtain a UK CoC you must hold a valid GMDSS certificate issued by the UK or an administration recognised by the MCA. The certificate must have an STCW endorsement. For further information about the GMDSS and how to obtain an STCW endorsement, please refer to MSN 1864 amendment 1 or search our website www.gov.uk for “GMDSS”.

Medical Care

The Medical Care certificate is valid for a period of 5 years. This must be valid when you apply for your Certificate of Competency. If you serve on an EU-registered vessel as a Master or are the person in charge of medical care on a vessel operating in the unlimited area, you will need to have undertaken approved Medical Care training or a refresher course within the previous 5 years. This is the requirement of Article 4(1) (b) of Directive 92/29 EEC.

MCA Approved ECDIS Training is a mandatory requirement for OOW (yachts less than 3000GT), Chief Mate (yachts less than 3000 GT), Master (yachts less than 500 GT and 3000 GT).

If you are applying for a Master Code Vessel, less than 200 GT, CoC and do not complete an MCA-approved ECDIS course you will receive the following limitation:

“From the 1 January 2017 this certificate is not valid for service on ships fitted with ECDIS.”

Clarified Conversions D, F, G, H are from UK CoCs only.

Update to reflect new M Notices.

Updated Sea Time requirements for French, Italian and New Zealand Yacht Licence holders.

MIN 520 replaced with MIN 535, Medical Care guidance added

New sea time requirements added

First published.

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Maritime Training & Consultancy

Master 200/500 oral prep course.

Online Classes with a Tutor

Master 200 Course Details & Fees

The MCA Master 200 is a progression from RYA Yachtmaster Offshore/Ocean qualification and is needed to work on crew transfer vessels where it is required to have MCA STCW qualification. The qualification allows Masters to take charge of a vessel up to 200gt.

The Master 200 Certificate of Competence (CoC) can be limited or unlimited. Limited allows operation of up to 150nm from a Safe Haven and Unlimited allows worldwide use.

The Syllabus is a lot larger and more in depth than the RYA Yachtmaster. It is not possible to cover everything in 6 days so a lot of study is required prior to, during and after the course. Support will be provided throughout your study. The topics covered include;

Navigational Safety

Meteorology

Maintain a Safe Navigational Watch

International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (ColRegs)

Response to Emergencies, Operational Safety and Pollution Control

Seaworthiness of Vessel, Stability

Business and Law

The full syllabus can be downloaded here

Prior Qualifications Required

Pre-Requisites for Master 200 Limited:

Minimum of 18 years old

Have completed 6 months’ seagoing service while holding an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore or IYT Master of Yachts Limited certificate

Hold a valid ENG1 Medical

RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence (Commercial Endorsed)

RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Coastal/Offshore Shorebased Certificate

4 x STCW Basic Safety Training Modules (Fire Fighting, PSSR, Elementary First Aid, Personal Survival Techniques)

A GMDSS Restricted Operators Certificate (ROC)

HELM Operational Certificate (Human Element Leadership & Management)

·        

Additional requirements for Master 200 Unlimited:

RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence (Commercial Endorsed)

RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Shorebased Certificate

A GMDSS General Operators Certificate (GOC)

Examination:

Candidates are required to complete a Notice of Eligibility (NoE) and send it off to the MCA. Allow at least 28 days for the MCA to process your NoE. Master 200 Oral Examinations are conducted online. 

Course Options

MCA Master 200 Oral Prep Course:  Is an online tutor led course, starting on the first Monday of each month. There are three sessions on the first Monday/Tuesday of the month, the second Monday/Tuesday of the month and the third Monday/Tuesday of the month. Included are, three one hour  mock oral exams with written feedback,  one months access to online course notes  - €1200

Two hour mock oral exam or an hour of additional tuition on a topic(s)   of your choice - €200 ​

Three one hour mock oral exams or three one hour sessions of additional tuition  on a topic(s) of your choice €550

Testimonials

Fantastic course.

Fantastic course, Andy fitted the training around my leave and the quality of teaching was superb throughout. Very happy! 

I cannot speak too highly

James, "He had a knack of helping me find ways of understanding difficult topics and I would without hesitation recommend his services  to any seafarers looking to further their sea careers".

William, "Well presented course and very knowledgeable on the subject".

James and William

Superb Throughout

Many thanks for all your time and support Andy, superb throughout.

Master 500 Workboat Course Details & Fees

Master 500 Topics covered will be;

Passage planning including publications

Ship/Bridge procedures

Marine pollution

Col Regs  including radar & plotting

Taking over the watch

Emergency Procedures and much more...

Master 500 Examination:

Candidates are required to complete a Notice of Eligibility (NoE) and send it off to the MCA. Allow at least 28 days for the MCA to process your NoE. Master 500 Oral Examinations are conducted online. 

Master 500 course fees are €1200

Hi, I’m Andy. I’m a Chief Officer and have been an MCA, MSO and RYA instructor for the last six years. Additionally, I am a qualified trainer and ISM, ISO 9001, ISO 14001 auditor, having carried out audits for many large multinationals and have a diploma in Ship Charter Management.  I have sailed on general cargo ships, container ships, oil tankers, lighthouse, lightvessel and buoy tendering ships, cable laying vessels (DP2) and guard vessels worldwide. I am passionate about training and education, having supported many learners to obtain their Master 200 CoC and I’m always willing to go the extra mile to support all learners.

What is the Master 200 and how is it reached?

The Master 200 qualification is the following level after Yachtmaster (Offshore or Ocean). If you took the M200 (limited) as only a YM Offshore, it is a simple stamp to add the Ocean later and become a M200 (unlimited).

There are two options of the Master 200. The preparation for both is the same, depends on your experience and knowledge:

• The Master 200 (limited) can operate up to 150NM from a safe haven
• The full Master 200 (unlimited) qualification allows you to operate globally.

Important: some countries don’t recognise these certificates.

• Outside the UK the Master 200 is more recognised than the Yachtmaster.
• If you qualified to the Master 200 automatically you qualified as a watch officer (OOW) on yachts up to 500 tonnes.
• Skippers who hold the Master 200 qualification are considered step above those with the Yachtmaster and are more employable.
• Is a bridging between the MCA/RYA Yachtmaster courses and the MCA Deck Officer Courses.

Exam Pre-requisites:

• Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate sail or power
• RYA Coastal Skipper / Yachtmaster Offshore Shorebased Certificate
• STCW GMDSS Restricted Operator’s Certificate
• STCW Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities
• STCW  Elementary First Aid OR Medical First Aid on Board Ship  OR Medical Care on board Ship
• STCW Basic Fire Fighting & Fire Prevention
• STCW Personal Survival Techniques  or RYA Sea Survival
• STCW Security Awareness
• ENG1 Medical
• Minimum age 18
• HELM (Human Element Leadership & Management, Operational Level)
• Have completed at least 6 months seagoing service while holding your RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate
• Notice of Eligibility from the MCA
• Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate (sail or power)
• RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Shorebased Certificate
• STCW GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate
• STCW Elementary First Aid OR Medical First Aid on Board Ship  OR Medical Care on board Ship
• STCW Personal Survival Techniques  OR RYA Sea Survival
• HELM O (Human Element Leadership & Management, Operational Level)
• Have completed at least 6 months seagoing service while holding your RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence

Related Posts

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What would you carry in your emergency bag?

About the RYA

Maritime Training & Consultancy

Mca master 200.

Book on one of our Upcoming Master 200 Prep Courses below. Future dates are available, please contact the office for details. 

SeaRegs offers a regular programme of preparation courses for Master 200/OOW 500 candidates at their Plymouth based classroom.

Training can be provided for groups at a venue to suit, in the UK and overseas. 

For all candidates on our Master Preparation course, to back up the training pack and tuition in the classroom we provide a one stop shop of resources via a secure link on our website. Please contact the office if you’d like to be reminded of the password.

Plymouth Dates

Filter by category: Show All 5 Day Sail Course Advanced powerboat AEC Boat Maintenance cmhb Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Theory COSHH Day Skipper Motor Day Skipper Theory ECDIS ECS & Radar EDH Fire Fighting First Aid Food Safety HealthSafety HELM (operational) Helmsman Highfield Fire IMO 6.09 Intermediate Powerboat ISAF Manual Handling MCA MCA Master 200 MCA STCW 95 Mile Builder Other PB2 PDSD Plymouth Powerboat Instructor PSSR/PSA Radar Risk Assessment RYA RYA Diesel Engine RYA Powerboating RYA VHF/SRC Saturday Sail Security Small Ships Nav Radar Stability Stability Survival Tender Operator Weekend Sail Yachtmaster Yachtmaster Motor Yachtmaster Sail Dates

Preparation Courses (5 days)

We start the course looking at Business, Law and Regulation so that we have a solid foundation for the rest of the week. On the first night one of your homework tasks is to review the Master 200 syllabus and outline what areas you would like particular help on over the remaining days.

We then run through our own syllabus and yours to ensure that we get consistent coverage of the Master 200 syllabus. For a standard course we would expect to refresh chart work skills with a quick test to check your background knowledge. We cover Electronic Navigation, Radar, Watch-keeping, Navtex, Bridge Procedure, Masters Responsibility, Watch Handover, ColRegs Rule 19 Restricted Visibility, GMDSS, Bridge Control Failure, Pollution Prevention, Pollution Incidents, Garbage Management, Stability, CoSWP, Musters, Legal Obligation and Crew Agreements.

The Master 200 syllabus is pretty vast and we suggest that you leave a slight gap between the prep course and exam in order to consolidate what you have learnt.

Plymouth Price: £995 London Price: £POA Duration: 5 Days 

Master 200/OOW 500 Mock Oral Exam (2hrs) – £80

If you would like a shot at a mock oral exam we offer a 2 hour session with one of our Instructors acting as an examiner. The mock oral examination consists of 1 1/2 hour examination and 30 minute debrief and action planning. If you have had a preparation course with us, we will endeavour to arrange the mock exam with a different instructor. 

Please contact us for availability and questions. 

Online Master 200/OOW 500 Mock Oral or Prep (2 or 4 hr sessions) 

This is a highly effective way to cram particular subjects or general subject area. We can use Skype or Zoom, so you will need an internet connection. The system we use is fully interactive and previous students have given very positive feedback. 

The system is fully tailored to subject areas that you would like to work on or we cover mock oral exam. As the training is tailored exactly to your needs, a lot of ground can be covered quite quickly, or we can spend more time on particular subject areas that you require. 

1x 2-hour session: £80 2x 2-hour sessions: £155 4x 2-hour sessions: £300 8x 2-hour sessions: £550 

Please note the above pricing is for online sessions only. If you’d like to come in for 1:1 tuition in the classroom, this is charged at £325 inc VAT for a full day, or £200 inc VAT for a half day.

Contact the office for details or to book sessions.

Dear Mr Jinks Ref:- Master Unlimited MCA Exam  Many thanks for providing me with a one/two day refresher course vis Skype directly to my home. The Skype method was absolutely perfect and covered the essential exam material I needed to refresh on. The material was also spot on as I was asked many of those questions in the exam.  I recommend your Skype method to anyone who is about to take their MCA exams for any discipline. I believe I  was the first to utilise your method and i am glad i did, the fee was worth every penny.  Once again many thanks and I wish you many more Skype students in the future. Best wishes,  John M (Master Mariner) 

What is the Master 200/OOW 500?

The MCA Master (Code vessels less than 200GT) is very similar to the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore qualification but can be useful when operating from foreign ports when the port officials are more used to recognising MCA or Flag State qualifications. In some cases overseas administrations allow seafarers to operate the flagged vessels if they hold a MCA certificate referencing STCW. It can be used by skippers on vessels up to 200GT or by an OOW on vessels to 500GT. The Master 200 has different operational levels; ‘limited’, allowing operations up to 150 miles or ‘unlimited’ for worldwide use. Holders of Yachtmaster Ocean with a GOC GMDSS certificate are classed as unlimited. 

Gaining the Master 200

The MCA Master 200 – OOW 500 is gained after successfully passing an oral examination with an MCA examiner. There is no set MCA or RYA preparation course for the Master 200 – OOW 500 oral exam. 50% of the MCA Master 200 oral exam syllabus includes items covered in the RYA Yachtmaster training programme: Navigations, IRPCS, Meteorology, Chartwork etc. The remaining 50% of syllabus items are rarely covered or encountered in normal RYA training: Business and Law, MarPol, Stability, Bridge Procedures etc. 

Pre-Requirements for Master 200/OOW 500 Limited

• RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence 
• RYA Yachtmaster/Coastal Skipper Shorebased Certificate
• Personal Survival Techniques (STCW A-VI/1-3) or non-STCW RYA Basic Sea Survival
• Fire Fighting and Fire Prevention (STCW A-VI/1-2) 
• Elementary First Aid (STCW A-VI/1-3)
• Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (STCW A-VI/1-4)
• GMDSS Restricted Operators Certificate (ROC)
• HELM Operational Certificate (Human Element Leadership and Management)

Additional Pre-Requirements for Master 200/OOW 500 Unlimited

• RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean
• RYA Shorebased Yachtmaster Ocean 
• GMDSS General Operators Certificate (GOC) 

Examination

Candidates are required to complete a Notice of Eligibility (NoE) and send it to the MCA. The MCA recommend that you allow at least 28 days to process the NoE. Oral examinations are conducted at MCA offices around the country and we can assist candidates to arrange the exams, especially in the Plymouth and Falmouth areas. 

We hope that you can find the information you require on these pages, if you have any further questions, or require advice, please call us. 

Chieftain Training

RYA & STCW Courses – Sail, Power, Super-Yacht & Workboat

How to Pass the Yachtmaster Exam

Yachtmaster certificate of competence exam top tips, which yachtmaster.

First we need to be clear which Yachtmaster exam we are talking about. Leaving things like the Yachtmaster Instructor and Examiner Qualifications aside there are no less than 8 separate RYA certificates that are called “Yachtmaster”. This includes the 3 independently examined levels of Yachtmaster Certificate of Competence, (coastal, offshore and ocean).

RYA MCA Coastal Skipper & Yachtmaster Offshore Shorebased Course

( Yachtmaster Offshore Shorebased for short). This is a 6 day course which includes three written papers. It is assumed knowledge for all of the certificates that follow, so we will assume for the purposes of this article that you have already completed this course.

Yachtmaster Coastal Certificate of Competence (power or sail)

This certificate follows the successful completion of a practical exam which is discussed in this article. The exam can be taken on board a sailing yacht or motor boat, (and the qualification is endorsed for the relative type of craft). The Yachtmaster Coastal CoC certifies skippers to operate  up-to 20 miles from a safe haven on board commercial vessels up-to 24m, carrying up-to 12 passengers. It can also be used as an entry requirement for super yacht Officer Training ( OOW 3000 ).

Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence (power or sail)

A higher level practical exam, also discussed in this article. This certifies skippers to operate up-to 150 miles from a safe haven on board commercial vessels up-to 2000 tonnes, (again with up-to 12 passengers). It can also be used as an entry requirement for super yacht officer training and is a requirement to progress onto Yachtmaster Ocean CoC (below) and/or  MCA Master 200 .

RYA MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Shorebased Certificate

aka Ocean Shorebased . This is a 5 day (or 40 hour online) course which includes one written paper. It is assumed knowledge for the oral exam that follows and beyond the scope of this article. You can read all about the Ocean Yachtmaster Course and Exam here .

Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence (power or sail)

An even higher level certificate that qualifies the holder to skipper beyond the 150 mile from a safe haven limit of the Yachtmaster Offshore CoC. The Yachtmaster Ocean exam is an oral exam and one of its pre requisites is the Yachtmaster Offshore CoC (above).The Yachtmaster Ocean Exam is beyond the scope of this article, but by popular request we have written a separate article about it,   MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence .

RYA MCA Yachtmaster Coastal and Offshore Certificate of Competence Practical Exam

Getting back on topic this article specifically relates to the two practical exams (Coastal and Offshore), each can be taken onboard a sailing yacht or motor boat.

The exam for the Yachtmaster Coastal CoC and the Yachtmaster Offshore CoC is very similar and in fact different candidates can be examined together even if they are not taking the same level.

Exams are conducted with 1-4 candidates on board the vessel.

You can take the Yachtmaster exam on a sailing yacht or motorboat, and you will become a Sail or Power Yachtmaster as appropriate. This article covers sail and power exams as much of the advice is generic.

The RYA/MCA Yachtmaster qualification is the global standard for sailing and motor boating. The definition of a Yachtmaster Coastal/Offshore is: ‘A yachtsman or woman competent to skipper a cruising yacht on any passage that can be completed without the use of astro navigation.’

The RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Certificate of Competence remains the logical target of many a self-motivated sailor. It also represents the icing on the cake for those looking for the reassurance of an external assessment.

How long is the Yachtmaster Exam?

There can be up to 4 candidates on the boat with the examiner. A examiner will not conduct more than 4 exams at once and will not plan to examine more than 2 candidates in a 24 hour period. He/she will need to see each candidate skipper the boat underway by night.

Yachtmaster Coastal Exam Duration

• 1 Candidate – 6 to 10 hours
• More than one candidate  – 4 to 8 hours each

Yachtmaster Offshore Exam Duration

• 1 Candidate – 8 to 12 hours
• More than one candidate  – 5 to 9 hours each

For many candidates this means there will be a pause mid-exam while they and the examiner get some sleep before restarting in the morning. It is not unknown for exams to span two nights if there are 4 candidates (for example Friday evening 1800- Sunday morning 1100)

Listed below are some top tips to help you prepare for your RYA/MCA Yachtmaster exam.

Prepare early for your yachtmaster exam.

Most candidates spend some time with an Instructor, whether this is a 5-day preparation course with a sea school or some bespoke tuition on board their own boat. A half decent Yachtmaster Instructor will take you through many of the exercises that an Examiner will expect you to demonstrate and will put you in the mind-set of an exam candidate.

On the day  of the exam make sure you are ready in good time so that you aren’t involved in a last-minute faff. If you’re relaxing in the cockpit with a cup of tea when the examiner arrives, the examiner will be more impressed than if you’ve put yourself under stress attempting to work out the day’s tidal heights or secondary ports last minute!

When given a navigation task, prepare fully, make notes, prepare pilotage sketches and plan well! Nip below every so often en route to keep an eye on what’s going on in the chart department and whizz back on deck pronto to carry on skippering the boat. Don’t panic and don’t spend all your time sat behind the chart table, taking no notice of what’s going on around you, this is an obvious sign of someone who is ill prepared for the passage they are skippering.

HAVE YOUR YACHTMASTER EXAM PAPERWORK READY (and the kettle boiling)

The very first part of the exam will be paperwork. Before the examiner can proceed he/she will;

• Ask for your completed exam application form, be sure it is completed in advance and details your qualifying sea time.
• Ask for payment, (the examiner can not proceed if you do not pay up front)
• Ask for sight of your Short Range Certificate , (or a pass form if you have recently taken the course and exam and are awaiting the actual certificate). Higher level GMDSS certificates are acceptable.
• Request a passport photo of you (write your name on the back).
• Chat with you about your yachting background and qualifying sea time
• Outline what he/she expect from you over the coming day(s).

If you are applying for a commercial endorsement at the same time you will also require as a minimum;

• PPR Certificate
• Sea Survival Certificate
• Seafarers Medical Certificate
• Commercial endorsement form and payment

You will also need to hold an in date  First Aid Certificate .

BE TIDY AND ORGANISED THROUGHOUT YOUR YACHTMASTER EXAM

First impressions count! Make yourself presentable and ensure you’re looking professional. That’s you and the boat!

Make sure the yacht is clean, tidy and seamanlike. The waterline crisp, sail covers looking ship shape, ropes coiled neatly and carefully stowed and fenders aligned. An experienced skipper once told me, you should know your boat so well that you should be able to find anything you need at any moment in time, including at night during power failure! A tidy boat is a sure sign of a safe boat.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT PREPARATION, FOR YOUR YACHTMASTER EXAM

Repetition, repetition, repetition. There is no point in having sailed (or motored) thousands and thousands of nautical miles if you can’t carry out Day Skipper tasks. If you can not confidently demonstrate all boat handling or seamanship skills, such as picking up a mooring buoy or putting a reef in, then you’re not ready for the exam yet!

There is nothing worse than entering or leaving a marina, wondering if you’re going to hit something. Brief your crew, make sure everyone knows what they are doing, and proceed with confidence. If the boat slides smoothly out of her berth with crew briefed and knowing what’s expected you will look good. Your calm manner, and a sensible amount of revs for power handling will immediately put the examiner’s mind at ease and give no reason for concern. If Plan A fails, take a breath, and start over. The examiner understands that mistakes can be made under exam conditions, he/she will be more impressed if you stop, recompose yourself and get the manoeuvre right, rather than continue to try and complete a bodged first attempt. There is no such things as a perfect exam, every candidate will make small mistakes, the stronger candidates will spot them, themselves and do something about them.

Without a doubt, you will be quizzed on COLREGS . There’s no reason for a candidate, not to have these regulations engrained into their brain. A good way of ensuring you have these nailed, is to study ‘A Seaman’s Guide to the Rule of the Road.’

YACHTMASTER EXAM IRPCS

There is no need to learn the collision regulation parrot fashion but you should have a working knowledge of every rule and you should be able to;

• Identify any vessel at night by lights
• Describe the day shape for any vessel
• Describe the fog signal for any vessel
• Explain any rule
• Apply the collision regulations practically through the exam
• Explain what actions you would take in fog if you have detected another vessel by radar alone.

Candidates who forget a particular rule such as “ what does a vessel constrained by night display at night? ” MAY still pass if they know the rest of the rules and are otherwise strong, however a candidate who fails to apply the rules correctly when he/she is skippering will fail. If a large vessel sounds 5 horns at you during your exam you are going to have to work very hard to recover! Do not put yourself in a position where this might occur.

YACHTMASTER OFFSHORE SHOREBASED KNOWLEDGE

Be ready, know your subject.

You can be quizzed on anything within the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Shorebased Course,  you will also be expected to put the navigation, IRPCS, passage planning and forecast skills from this course into practice. If you don’t have this knowledge then you are waisting your exam fee as you will fail. You will also be tested on a basic understanding of Radar and Diesel engines . I am a strong believer that all Yachtmaster candidates as well as having passed the Yachtmaster Offshore Shorebased course should also have attended the following courses before taking their practical exam as you can be tested on any and all of these areas.

• RYA Short Range Certificate , it is likely you will each be quizzed on VHF procedures, distress alerting, the mayday call or other calls during the exam. You may also need to make a routine call to a marina or harbour during the exam.
• RYA Sea Survival . The safety brief that you deliver will include lots of content from this course, (i.e flares, EPIRB, life raft and life jackets), you can expect to be questioned on more detail on these and other areas.
• RYA Diesel . Typically candidates will be examined on engine checks and they will also be given a part of the engine to talk about or a common problem to solve, for example, “ Can you talk me through how you would bleed the full system on this engine ,” or “ Show me the components of the cooling system and explain which part of it may need servicing at sea if the system has run dry for a brief period’ “
• RYA Radar.  If the vessel is fitted with a radar you will be tested on its basic set up and use. You should be able to fix position by radar, find a spot on the chart by radar and identify when a risk of collision exists by radar. If there is not a radar set on board, any of this can be tested theoretically. All candidates should be tested on radar and motor candidate tend to be pushed a little further on this area, (while they escape the sailing part of the assessment).
• RYA First Aid . While you are required to hold a First Aid Certificate, Yachtmaster examiners will not test First Aid beyond the treatment for hypothermia, the effects of cold shock, calling for medical assistance and discussing evacuation by helicopter.

TAKE CHARGE DURING YOUR YACHTMASTER EXAM

One of the key things an examiner is looking for, is to see how good the candidates are at taking charge. This is more than just a sailing (or motoring) exam it is a skippering exam. Can you manage your boat? Can you manage your crew? Clear, decisive and safe briefings followed by ongoing directions to the crew are required.

Good leadership and seamanship alike, do not involve barking orders, it is about being in control in a calm, effective and efficient manner while showing you can skipper (lead). Demonstrate your organisational and methodical thinking.

Play to your strengths. There is no definitive way to be a skipper, so don’t change your tried and tested methods to try and impress. Stick with what you know and carry them out smoothly and confidently. Don’t rush and panic. “Go slow like a pro.”

YACHMASTER EXAM MAN OVERBOARD

It is almost a, “dead cert,” that each candidate will be asked to demonstrate a MOB drill at some point during the exam. This is typically done using a fender or similar attached to a small weight, (never a real person). There is a myth that Yachtmaster Examiners expect the drill to be carried out by the “RYA method,” and this is true, what is not true however is the various myths of what constitutes the RYA method!

Yachtmaster Exam – Man Overboard RYA Method

Your examiner will expect you to a take charge, not to loose sight of the MOB (fender), to get back to it safely without endangering other crew and to get the boat stopped alongside the casualty with the casualty somewhere safe (i.e near the leeward shroud on a sail boat and not too close to the props on a motor exam), ready for pick up back on board.

Man Overboard Exam Tips

If you are training with other candidates agree a method that works for all of you. When you are the skipper under assessment you want your crew to react and know what is expected of them. If each candidate on the same boat opts for a different MOB method it can lead to confusion.

Along the way you should simulate/say everything relevant to the casualties survival (mention throwing the MOB gear overboard, appoint a spotter, press the MOB function on the GPS, tell the examiner you would assign a crew members to issue a distress alert and Mayday call).

Man Overboard Exam Tips (for sail candidates)

In addition to the tick list in the above paragraph, use the engine! The exact drill of how you reach/tack, slow down, speed up etc. will vary from candidate to candidate and boat to boat. The important thing is that the method you opt to use works and is safe. I advise against gybing during your MOB drill in medium and stronger winds.

A sail candidate who opts to approach the casualty from upwind (where the mainsail will be filled as you sail or motor downwind) would be demonstrating a gross misunderstanding of how to control speed and how to stop a sailing yacht.

Man Overboard Exam Tips (for power candidates)

In addition to the tick list two paragraphs above be mindful of the rest of the crew. If at high speed when the MOB occurs, don’t turn suddenly, instead slow the boat down and ensure crew know if you intend to make a sharp turn. We don’t want  a crew ember (or the examiner) to fall over or worse overboard! On many boats in light and moderate conditions you can turn the boat and follow your wake to return to the MOB, in rougher sea states this might not work. There are basically three steps.

• Dont loose the MOB’s position
• Get back to the MOB
• Get alongside the MOB for pick up, without running him over

On many motor boats having got the boat back to the vicinity of the MOB, it pays to orientate yourself beam onto the wind and upwind of the MOB and allow the vessel to be blown sideways towards the MOB, this protects him/her from the risk of the bow and engine and is often referred to as the drift down method. As with sailing there are lost of variations on this method and what is important is the method that you use is safe and that it works.

YACHMASTER EXAM SAILING MANOUVERS

It is likely that you will be asked to either sail onto or sail off a swinging mooring (mooring bouy), an anchor or a pontoon. Make sure you are comfortable and competent at all before your exam. By way of example I will focus here on the mooring buoy. In non tidal waters the boat will lie on the mooring head to wind so the approach will be on a close reach under mainsail. In tidal waters certain combination of wind against tide may dictate an approach under headsail on a different point of sail.

The examiner will expect to see you;

• Brief the crew on how the manoeuvre will be performed
• Helm throughout the manoeuvre
• Prepare the boat for the manoeuvre (using the crew)
• Select the correct direction and angle of approach
• Select the correct sail combination for this approach
• Control the boat speed on the approach bringing the boat to a stop in a controlled manner
• Picking up and secure to the mooring bouy safely

If at any point the manoeuvre is not working the examiner will expect you to make the decision to bail-out and to have an escape plan in mind. Remember it will be your call to bail out not his.

YACHTMASTER EXAM, BOAT HANDLING UNDER POWER

During the exam you will have to demonstrate some boat handling under power. This may be a natural part of a passage you are skippering (i.e. at the start and end of the passage) or may be a specific boat handling session. Most candidates will demonstrate they can moor up, depart a berth and turn the boat in a confined space. You may be asked to demonstrate more than one berth so the examiner can see how you respond to different states of wind and tide. Some times an examiner will be specific (for example ask you to berth starboard side to, stern first on pontoon XYZ), other times he will leave some of the decision making to you and simply say berth on pontoon ABC. In the second  example he will expect to see you make a sensible decision as to whether to moor bow or stern first and from where to approach. If you are asked to repeat a manoeuvre performed by another candidate do not make the mistake of blindly copying the last candidate, take a minute to consider if they did it well or if an alternative approach would work better. Every boat manouvers differently but there are some givens for close quarter handling;

• Slow is Pro!
• Approaching down forces i.e. down tide (or down wind if no tide) is poor seamanship if you have the option not to
• Using excessive engine revs in confined space demonstrates a lack of experience and control
• Turning against prop walk should be avoided if possible.
• Using wind, tide, pivot points, momentum and prop walk to assist you will all make your manoeuvring easier and, “score you points” in the examiner’s mind.

If the manoeuvre is not working, bailing out safely is far better than perceiving trying to a make the best of a bad job. I can assure you that if you are half way through a manoeuvre and suddenly realise you have selected the wrong approach the examiner has spotted this several minutes earlier. He/she will be quietly hoping you opt to rectify the error rather than compounding it by continuing. Don’t disappoint him by continuing an approach that is clearly too fast or not going to work.

Just like the sailing manoeuvres described above you need to helm the boat through these manoeuvres, brief the crew and perform the manoeuvre well. You should not rely on crew jumping ashore with lines to stop the boat, you as helm should stop the boat so that crew can step ashore safely. If a spring line is appropriate to depart a berth then use it, but don’t over complicate things. It is quite embarrassing when a candidate opts to “spring off” a “wind off” berth when they could have simply just let the lines go. If manoeuvring in close quarters still phases you then you are not ready for the Yachtmaster exam and need some more boat handling practice first.

YACHTMASTER EXAM SUMMARY

There are many more components to the exam (pilotage, blind pilotage, voyage planning etc.) and the above is just a taster. If I have not scared you off yet, you have your own boat and require bespoke training (power or sail) I can be contacted through this site.

Yachtmaster Instructor

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Yacht Crew Training Fort Lauderdale

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The International Convention of Standards of Training, Certification and Watch Keeping for Seafarers defines the training necessary for all persons employed at sea. Starting out requires the completion of basic safety training courses which are compulsory requirements for all yacht crew.

STCW Refresher Program (STCW 10 Refresher / Revalidation)

Have You Satisfied the STCW Five Year Requirement – Providing Evidence You Have Maintained the Required Competence in Basic Training? STCW 10 Refresher / Revalidation entry requirements stipulated that you have previously been issued with a STCW certificate (STCW 95). This course is a requirement of the amended STCW 2010.

On-Line Tacht Crew Training Courses

Professional Yacht Training, Fort Lauderdale offers select on-line training courses through our training partner, VIRSEC. From MCA Approved STCW ISPS Maritime Security trainings to Hostile Environment Awareness & Antiterrorism trainings, VIRSEC’s fully online courses are user-friendly, affordable and easily accessible.

We provide the Fort Lauderdale yacht crew training courses you require for MCA compliance and which are widely accepted for the private and commercial operations of both power & sailing yachts up to 3000 gross tons. The accreditation is widely recognized by all major yacht regulatory bureaus, insurance companies, as well as charter & management agencies.

The mca officer of the watch certificate consists of seven different modules ( oow crew training courses ), these are required to be completed for the mca officer of the watch (yachts less than 3000 gt) certificate of competency and are preparation for the mca oral exam..

Fort Lauderdale Yacht Crew Training School

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No Surprises – No Hidden Costs

Your costs are inclusive of exam fees and training boat time.

You receive a commercial-grade certification, not an “endorsed” leisure ticket.

Full MCA approval for 200 ton Masters Certificate.

Fort Lauderdale Training Facilities

Centrally located in the heart of the “yachting capital of the world”.

Within walking distance of crew houses and marinas.

Crew agencies are also just steps away.

Professional & Knowledgeable Staff

Experienced trainers give you the individual attention often lost in bigger classes.

We provide a wide experience of training for all levels of international yachting.

Committed to succeed & progress towards the fulfillment of your career ambitions.

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• Master of Yachts

Training towards

Master (Code vessels less than 200gt unlimited area) / Officer of the Watch (Yacht less than 500gt).

Course overview

The course will include all aspects of navigational safety with emphasis on collision regulations; operational safety and responses to emergencies; pollution control and aspects of Master Business and Law.

Pre-requisite experience: Yachtmaster Ocean, Yachtmaster Ocean shore-based and MCA recognised Yachtmaster Ocean certificate of competency, Basic training, GMDSS general operators certificate.

Duration: 6 Days

Examination and assessment:

STCW Master (Code vessels less than 200gt unlimited area) / Officer of the Watch (Yacht less than 500gt).

Certification

The course Completion Certificate must be presented together with proof of 3 months’ sea service on vessels of 15m or more in length before the full certificate can be issued. On sucessful completion of your training, your NOE must be sent to the MCA. It can take up to 6 weeks to be notified of your exam date.

Master 200gt Unlimited / OOW 500gt Unlimited

6 days from.

Fill the form below to Book the course and one of our team members will contact you as soon as we received your booking form:

• Certificates of Competence
• Yachtmaster conversions

Converting between sail and power

Holders of the RYA Yachtmaster® Coastal or Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence in a particular discipline (sail or power) are eligible for a “discount” in terms of the mileage and sea time that is required for the exam in the other discipline.

The exam that will be undertaken by the candidate is a full exam, however the fact that the candidate already holds an RYA Yachtmaster Certificate of Competence in one discipline, means that we can accepted a reduced amount of mileage and sea time in the discipline for which they will now be examined.

The seatime shown below must be in the discipline in which you are to be examined (sail or power). All qualifying seatime must be within 10 years prior to the exam.

Yachtmaster Coastal

• Minimum of 400 miles
• 12 days living on board
• 2 days as skipper
• 12 night hours

Yachtmaster Offshore

• Minimum of 1250 miles
• 25 days living on board
• 3 days as skipper
• 3 passages over 60 miles including 1 overnight and 1 as skipper

It is essential that candidates for any exam be fully conversant with the entire syllabus relating to the relevant type of vessel (sail or motor) and that they have adequate experience to be confident in the capacity of skipper of that type of craft. 

Note: As of 1st July 2021 shortened conversion exams from sail to power and power to sail are no longer available.

IYT Master of Yachts Limited

Master of Yachts 200GT

Find out About the IYT Master of Yachts Limited Course &  Certification

Connect with an IYT Master of Yachts Training Provider Near You

The IYT Master of Yachts Limited is an MCA-recognized commercial Master License for Yachts up to 200 tons limited to 150 nautical miles offshore. It is recognized by various flag states and port authorities around the world and meets the requirements for candidates working towards their Officer of the watch (OOW Yachts 3000GT).

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• IYT Master of Yachts Limited Certification
• Requirements / Prerequisites
• Course Breakdown
• Theory Course
• Practical Course
• Examination
• Find a Training Provider
• IYT's website

IYT Master of Yachts Limited Certification:

The Master of Yachts Limited certificate qualifies you to work as:

• Master of 200-ton vessel up to 150 nautical miles offshore
• Chief Mate of 500-ton vessel up to 150 nautical miles offshore
• Chief Mate of 200-ton vessel all oceans
• OOW (Officer of the Watch) of a 500-ton vessel, all oceans.

Requirements / Prerequisites:

Sea Time Prerequisites:

(Must be obtained on a vessel at least 10m in length)

• Logged 50 days on board a yacht at sea as an active crew member on watch. For the purpose of this requirement, a day is defined as a period of 24 consecutive hours.  The term “at sea” is defined as being on a vessel outside of any harbor – natural or artificial – in which a cruising yacht could secure or anchor for a prolonged period of time.
• Logged 3,000 miles in a yacht while cruising at sea (power or sail). This must be on genuine cruises or passages, not short-day trips.  The candidate must have a considerable time of actual vessel handling.
• 30 hours on watch at night underway as an active member of a yacht’s crew.

Previous Certification & Requirements:

• Candidates should be 18 years of age or older.
• Marine Communications VHF-SRC Radio Operators certificate .
• All STCW Basic Training certificates . STCW certificates must be valid (not expired).*Proficiency in Security Awareness or Proficiency in Designated Duties is also required.*
• A seafarer medical certificate including a colour blindness test in order to ensure the candidate has the ability to perform all bridge duties.

• Candidates are able to sit the shore-based Master of Yachts Limited theory course without meeting the above requirements.
• Candidates can take both power and sail endorsements but must show hands-on practical experience and sea time on both vessel types before attempting the practical exam.

Course Breakdown:

The course consists of a theory course , a practical course , and a final examination .

Completion of the theory course is a prerequisite for the live-practical course, although they do not need to be taken in immediate succession.

*it is recommended that the practical week is taken as soon as possible after the theory week, in order to ensure the information is as fresh as possible.*

Master of Yachts Limited Theory:

This is an intensive 6-day classroom-based course, composed of both lessons, assessment papers, and written examinations. Prior knowledge, study, and practical experience are required and candidates should not expect to learn everything in one week without prior preparations

Theory Course Syllabus:

• Chartwork instruments
• Charts, latitude, and longitude
• Distance, speed, time & direction
• The magnetic compass, variation& deviation
• Position lines and position fixes
• Dead reckoning and estimated positions
• Course to steer to counteract a current
• Meteorology
• Passage planning
• Electronic navigation aids
• International regulations for preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS)
• Ships Construction
• Ship stability & drydocking
• Emergency procedures
• Ships power plant
• General maritime law

IYT Master of Yachts Theory / Shorebased Certificate:

Upon completion of the Master of Yachts Limited Theory / shore-based course, candidates will receive an IYT Master of Yachts Shorebased / Theory Certificate. The written examinations (during the shore-based course) must be passed to the required standard before enrolling in the practical course and examination.

The prerequisites for the practical course and final examination do not need to be met in order to enroll in the theory-based certificate. It can be attended by candidates with less experience should they wish to learn the theory at an early stage.

MOY Practical Course:

During the 5 day practical course, students will be given the opportunity to learn and execute skills and knowledge including areas such as situational awareness, seamanship as well as the ability to command.

Students who have not gained sufficient handling experience prior to the practical course are usually exposed. This is essentially your final preparation for the final examination.

Final Examination:

The final examination consists of a practical and oral examination. Students need to be prepared to be examined on but not limited to anything covered in the theory or practical course. In order to obtain a sail and motor license, the candidate will have to be examined twice, each time on the appropriate vessel type.

Completion of the Master of Yachts Limited Theory & Practical Course does not guarantee that the candidate will pass the final examination.

IYT Master of Yachts Limited Course Provider Locations:

Brazil Sao Paulo

Canada Toronto

France Cannes Cote D'Azur

Saint Maarten

South Africa Cape Town Durban

Sweden Stockholm

Turkey Mugla

United Kingdom Cornwall

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Yacht Crew Training Fort Lauderdale

Marshall islands master & mate, marshall islands 350 gt master & 500 gt mate for the marshall islands 350 gt master & 500 gt mate course you must possess a 200 gt master of yachts or greater., +300 google & facebook reviews 5 stars rating - the favorite among crew, mca officer of the watch, certificates of competency - 500 - 3000 gt training - oow yachts less than 3000 gross tons seven (7) different modules are required for a certificate of competency, your career choice stay the course, experienced & knowledgeable yacht training professional yacht training is the only accredited iyt megayacht training provider in florida, stcw 10 training, international convention of standards of training, certification & watch keeping for seafarers the qualification standards for masters, officers and watch personnel on seagoing merchant ships., mca master modules, certificates of competency - 500 - 3000 gt certificates of competency (coc's) are required in order to command vessels up to 500 gt or 3000 gross tons., mca compliance - oow, officer of the watch - yachts up to 3000 gt accreditation is widely recognized by all major yacht regulatory bureaus, insurance companies, as well as charter & management agencies., professional yacht crew training for careers in yachting, what is stcw training & stcw 10 basic safety.

The International Convention of Standards of Training, Certification and Watch Keeping for Seafarers defines the training necessary for all persons employed at sea. Starting out requires the completion of basic safety training courses which are compulsory requirements for all yacht crew.

STCW Refresher Program (STCW 10 Refresher / Revalidation)

Have You Satisfied the STCW Five Year Requirement – Providing Evidence You Have Maintained the Required Competence in Basic Training? STCW 10 Refresher / Revalidation entry requirements stipulated that you have previously been issued with a STCW certificate (STCW 95). This course is a requirement of the amended STCW 2010.

On-Line Tacht Crew Training Courses

Professional Yacht Training, Fort Lauderdale offers select on-line training courses through our training partner, VIRSEC. From MCA Approved STCW ISPS Maritime Security trainings to Hostile Environment Awareness & Antiterrorism trainings, VIRSEC’s fully online courses are user-friendly, affordable and easily accessible.

We provide the Fort Lauderdale yacht crew training courses you require for MCA compliance and which are widely accepted for the private and commercial operations of both power & sailing yachts up to 3000 gross tons. The accreditation is widely recognized by all major yacht regulatory bureaus, insurance companies, as well as charter & management agencies.

The mca officer of the watch certificate consists of seven different modules ( oow crew training courses ), these are required to be completed for the mca officer of the watch (yachts less than 3000 gt) certificate of competency and are preparation for the mca oral exam..

Fort Lauderdale Yacht Crew Training School

Professional yacht training (pyt usa) offers international yacht training (iyt) for professional and recreational yacht crew. iyt worldwide master of yachts 200gt certificates are mca recognized and essential for working on board a yacht., since its founding in durban, south africa, in the year 2000, pyt has established an enviable reputation and we are delighted to now be able to bring our special approach to the us and offer selected courses in fort lauderdale., pyt reached a milestone in april 2013 when our subsidiary, pyt usa , was granted the license to offer iyt worldwide courses in fort lauderdale , florida thereby allowing us to bring our style of teaching to one of the main centers of the mega yacht industry., yachting careers | yacht jobs, start your yacht crew training in fort lauderdale, florida and work on a yacht.

No Surprises – No Hidden Costs

Your costs are inclusive of exam fees and training boat time.

You receive a commercial-grade certification, not an “endorsed” leisure ticket.

Full MCA approval for 200 ton Masters Certificate.

Fort Lauderdale Training Facilities

Centrally located in the heart of the “yachting capital of the world”.

Within walking distance of crew houses and marinas.

Crew agencies are also just steps away.

Professional & Knowledgeable Staff

Experienced trainers give you the individual attention often lost in bigger classes.

We provide a wide experience of training for all levels of international yachting.

Committed to succeed & progress towards the fulfillment of your career ambitions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)