The Guide to Yacht Crew Certifications

Regardless of their role, all yacht crew members must obtain certain baseline qualifications to work legally and safely on yachts.

STCW Basic Safety Training

The STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) Basic Safety Training is mandatory for most yacht crew. This course includes:
• Personal Survival Techniques (PST)
• Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting
• Elementary First Aid (EFA)
• Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR)

Prerequisites: Must be at least 16 years old. No prior experience is needed.

Pathway: Enroll in a certified STCW training provider. The course takes about five days and includes theoretical and practical components.

ENG1 Medical Certificate

The ENG1 is a seafarer medical certificate that confirms a crew member’s fitness to work at sea.

Prerequisites: None. Candidates must pass a physical examination by an MCA-approved doctor.

Pathway: Book an appointment with an approved doctor and renew every two years.

Food Safety & Hygiene Certificate (Level 2 or 3)

Crew handling food and beverages must understand food safety standards.

Prerequisites: None for Level 2. Level 2 certification is required for Level 3.

Pathway: Complete an online or in-person course, which usually takes one or two days.

Deck Crew Certifications

Deck crew manage yacht operations, navigation, and maintenance. Their certifications ensure safe handling of the vessel and its equipment.

Powerboat Level 2 (RYA or Equivalent)

This certification is essential for crew operating small powerboats or tenders.

Prerequisites: None, but basic boating familiarity is recommended.

Pathway: A two-day practical course covering boat handling, safety, and navigation.

Yachtmaster Offshore/Coastal (RYA)

For captains or senior deckhands managing yachts up to 200 GT, the Yachtmaster certification is vital.

Prerequisites:
• RYA Day Skipper certification
• 2,500 nautical miles and five passages over 60 nm
• Logged night hours

Pathway: Complete theory and practical training, then pass an exam with an RYA examiner.

Officer of the Watch (OOW)

The OOW certificate is essential for deck officers or second officers on larger yachts.

Prerequisites:
• STCW Advanced Safety Training
• 36 months of sea time, including 12 months as a deck officer

Pathway: Complete modules such as Navigation, Radar, and GMDSS (radio operations) and pass MCA-approved exams.

Efficient Deckhand (EDH)

The EDH is a stepping stone for further deck officer qualifications.

Prerequisites:
• Six months of sea time
• Powerboat Level 2 or equivalent

Pathway: A five-day course covering practical seamanship and deck operations.

Engineering Crew Certifications

Engineering crew are responsible for maintaining the yacht’s mechanical systems, ensuring smooth operations at sea.

Approved Engine Course (AEC 1 & 2)

This course is the starting point for aspiring yacht engineers.
Prerequisites: None for AEC 1. AEC 1 is required for AEC 2.

Pathway:
• AEC 1: Five-day course on basic engine maintenance and systems.
• AEC 2: Five-day advanced course focusing on troubleshooting and diagnostics.

Yacht Engineer Qualifications (Y1–Y4)

These qualifications are tiered, with Y1 being the highest level for chief engineers on large yachts.

Prerequisites:
• Progression through levels requires sea time and prior certifications (e.g., Y4 for entry-level, Y3 for intermediate, and so on).

Pathway:
• Attend MCA-approved training programs for each level.
• Pass written exams and oral interviews.

Marine Engine Operator License (MEOL)

The MEOL is required for engineers managing engines up to 750 kW.

Prerequisites:
• 30 months of sea time
• STCW Basic Safety Training and AEC 1 or equivalent

Pathway: Classroom-based training followed by MCA oral and written exams.

Interior Crew Certifications

Interior crew ensure that the luxury and comfort standards of the yacht are met, often focusing on service, housekeeping, and guest experience.

GUEST Program Certifications

The GUEST (Guidelines for Unified Excellence in Service Training) program offers modular training for interior crew.
Prerequisites: None, though hospitality experience is beneficial.

Pathway:
• Entry-Level: Basic housekeeping, laundry, and service.
• Advanced-Level: Modules like Silver Service, Bartending, and Wine Knowledge.

Floristry and Table Decoration Courses

These courses teach interior crew to enhance the yacht’s ambiance.
Prerequisites: None.

Pathway: Attend 1–3 day workshops focused on creative table settings and floral arrangements.

Chef Certifications

Chefs on yachts prepare gourmet meals and accommodate various dietary preferences, often with limited resources. A recognized culinary qualification is a must for yacht chefs.
Prerequisites: None for entry-level programs.

Pathway: Enroll in a culinary school or apprenticeship program (6 months to 2 years)

Ship’s Cook Certificate

This certification is mandatory for yachts with 10+ crew.

Prerequisites:
• Culinary Arts Diploma
• One month of sea service

Pathway: Attend a five-day training program certified by the MCA.

Specialist Certifications

Yacht operations often require additional expertise in areas like diving, watersports, or security.

PADI Divemaster/Instructor Certification

Prerequisites:
• PADI Open Water Diver and Advanced certifications
• Logged dives (40 for Divemaster, 60 for Instructor)

Pathway: Complete Divemaster training (7–14 days) or instructor training (2 weeks).

Proficiency as Ship Security Officer (SSO)

Prerequisites:
• OOW or Master certification

Pathway: Attend a three-day course on maritime security management.

Conclusion

Operating or working on a yacht is a rewarding but demanding career, especially in premier yachting destinations like Croatia. Acquiring the necessary yacht certificates and qualifications not only ensures compliance with maritime regulations but also enhances the crew’s ability to deliver a world-class experience.