What is the STCW Course For? A Complete Guide for Aspiring Seafarers

If you’re considering a career in the merchant navy or want to work aboard ships internationally, you’ve probably heard of STCW certification. But what exactly is the STCW course, why is it essential, and how can you pursue it from a trusted DG Shipping approved institute in Mumbai like Training Ship Varren?

This comprehensive blog covers everything you need to know—from STCW course names, duration and fees, to who needs it, and where you can take the STCW course near you.

What is the STCW Course About?

STCW stands for Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers. It is a set of international regulations created by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to ensure that all crew members on board are trained to a globally recognized standard.

These courses equip seafarers with life-saving skills, safety practices, and knowledge about handling emergencies on ships. Without STCW certification, you cannot legally work at sea—whether you’re a deck cadet, engine cadet, steward, or officer.

What is the Main Purpose of STCW?

The main aim of STCW courses is to enhance the safety of life at sea, protect the marine environment, and establish uniform training standards. STCW training ensures that all maritime personnel have:

• Knowledge of personal survival and safety

• First aid and emergency response skills

• Fire prevention and firefighting techniques

• Familiarity with security procedures onboard

It’s not just about theoretical knowledge—it’s about hands-on practical training, simulation drills, and real-world safety preparation.

STCW 5 Course Names – Basic Safety Courses You Must Take

The Basic STCW Safety Training package consists of five essential courses, all of which are mandatory for first-time seafarers:

1. Personal Survival Techniques (PST)
   Learn how to survive at sea in the event of an emergency, including lifeboat launching and using life-saving appliances.

2. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (FPFF)
   Covers techniques to prevent and combat onboard fires using different firefighting equipment and safety procedures.

3. Elementary First Aid (EFA)
   Teaches basic medical skills such as CPR, bandaging, and emergency response.

4. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (PSSR)
   Focuses on life at sea, teamwork, shipboard responsibilities, and following safe practices.

5. Security Training for Seafarers with Designated Security Duties (STSDSD)
   Designed to equip crew members with knowledge about maritime security threats and protective measures.

✅ These are the minimum requirements to begin a career at sea.

STCW Courses List – Advanced and Specialized Modules

While the above five courses are mandatory for beginners, professionals working in more specialized or senior positions need advanced STCW training. Here’s a detailed STCW courses list:

✅ Basic STCW Courses:

• Personal Survival Techniques (PST)

• Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (FPFF)

• Elementary First Aid (EFA)

• Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (PSSR)

• Security Training for Seafarers (STSDSD)

✅ Advanced STCW Courses:

• Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF)

• Medical First Aid

• Medical Care

• Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats (PSCRB)

• Ship Security Officer (SSO)

• Radar Observer and ARPA Training

• ECDIS – Electronic Chart Display and Information System

Training Ship Varren offers certified advanced training programs through industry experts and state-of-the-art facilities.

STCW Course Duration and Fees

At Training Ship Varren, we aim to deliver quality maritime education at affordable rates. Here’s what to expect:

• Duration:
  Basic STCW courses typically take 10–12 working days. Advanced courses may require additional time based on the module.

• Fees:
  STCW course fees in Mumbai range from ₹10,000 to ₹25,000 for the full package of basic training. Individual course fees vary from ₹2,500 to ₹6,000.

💡 You can contact our admission desk for the latest fee structure and upcoming batch schedules.
📞 Toll-Free: 1800 268 2891

STCW Certificates List – What Will You Receive?

After successfully completing each module, you’ll receive a DG Shipping approved certificate. These are essential documents for applying for jobs on ships and for verification during port inspections.

Here’s what’s included in the STCW certificates list:

• PST Certificate

• FPFF Certificate

• EFA Certificate

• PSSR Certificate

• STSDSD Certificate

All certificates are issued as per IMO and DG Shipping guidelines and are valid for 5 years. You will need to undergo refresher courses upon expiry.

Who Needs STCW Certification?

If you fall into any of the following categories, you must undergo STCW training:

• Freshers aiming to join the merchant navy or cruise liners

• Experienced seafarers looking to renew or upgrade their certifications

• Officers and crew on passenger, cargo, and offshore vessels

• Hospitality staff working on cruise ships

• Security personnel posted on ship

  🚢 Whether you’re an engineer, deck officer, steward, or support crew—STCW is your entry pass to the shipping world.
  

What is the STCW Course For in India?

In India, the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) mandates STCW training for all seafarers. Without these certifications, you cannot join a ship under the Indian flag or sail under any international shipping company.

By enrolling at a DG Shipping approved institute like Training Ship Varren, you ensure your certificate is valid for all national and international employers.

Looking for an STCW Course Near Me?

If you’re based in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, or Thane, you’re just minutes away from one of the best STCW institutes in India.

📍 Training Ship Varren 1st Floor, Additional Shop Cum Godown Complex,
APMC Complex, Y-A, APMC Market 2, Phase 2,
Sector 19B, Vashi, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 400703
📞 Toll-Free: 1800 268 2891
🌐 www.trainingshipvarren.com
🎓 View All Courses

Why Choose Training Ship Varren?

• ✅ DG Shipping Approved

• ✅ 100% Placement Assistance

• ✅ Experienced Maritime Faculty

• ✅ Hands-on Practical Training

• ✅ Flexible Batches and Affordable Fees

We don’t just offer certifications—we build careers in the maritime industry.

To sum up, the STCW course is the first step toward your maritime journey. It prepares you for emergencies, equips you with life-saving skills, and makes you eligible to work onboard national and international vessels. With Training Ship Varren, your dream of joining the merchant navy begins with confidence, clarity, and credibility.

⚓ Get certified. Get onboard. Set sail with Training Ship Varren.

 

• FAQ
  

1. Is STCW training valid internationally, and how often must it be renewed?

Answer:
Yes, STCW certification is IMO-recognized and valid worldwide. Basic certificates like PST, PSSR, FPFF, and EFA must be refreshed every 5 years, especially if you haven’t served at sea for 12 months in the last 5 years.

2. Can I do STCW training online, or is it compulsory to attend in person?

Answer:
While theoretical parts may be available online in some countries, DG Shipping (India) mandates physical attendance for both theoretical and practical modules. This ensures hands-on experience, especially in firefighting and survival drills.

3. How does STCW training align with employment on cruise ships vs. merchant vessels?

Answer:
Both sectors require STCW certification. However, cruise lines may additionally demand crowd management and passenger safety training as per STCW A-V/2. Merchant navy jobs usually stick to the core STCW modules unless advanced duties are involved.

4. What happens if I work without STCW certification?

Answer:
Working without valid STCW training is illegal and unsafe. You may face hefty fines, disqualification from maritime employment, and ships could be detained during port inspections (PSC), affecting the employer and the crew.