Yacht Crew Training: Winds Of Change On The Horizon

In 2024, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) will hold a meeting in London that brings together global maritime nations to take up matters concerning the STCW Convention. This convention, which stands for the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, serves as a kind of global constitution for the kinds of training and certification that are to be expected of professional mariners.

The cornerstone of international maritime law is about to see its next big revision.

Yet, the UK MCA is not putting off any implementation of changes while they wait for formal discussions to occur - they are already making some changes that will affect the future direction of the convention.

The clarity of purpose is undeniable: to push nautical education into the contemporary epoch. This scheme accepts the latest tech, all while fitting itself to the modern-day maritime milieu. The shifts, however, are not of the tortoise variety. They are heading for an outcome we can already see: an updated system that directly benefits the unlimited certificate holder; that serves, in a year or so, the future crew of any sailing vessel.

What’s Changing?

Some practices are about to see a big change; they are about to be modernized. Here are a few that fall into the ’traditional’ realm that are about to give way to new, modern approaches:

Outdated Practices Phased Out

• Chart Plotter Transitioning: EP and tidal stream plotting will transition to chart plotters.
• Tidal computations: Secondary port tidal computations will now be based on digital systems such as Total Tides.
• Radar Plotting: While paper plots may still be used to teach principles, they will no longer feature in exams.
• Complex Stability Calculations: The focus will shift to understanding the Ship Stability Information Booklet rather than solving lengthy equations.
• Memory-Based Exams: Business and Law exams will prioritise case studies and practical understanding over rote memorisation.
• Obsolete Communications Equipment: The GMDSS course is being revamped to reflect modern systems.
• Handwritten Exams: New methods of assessment will replace traditional written tests.

Modern Innovations Introduced

• Use of simulators enhanced for the purpose of training and assessing.
• Evaluation will zero in solely on ECS/ECDIS systems.
• E-Learning Solutions: Entirely coherent e-learning units will serve to back not only land-based training but also training that takes place on vessels.
• Trainees will upload proof of their advancement to digital platforms.
• Enabled Learning: The active role assumed by young seafarers in managing their education is more a reflection of their taking charge under the empowered delivery of maritime education and training than it is because they are simply receiving instruction from someone with a hefty title. Quite the opposite is true. Certificated officers are now acting as facilitators.

Keeping You Informed

John Wyborn, Bluewater’s Director, is leading these conversations and giving very valuable insight into the changing training landscape. He and his team make regular updates on all of these discussions and their outcomes available to you via the Bluewater App, so you can be informed and ahead of the curve on all of this.

Now download the Bluewater App to keep yourself updated with the latest progress in yacht crew training and beyond.

Change is upon us. Are you equipped to navigate your course into tomorrow?