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Cyber Security Awareness for Yacht Crew & Staff Online

March 19, 2025 in Professional Training /by Nickie Joy

Cyber Security Awareness Online Course for Yacht Crew & Staff

Increasing the Knowledge of Personal Cyber Security-Related Threats for Yacht Crew & Staff, Including Potential Social Media Breaches, Hacking and ID Theft

An awareness of cyber security-related threats amongst the crew and staff of Superyachts is generally quite poor. This can lead to breaches of security, and open the yacht, personnel, guests and owners to potential cyber security attacks, as well as stealing and misuse of personal data. By providing the crew and staff with an awareness of these threats, especially those connected with social media hacking and ID theft, this will lead to increased security for the company, yacht and personnel involved.

Click Here to Book Cyber Security Awareness for Superyacht Crew & Staff Online Course

About the Course

The ‘Cyber Security Awareness for Yacht Crew & Staff‘ course provides an overview of the cyber threats that exist, risk management, and cyber security compliance for Yachts. The course also looks at issues for crew & staff with social media, then examines the measures that can be taken to mitigate and defend against these types of threats. This course is designed to provide the user an awareness of Maritime Cyber Security issues because ‘cyber security is everyone’s responsibility.’

The Course Aim

The aim of this course, designed by VIRSEC is to provide the crew and staff of a Yacht with the basic knowledge enabling them to secure their personal devices, safeguard personal data, as well as considering on board equipment that may be vulnerable to cyber security threats. The course also introduces measures within the shipboard Safety Management System (SMS) to ensure that the Yacht is resilient to cyber risks.

Course Subjects

The course includes the following subjects:

Course Introduction Area
Cyber Risk Management
The Foundation for IMO 2021
MSC.428(98) Cyber Security Compliance for Superyachts
Compliance Requirements for IMO 2021
Crew Training & Awareness Requirements
Maintaining a Safe & Secure Social Media Environment
Geographical Security for High-Value Assets with a Focus on Cyber Security

Target Audience

This course is aimed at all crew and staff personnel of Superyachts, Motor Yachts & Mega Yachts who access personal social media, websites, and other vulnerable applications through shipboard and personal devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops and desktops. The course is also ideal for guests and owners to appreciate the risks involved, and how to assist in the mitigation of those risks through personal cyber security measures whilst on board the Yacht.

Course Duration

The course lasts for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the learner’s abilities and reading speed. However, you can enter and exit this course as often as you require but you must complete each assessment in one sitting as they will reset if you exit during an assessment phase.

Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for attending this online course.

Crowd Management Training (Passenger Vessels) Online Course

March 19, 2025 in Professional Training /by Nickie Joy

Crowd Management Training (Passenger Vessels) Online Course

Online US Coast Guard (USCG) Approved Course Compliant with STCW Reg. A-V/2, STCW Code (2010): Sect. A-V/2 & A-V/3, and IMO Model Course 1.41

To meet popular demand, VIRSEC, in partnership with US-based Resolve Maritime Academy, has released the fully online United States Coast Guard [USCG] Approved Crowd Management Course. This Online Maritime Training course is based on the guidelines of IMO Model Course 1.41 and STCW Regulation A-V/2 and aims to meet the mandatory minimum requirements for the training of masters, officers, ratings, and other personnel on passenger ships in the STCW Code (2010): Sections A-V/2 & A-V/3.

Click Here to Book USCG Approved Crowd Management Course Online

About the Course

Our Online USCG Approved Online Crowd Management (Passenger Vessels) Course, compliant with IMO Model Course 1.41, provides essential training for maritime personnel responsible for passenger safety in emergency situations. Designed specifically for individuals designated to assist passengers on board, this course covers critical skills in crowd control, emergency preparedness, and effective communication under stress. With a focus on practical response strategies, students learn to manage diverse passenger behaviours, ensure orderly evacuations, and minimise risk to ensure safety at sea. This online, self-paced course offers a flexible, accessible pathway to achieving the mandatory USCG Crowd Management Training certification, empowering crew members with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively in any emergency.

Aims of the Course

The Online USCG Crowd Management Training is STCW Compliant and adheres to the MNTB’s Knowledge, Understanding, and Proficiency (KUP) in the use of all techniques, information, and equipment supplied to deal with an emergency, including familiarisation with all safety aspects of the ship and the ability to effectively communicate with passengers and fully prepare them for an emergency. This course has the following crew training aims:

Control a crowd in an emergency situation on board.
Locate essential safety and emergency equipment on board.
Communicate effectively with passengers during an emergency.
Demonstrate the use of personal life-saving appliances.
Comply with the ship’s safety and emergency procedures.

Target Audience

The Online USCG Approved Crowd Management Training covers the minimum standard of competence for Masters, Chief Mates, Chief Engineers, Second Engineer Officers, and any crew member assigned immediate responsibility for embarking and disembarking passengers. It also includes the essential training for working overseas, including loading, discharging, or securing cargo, closing hull openings, and any person responsible for passengers’ safety in emergencies on ro-ro and non-ro-ro passenger ships, cruise ships, and luxury yachts.

Course Duration

The course lasts approximately 5.5 to 6 hours, depending on the learner’s abilities and reading speed. You can enter and exit this course as often as you require, but the final assessment must be completed in one sitting, as it will reset if you exit during an assessment phase. Please note that this course covers the theory part of the full training, and any physical drills must be conducted when joining your vessel under the supervision of the relevant crew and/or staff.

USCG Course Assessment Requirements

Under USCG Approval, a course assessment is mandatory. This assessment must be invigilated via an Individual Remote Invigilation Session (IRIS) with VIRSEC. This free service is offered Monday through Friday (working days only) at specific times. The course itself covers this in detail, as well as how to arrange your invigilated

Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Awareness for Superyachts Online

March 19, 2025 in Professional Training /by Nickie Joy

Lithium-ion Battery Safety Awareness for Superyachts Online Course

Online ABS Approved, Yacht Crew Maritime Safety Training, Compliant with STCW Reg 1/14-5, Lithium-ion Competent Person (MGN 681), & ISM Code 6.3 & 6.5

The prevalence of lithium-ion batteries is increasing in everyday items such as smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles, as well as in specialised equipment like yachts, power tools, remote controls, UPS systems, servers, personal watercraft, and tenders. While these batteries offer numerous advantages, they also present significant risks. Tailored for yacht crew, officers, captains, and managers, the Lithium-ion Battery Safety Awareness on Yachts course is designed to help participants identify and implement appropriate fire prevention measures and response strategies for battery-related emergencies.

Click Here to Book Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Awareness for Superyachts Online Course

About the Course

Safety awareness regarding lithium-ion batteries on yachts is essential for all yacht crew, personnel, and shoreside managers responsible for vessels equipped with lithium-ion battery-powered tenders, toys, and equipment. Offered entirely online, the course consists of eight concise modules, providing a thorough examination of lithium-ion battery electrochemistry and associated hazards. Emphasising prevention over intervention, the course presents practical best practices to minimise risks associated with lithium-ion technology. This course is conducted in partnership with Seascope France.

Li-ion Competent Person – MGN 681

In their latest MGN 681, the UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency mandated that competent individuals oversee battery charging operations. This course, based on the UK’s Code of Safe Working Practices and MGN 681, elucidates the responsibilities and obligations of these individuals when handling Li-ion batteries. Participants will gain comprehensive knowledge to safely execute battery charging tasks, identify potentially hazardous or faulty batteries, and understand the essential steps to mitigate risks until these batteries are removed from the yacht.

Who Would Benefit from This Course

This course is suitable for individuals engaged in yacht operations seeking to enhance their understanding of Li-ion battery safety. It is particularly beneficial for:

Superyacht crew members utilising Li-ion battery-powered equipment.
Competent Persons tasked with overseeing battery charging operations.
Safety Officers and members of Emergency Response Teams.
Yacht Captains and Officers responsible for ensuring the effective implementation of safe operating protocols for Li-ion batteries.
Yacht Managers entrusted with overseeing and documenting safety protocols related to Li-ion batteries.

Course Learning Objectives

Key learning objectives of this course encompass:

Recognising the locations where lithium-ion batteries may be present on yachts.
Understanding the fundamental electrochemical processes inherent in lithium-ion batteries.
Comprehending the prerequisites for identifying hazards aboard yachts.
Acknowledging the hazardous nature of toxic and explosive gases emitted by Li-ion batteries.
Grasping the risks associated with thermal runaway and battery fires.
Identifying the complexities involved in responding to a thermal runaway incident.
Understanding the effectiveness of water-based fire suppression systems for combating battery fires.
Introducing specialised equipment for containing and extinguishing Li-ion fires.
Identifying instances of battery abuse and hazardous battery defects.
Recognising the requirements for storing batteries safely.
Understanding the protocols for establishing battery charging stations.
Appreciating the knowledge and skills needed by the Competent Person overseeing battery charging operations.

Course Learning Objectives

Key learning objectives of this course encompass:

Recognising the locations where lithium-ion batteries may be present on yachts.
Understanding the fundamental electrochemical processes inherent in lithium-ion batteries.
Comprehending the prerequisites for identifying hazards aboard yachts.
Acknowledging the hazardous nature of toxic and explosive gases emitted by Li-ion batteries.
Grasping the risks associated with thermal runaway and battery fires.
Identifying the complexities involved in responding to a thermal runaway incident.
Understanding the effectiveness of water-based fire suppression systems for combating battery fires.
Introducing specialised equipment for containing and extinguishing Li-ion fires.
Identifying instances of battery abuse and hazardous battery defects.
Recognising the requirements for storing batteries safely.
Understanding the protocols for establishing battery charging stations.
Appreciating the knowledge and skills needed by the Competent Person overseeing battery charging operations.

Compliance Statements

ADHERENCE TO ISM CODE

According to ISM Code 6.3, yacht managers are mandated to establish procedures ensuring personnel, particularly those in safety and environmental roles, are adequately familiarised with their duties. Our course fulfills this requirement by delivering comprehensive training in lithium-ion battery safety, demonstrating a commitment to meeting ISM Code obligations and ensuring personnel are well-versed in safety protocols.

ALIGNMENT WITH ISM CODE 6.5 STANDARDS

ISM Code 6.5 emphasises the importance of identifying and providing necessary training to support safety management systems. The “Lithium-ion Battery Safety Awareness for Superyachts” course aligns with this directive, offering thorough insights into lithium-ion battery safety to equip all personnel with essential training for safe superyacht operations.

COMPLIANCE WITH STCW CONVENTION REGULATION I/14 – 5

STCW Convention Regulation I/14 – 5 underscores the necessity for companies to acquaint seafarers with their duties, ship arrangements, equipment, and relevant procedures. Our course goes beyond theoretical frameworks by imparting practical knowledge essential for handling routine and emergency situations involving lithium-ion batteries. This empowers yacht managers to enhance crew competency in accordance with the STCW Convention.

Course Duration

The course should take you between 7.5 and 8 hours to complete (on average). However, this greatly depends on your reading speed, the ability to retain and recall information and any breaks you take during the learning phase of this course.

STCW’78 Crowd Management & Passenger Safety Online Course

March 18, 2025 in Professional Training /by Nickie Joy

STCW’78 Crowd Management & Passenger Safety Online Course

Liberian Registry (LISCR) Approved STCW’78 Crowd Management & Passenger Safety Training for Crew & Staff Onboard Ships – IMO Model Course 1.41

Good crowd management and control are essential in preventing potential incidents that can occur when many people are gathered together in one place, and there is a capacity for a safety or security-related incident. As passenger ships carry a vast number of people, all members of the ship’s crew and staff need to have an understanding and the ability to assist passengers in any emergency. This includes but is not limited to, controlling passengers in staircases, corridors, and passages, using procedures for preventing panic and other irrational behaviour, and communicating with, instructing, and informing passengers of any situation to mitigate the risk of panic-related responses.

Click Here to Book Liberian Registry Crowd Management & Passenger Safety Online

About the Course

Note: STCW 2010 Code calls for crew to follow approved training in Crisis Management and Human Behaviour, with the training focused on applied psychology for competent assessment of both passenger and crew reactions. To that end, the STCW’78 (as Amended) Crowd Management & Passenger Safety course is required for all personnel designated to assist passengers in an emergency. This Online Maritime Training course is based on the guidelines of IMO Model Course 1.41 and STCW Regulation A-V/2 and aims to meet the mandatory minimum requirements for the training of masters, officers, ratings, and other personnel on passenger ships in STCW Code (2010): Section A-V/2 & A-V/3.

The Aim of the Course

The Crowd Management & Passenger Safety Training course is STCW Compliant. It adheres to the MNTB’s Knowledge, Understanding and Proficiency (KUP) in the use of all techniques, information, and equipment supplied to deal with an emergency, including familiarisation with all safety aspects of the ship and the ability to effectively communicate with passengers and fully prepare them for an emergency.

Target Audience

This course covers the minimum standard of competence for Masters, Chief Mates, Chief Engineers, Second Engineer Officers, and any other member of the crew assigned immediate responsibility for embarking and disembarking passengers, loading, discharging, or securing cargo, or for closing hull openings, and any other person having responsibility for the safety of passengers in emergencies on ro-ro and non-ro-ro passenger ships, cruise ships, and luxury yachts.

Awarding Body

This STCW’78 (as Amended) Crowd Management & Passenger Safety course is fully Approved under the Liberian Registry (LISCR) and is fully compliant with the Standard of Training, Certification & Watchkeeping [STCW].

Course Learning Outcomes

The Passenger Safety Training has the following Learning Outcomes:

Instruct the learner on how to control a crowd in an emergency situation on board.
Instruct the learner on how to locate essential safety and emergency equipment on board.
Instruct the learner on how to communicate effectively with passengers during an emergency.
Inform the learner on the importance of demonstrating the use of personal life-saving appliances.
Inform the learner on the importance of complying with the ship’s safety and emergency procedures.

Course Subjects

The course includes the following subjects:

Introduction to Shipping Legislation
STCW 2010 Requirements
Safer Ship Operation
Life-Saving Appliances and Control Plans
Assembly and Emergency Embarkation
Mustering Procedures
The Psychology of Emergencies
Design and Operational Limitations of the Ship
Operating Hull Openings
Legislation & Codes affecting Ro-Ro Passenger Ships
Stability & Stress Requirements
Special Equipment Maintenance
Loading & Cargo Securing
Dangerous Cargo Areas
Emergency Procedures
Communication
Life-Saving Appliances
Case Studies: Tragedies from Maritime History
Presentation of Past Maritime Tragedies
Analysis of Mistakes Made
Key Learnings & Recommendations

Course Duration

The STCW’78 Crowd Management & Passenger Safety Training duration is approximately 4.5 to 5 hours. A slight variation is allowed for individual reading speeds, but this minimum must be met in order to successfully pass this course. Learners may enter and exit the course as often as they require. Your licence allows you access to the course for up to six months to complete (if required) or upon successful completion of the course.

Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for attending this online course.

STCW Security Awareness (PSA) Online Course for Yachts

March 18, 2025 in Professional Training /by Nickie Joy

STCW Security Awareness (PSA) Online Course for Yachts

Online MCA Approved Maritime Security (ISPS) Course for Crew & Staff of Superyachts, Motor Yachts, Mega Yachts, & Giga Yachts Without Security-Related Duties (IMO Model Course 3.27)

In line with the International Ship & Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, it is mandatory for crew and staff on vessels adhering to the Code to undergo basic awareness training on the yacht’s security arrangements, in accordance with the Maritime Security Levels specified in the Ship Security Plan. This training is designed for crewmembers and staff who do not have direct security responsibilities on board the yacht but need to grasp the significance and application of related security measures.

Click Here to Book MCA Approved (STCW ISPS) PSA Course for Superyachts Online

About the Course

This fully online, ISPS Code-compliant, MCA-Approved (STCW ISPS) Proficiency in Security Awareness (PSA) Course for Yachts, sometimes referred to as a Vessel Security Awareness (VSA) Course serves as the necessary mandatory minimum security-related training requirement under STCW ISPS for Superyacht, Motor Yacht, Mega Yacht, or Giga Yacht crew or staff who are not assigned specific designated security duties onboard. The course equips learners with the essential knowledge to fulfil the mandated instruction according to STCW, the MNTB KUPs, the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) guidelines, and IMO Model Course 3.27.

Vessel-Tailored Security Awareness Course

The online Security Awareness (PSA) Course for Yachts has been specifically tailored for crew and staff working on Superyachts, Motor Yachts, Mega Yachts, or Giga Yachts. We also provide customised versions of the Security Awareness Course for the Cargo Ship Sector and Cruise Ship Sector.

The Aim of the Course

To ensure all personnel aboard the yacht who are not specifically assigned security duties receive comprehensive education and training that meets the Knowledge, Understanding, and Proficiency (KUP) standards specified in STCW Table A-VI/6-1. This training supports Chapter XI-2 of the annex to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) 1974, as amended, and the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. It is mandatory for all seafarers employed or engaged on vessels required to adhere to the ISPS Code to complete the Proficiency in Security Awareness (PSA) Course for Yachts.

Awarding Body

The online Security Awareness (PSA) Course for Yachts is fully approved by the UK Department for Transport Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) and is internationally recognised and accepted. It adheres to the 2010 Manila Amendments and complies with the requirements of Section A-VI/6, paragraph 4 of the STCW Convention and Code, as well as Table A-VI/6-1.

Course Learning Outcomes

The online Proficiency in Security Awareness (PSA) Course for Yachts Approved under the UK DfT MCA supports the Learning Outcomes as established under the Merchant Navy Training Board [MNTB].

Be aware of the importance of ship security and the roles of those involved in its provision.
Be aware of the requirements and measures to maintain ship security.
Be able to recognise and report a security threat.

Course Subjects

The PSA Course for Yachts Crew & Staff includes the following subjects:

A working knowledge of Maritime Security Terms and Definitions, including those that relate to Maritime Piracy and Armed Robbery against Shipping.
An understanding of International Maritime Security Policy.
An understanding of the Maritime Security (MARSEC) Levels and their impact on security measures and procedures aboard ship and in port facilities.
How to report a security incident
An understanding of security-related contingency plans.
How to recognise security threats, including Maritime Piracy and Armed Robbery against Shipping.
How to recognise weapons, dangerous substances and devices and an understanding of the damage they can cause.
The importance of information security with regards to Sensitive Security-Related Information (SSRI) and Communications.
An understanding of the importance of security related drills and exercises including those relating to Anti-Piracy and Anti -Armed Robbery.

Course Duration

The online Security Awareness (PSA) Course takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours to complete. While there is some flexibility to account for individual reading speeds, the minimum required duration must be met, along with successful completion of the official assessments, to successfully complete the course. This is a mandatory requirement set by the MCA.

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites for attending this online PSA Course for Yachts.

STCW Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Online Course for Yachts

March 18, 2025 in Professional Training /by Nickie Joy

STCW Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Online Course for Yachts

Online MCA Approved Maritime Security (ISPS) Course for Crew & Staff of Superyachts, Motor Yachts, Mega Yachts, & Giga Yachts with Security-Related Duties (IMO Model Course 3.26)

The fully online, STCW Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course for Superyachts, Motor Yachts, Mega Yachts, and Giga Yachts is for those seafarers undertaking security-related duties onboard a yacht with the training deemed necessary to conduct these duties proficiently and to a professional standard. This online course meets with Knowledge, Understanding and Proficiency (KUP) requirements set out in STCW Table A-VI/6-2, supporting Chapter XI-2 of the Annex to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) 1974, as amended, and the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

Click Here to Book MCA Approved (STCW ISPS) PDSD Course for Superyachts Online

About the Course

The fully online UK DfT Maritime & Coastguard Agency (STCW ISPS) Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course for Yachts, also known as a Vessel Security Duties (VSD) Course, is a mandatory training prerequisite under STCW for members of a vessels Crew or Staff who report to the Ship Security Officer and have been assigned specific security responsibilities onboard the ship. The course equips learners with the necessary knowledge to meet mandated instruction requirements under STCW, the MNTB KUPs, IMO Model Course 3.26, and the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) guidelines.

Vessel-Tailored Course

The online Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course for Yachts has been customised exclusively for crew and staff operating aboard Superyachts, Motor yachts, and Mega Yachts. Additionally, we also offer tailored versions of the Designated Security Duties Course designed for the Cargo Ship Sector and Cruise Ship Sector.

The Aim of the Course

The purpose of this online Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course for Yachts (Vessel Security Duties or VSD) Course is to provide essential education and training for individuals assigned specific security responsibilities on board. It ensures they meet the Knowledge, Understanding, and Proficiency (KUP) standards outlined in STCW Table A-VI/6-2, in accordance with Chapter XI-2 of the annex to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) 1974, as amended, and the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

Awarding Body

The online Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course for Yachts has received Approval from the UK DfT Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) and is internationally acknowledged and accepted. It incorporates the 2010 Manila Amendments and conforms to the specifications outlined in Section A-VI/6, paragraphs 6 to 8 of the STCW Convention and Code, along with Table A-VI/6-2.

Course Learning Outcomes

The online Proficiency in Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course for Yachts approved by the UK DfT MCA aligns with the Learning Outcomes established by the Merchant Navy Training Board [MNTB].

Know why ship security is important and knows the roles and responsibilities of the organisations and individuals involved.
Know what constitutes a security risk, threat and vulnerability to the ship, its personnel, cargo, and operations.
Understand the capabilities and limitations of security methods, equipment, and systems.
Know how to maintain the measures in a ship security plan and related requirements.
Maintain the effectiveness of security arrangements, procedures, and equipment at the three security levels, considering their limitations.

Course Subjects

The course includes the following subjects:

The Development of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code.
Understand the relevant international conventions, codes and recommendations relating to Maritime Piracy & Armed Robbery against Shipping.
Understand the roles and responsibilities of relevant bodies and organisations.
The roles and responsibilities of Contracting Governments, Designated Authorities, and Recognised Security Organisations.
The Security Roles & Responsibilities of Crew and Port Security Personnel.
Measures and Procedures for Maritime Security [MARSEC] Levels.
Recognition of weapons, dangerous substances, and devices.
Recognition of persons who may pose a threat to the security of the ship.
Identifying techniques used to circumvent security measures.
The handling of Sensitive Security-Related Information [SSRI] and Communications.
Identifying security threats including Maritime Piracy & Armed Robbery against Shipping.
Security methods, equipment & systems.
Security monitoring, monitoring equipment & systems.
The Ship Security Alert System [SSAS].
The Ship Security Plan [SSP].
The provisions for maintaining security.
Criteria for setting Maritime Security [MARSEC] Levels under the ISPS Code.
Actions to prevent weapons, dangerous substances and devices being brought on board.
Guidance and measure for Anti-Piracy and Anti-Armed Robbery.
Responses to Emergency Situations including Maritime Piracy & Armed Robbery against Shipping.
Physical Searches & Non-Intrusive Inspections.
Crowd Management & Control Requirements.
Emergency Drills & Exercises.

Course Duration

The acceptable course duration for the online Designated Security Duties (PDSD) Course for Yachts is 7 to 8 hours. This time variance has been allowed to accommodate the different reading speeds of learners. However, the minimum time requirement must be met along with passing the official assessments to finish the course. This is a mandatory stipulation of taking this MCA Approved course.

Prerequisites of Attendance

There are no pre-requisites for attending this online PDSD Course.

STCW Ship Security Officer (SSO) Online Course for Yachts

March 18, 2025 in Professional Training /by Nickie Joy

STCW Ship Security Officer (SSO) Online Course for Yachts

Online MCA Approved Maritime Security (ISPS) Course for Potential SSO’s of Luxury Superyachts, Motor Yachts, Mega Yachts, & Giga Yachts (IMO Model Course 3.19)

The objective of this online course for Ship Security Officer (SSO) or Vessel Security Officer (VSO) certification is to offer comprehensive education and training to individuals aspiring to become Ship Security Officers. It is designed to meet the Knowledge, Understanding, and Proficiency (KUP) standards specified in the 2010 Manila Amendments. This ensures that crew members assigned to the role of Ship Security Officer comply with the relevant ISPS Code regulations.

Click Here to Book MCA Approved (STCW ISPS) SSO Course for Superyachts Online

About the Course

The fully online UK DfT Maritime & Coastguard Agency (STCW ISPS) Proficiency as Ship Security Officer (SSO) Course is a training requirement under STCW for those Yacht Crew who aspire to assume the role of Ship Security Officer or SSO. The SSO carries responsibility for implementing appropriate security measures aboard the vessel, in accordance with the Ship Security Plan (SSP) under the ISPS Code. The SSO also oversees the implementation of security measures outlined within the Ship Security Plan (SSP) whenever the yacht is in transit or docked.

Ship Security Officers are entrusted with the maintaining of the Ship Security Plan, and must ensure that all staff and crew members, especially those crew or staff who have been tasked with Designated Security Duties, fulfil their security requirements onboard the yacht. The SSO course provides learners with the necessary instruction to meet with the mandated requirements under the MNTB KUPs, STCW, IMO Model Course 3.19, and the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA).

Customised Training for Other Vessel Types

This online Ship Security Officer (SSO) course has been specifically tailored for crew and personnel working on Superyachts, Motor Yachts, Mega Yachts, and Giga Yachts. Furthermore, we offer specialised versions of the Ship Security Officer Course, customised for the Cargo Ship Sector and Cruise Ship Sector.

The Aim of the Course

The purpose of this online Ship Security Officer (SSO) Course for Yachts is to provide individuals pursuing a Ship Security Officer certification with the necessary education and training. The course aligns with the Knowledge, Understanding, and Proficiency (KUP) standards outlined in STCW Table A-VI/5, which supports Chapter XI-2 of the annex to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) 1974, as amended, along with the requirements of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

Awarding Body

The online Proficiency as Ship Security Officer (SSO) Course for Yachts is fully approved by the UK Department for Transport’s Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) and holds international recognition and acceptance. The MCA is also included on the IMO Whitelist. This course adheres to the 2010 Manila Amendments and complies with the requirements set forth in Section A-VI/5, paragraphs 1 to 4, of the STCW Convention and Code. It also follows the recommendations outlined in Section B-VI/5 of the Code and Table A-VI/5.

Course Learning Outcomes

The online Proficiency as Ship Security Officer (SSO) Course for Yachts, fully Approved under the UK DfT MCA adheres to the Learning Outcomes as detailed by the Merchant Navy Training Board (MNTB).

The learner understands the importance of ship security and the roles and responsibilities of organisations and individuals involved in it.
The learner knows how to assess security risk, threat and vulnerability to the ship, its personnel, cargo, and operations.
The learner understands the capabilities and limitations of security methods, equipment, and systems.
The learner knows how to implement a Ship Security Plan and related regulatory requirements.
The learner knows how to determine the effectiveness of current security arrangements, procedures, and equipment.
The learner understands how to promote security awareness and vigilance on board ship.

Course Subjects

The course includes the following subjects:

The Development of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code.
Understand the roles and responsibilities of relevant bodies and organisations.
The roles and responsibilities of Contracting Governments, Designated Authorities, and Recognised Security Organisations.
The Security Roles & Responsibilities of Crew and Port Security Personnel.
Measures and Procedures for Maritime Security [MARSEC] Levels.
Recognition of weapons, dangerous substances, and devices.
Recognition of persons who may pose a threat to the security of the ship.
Identifying techniques used to circumvent security measures.
The handling of Sensitive Security-Related Information [SSRI] and Communications.
Identifying security threats including Maritime Piracy & Armed Robbery against Shipping.
Declarations of Security [DoS].
The On-Scene Security Survey.
The Ship Security Assessment [SSA].
The Ship Security Plan [SSP].
The provisions for maintaining security.
Criteria for setting Maritime Security [MARSEC] levels under the ISPS Code.
Actions to prevent weapons, dangerous substances and devices being brought on board.
Guidance and measure for Anti-Piracy and Anti-Armed Robbery.
Responses to Emergency Situations including Maritime Piracy & Armed Robbery against Shipping.
Physical Searches & Non-Intrusive Inspections.
Crowd Management & Control Requirements.
Crew Training, Emergency Drills & Exercises.
European Commission [DG MOVE] and European Maritime Safety Agency.
Port and Flag States.
UK DfT Maritime Security and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).
Recognised Security Organisations and limitations in their use.
The Shipping Company.
Masters Authority and Discretion for Ship Safety and Security.
Authority of the Duly Authorised Officer [DAO].
The legal implications for seafarers and security personnel.
The requirement for the provision of the ship identification number [SIN], Automatic Identification System [AIS], Ship Security Alert System [SSAS] and Long-Range Identification and Tracking [LRIT].
The purpose and control of the continuous synopsis record [CSR].
The purpose and use of the Long-Range Identification and Tracking [LRIT].

Course Duration

The online Ship Security Officer (SSO) Course for Yachts is 19 to 21 hours in duration, generally depending on the learner’s reading, learning, and retention abilities. This minimum time must be met, and the associated assessment passed in order to complete this course. This is a mandatory requirement under the UK DfT Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA).

Prerequisites of Attedance

The Maritime & Coastguard Agency [MCA] regulations state that individuals who are interested in enrolling onto the SSO Course must possess either 12 months of provable sea service time or, at the discretion of the MCA, suitable sea service (being a minimum of 3 months) and familiarity with ship operations to effectively meet the listed learning objectives. By enrolling in this course, you confirm that you do meet with the minimum pre-requisites.