Advanced first aid for commercial vessels. Be the ship’s designated medical officer.
4 Days
07 SEP 2026
Certification
MCA
Who issues your official qualification
Recognition
Worldwide
Where your certificate is accepted. Check with your flag state for specific approvals.
STCW Compliance
A-VI/3
Legal codes this course fulfills under maritime law
Suitable For
Senior deck crew
Who the course is designed for
Experience Level
Sea service required
Minimum experience needed to join
Duration
4 Days
Training days only, breaks are not included
Certificate Validity
5 Years
How long your certificate stays valid
Why This
Course Matters
Required for deck and engineering officers applying for Certificates of Competency or in charge of onboard fire operations. It’s a core safety requirement for senior crew roles and a vital step in the STCW certification pathway.
What You’ll
Learn
Advanced Fire Control & Command
Develop decision-making, communication, and coordination skills in managing fire emergencies and leading fire teams.
Live Fire & Breathing Apparatus Drills
Participate in high-intensity, realistic fire scenarios using breathing apparatus, hoses, nozzles, and casualty rescue equipment.
Fire Investigation & Equipment Maintenance
Gain skills in inspecting, maintaining and operating detection systems, extinguishers, and fixed installations, plus compiling incident reports.
Tactics, Stability & Dangerous Goods
Understand firefighting strategy, the impact on vessel stability, and dealing with hazardous cargo or shipboard conditions.
0
100
What’s Included
Professional-grade firefighting equipment
Comprehensive course materials
Daily hot lunch
Coffee station and snacks
Shower and towels
Free rescheduling up to 7 days before course start
PREREQUSITES
Minimum age
18 years old
Valid Fire Prevention & Fire Fighting (A-VI/1-2) certificate required
Certificate must be issued by a maritime authority of an IMO White List country
If FPFF is expired, candidate must complete a Fire Prevention & Fire Fighting Updating Course (A-VI/1-2 Refresher) before enrolling
Meet Your
Instructors
Frequently
Asked Questions
What is the Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF) course?
Advanced Fire Fighting is an STCW advanced safety course for officers and senior crew who are expected to take command during fire emergencies onboard. It focuses on leadership, coordination, and decision-making in complex fire situations at sea.
Who is required to hold an Advanced Fire Fighting certificate?
AFF is required for officers and senior crew with designated fire-fighting leadership responsibilities, including OOW, Chief Mate, Master, and senior yacht crew on larger or commercially operated vessels.
Is this course MCA-approved and internationally recognised?
Yes. The course is delivered in accordance with Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) requirements and complies with STCW 2010 Manila Amendments. MCA approval makes it widely recognised and respected by flag states, yacht operators, and insurers worldwide.
Is there an exam for Advanced Fire Fighting?
Yes. The course includes a written exam covering fire science, command structure, emergency planning, and advanced firefighting strategy. The exam focuses on applied understanding rather than memorisation.
Is there a practical assessment?
Yes. You will be assessed during advanced live-fire scenarios, including team leadership, use of breathing apparatus, boundary cooling, casualty management, and coordination of fire response under pressure.
What happens if I fail the exam or practical assessment?
If you do not meet the required standard, you are allowed a resit. Instructors will explain what needs improvement before reassessment. The aim is to ensure safe command-level competence.
How important is English for the AFF course?
English is essential — both written and verbal. You must understand complex briefings, issue clear commands during scenarios, and complete written exams in English. Leadership and communication are core parts of this course.
Do I need prior firefighting training before taking AFF?
Yes. You must already hold STCW Fire Prevention & Fire Fighting (FPFF) or equivalent. Advanced Fire Fighting builds on prior knowledge and assumes familiarity with basic firefighting procedures.
How long is the Advanced Fire Fighting certificate valid?
The Advanced Fire Fighting certificate is valid for five years. To remain compliant, officers must complete an MCA-approved refresher or meet revalidation requirements before expiry.