STCW10 Basic
Safety Training

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/1-1, A-VI/1-2, A-VI/1-3, A-VI/1-4, A-VI/6-1
Legal codes this course fulfills under maritime law
Suitable For
All Crew
Who the course is designed for
Experience Level
No experience required
Minimum experience needed to join
Duration
5 Days
Training days only, breaks are not included
Certificate Validity
5 Years
How long your certificate stays valid

Why This
Course Matters

The complete STCW Basic Safety Training is mandatory for all yacht and commercial vessel crew worldwide. This internationally recognised certification is your passport to maritime employment, ensuring you meet essential safety and security standards required by law.

Career
growth
& Salary Impact

Maritime training opens the door to high-paying roles at sea, with entry-level crew earning $2,000–$4,000/month and fast progression. Whether you come from hospitality, trades, engineering, fitness, security or technical support, certified roles offer global travel, strong salaries, and long-term career growth.

Current Role With this certification
Junior Engineer +$2,000
Maintenance Fitter
Superyacht Deckhand +$3,500
Yoga Instructor
Cruise Ship Steward +$2,800
Hotel Worker

What You’ll
Learn

Personal Survival Techniques (STCW A-VI/1-1)

Essential prevention and survival techniques through theoretical and practical sessions. Includes distress prevention, life-saving equipment, liferaft deployment, survival skills and search and rescue procedures.

Fire Fighting and Fire Prevention (STCW A-VI/1-2)

Comprehensive training on fire risk minimisation, causes, and containment strategies. Features practical exercises with fire fighting equipment and breathing apparatus for both combating fires and rescue operations.

Elementary First Aid (STCW A-VI/1-3)

Practical and theoretical training in basic medical emergency response. Covers essential first aid principles and techniques for the most common maritime medical emergencies.

Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (STCW A-VI/1-4)

Classroom-based introduction to safety protocols, accident prevention, and shipboard working conditions for seafarers.

Proficiency in Security Awareness (STCW A-VI/6-1)

Essential security training required for all personnel working on ISPS-compliant vessels, providing knowledge and understanding for crew without designated security duties.

0
100

PREREQUSITES

PREREQUSITES
Minimum age

16 years old

Language Requirement

A good level of spoken and written English is required, as all training and assessments are conducted in English

Meet Your
Instructors

Tom Sebastian
Chief Instructor, Fire, Safety & Survival

With Galileo for 10 years, Tom brings extensive experience from commercial and cruise ships. His BSc in Management coupled with IMO certification ensures practical, engaging instruction based on real-world scenarios.

Shemaine Sebastian
Chief Instructor, Health & Safety

A qualified nurse with maritime experience as Safety Officer on cruise ships, Shemaine joined Galileo in 2014. Her medical background and IMO certification make her an expert instructor for medical and safety courses.

Garrod Hutchison
Head of School of Marine Engineering

Over 45 years’ maritime experience including Royal Navy service aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia. Former Superyacht Chief Engineer with extensive technical instruction expertise.

Frequently

Asked Questions

What is STCW 2010 and why do I need it?

STCW is the international safety standard for seafarers, updated under the STCW 2010 Manila Amendments. It’s required for crew working on commercial vessels and yachts (typically 24m+). Most employers and crew agencies won’t consider candidates without valid STCW certificates.

What does MCA stand for and why is it important?

MCA stands for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, the UK’s maritime regulatory authority. MCA certification is considered a gold standard in the yachting and commercial maritime industry due to its strict training, assessment, and safety requirements. MCA-approved courses are highly respected by flag states, yacht owners, captains, and insurers worldwide, which is why many employers specifically ask for MCA-compliant certification.

What modules are included in Basic STCW?

Basic STCW includes five core modules: PST, FPFF, EFA, PSSR, PSA. Together they cover sea survival, fire safety, first aid, safety responsibilities, and onboard security awareness — the essentials for working at sea.

Will there be exams?

Yes. There is a written test after each module, and you’ll also be assessed during practical sessions. The written tests check understanding of key safety procedures and decision-making, not “trick questions”.

Is there a practical assessment?

Yes. Practical sessions are assessed as you go — instructors observe your ability to follow procedures safely (e.g., fire drills, survival exercises, first aid scenarios). It’s about competence and safety, not athletic performance.

What happens if I fail a written test or assessment?

If you don’t pass a test or fall short on a practical element, you can take a resit. The goal is to ensure you meet the required standard — not to catch you out. Your instructor will explain what needs improving before you retake it.

How important is English for this course?

English is important — both written and verbal. You need to understand safety instructions during practical training and be able to complete the written tests. If you’re worried about your English level, tell Admissions in advance so we can advise on the best approach.

What should I bring and wear for STCW training?

You should wear comfortable clothing suitable for practical training and closed shoes.
For firefighting modules, bring long socks that cover your legs up to the knees to provide extra protection when wearing firefighting gear.
For survival and water-based sessions, long pants are mandatory for safety reasons — students without suitable long pants will not be allowed to participate in practical exercises. Bring a change of clothes and personal toiletries.

Do we actually go into the water and do live fire training?

Yes. The course includes real practical drills, including water survival exercises and firefighting training. Everything is supervised, controlled, and delivered with safety gear and instructor support.

What if I can’t swim well?

Basic swimming confidence helps, but it’s not a strict requirement. You’ll use safety equipment and follow controlled procedures. If you’re anxious in water, tell the instructor early — they’ll guide you through it safely.

Related courses
and packages

STCW10 Basic Safety Training
5 Days
21 SEP 2026