Maritime safety and STCW: what every crew member should know

Maritime safety is non-negotiable. In my years as a superyacht engineer I've seen situations where STCW training makes the difference between reacting well or freezing up. Here's the essentials.

What is STCW?

STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) is the international convention that establishes minimum standards for maritime safety training. It was adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and is mandatory worldwide.

The STCW Basic certificate is an essential requirement for any position on a professional yacht, regardless of department. On Yemplea, all offers requiring STCW clearly indicate it in the requirements.

The 4 STCW Basic modules

1. Sea survival: Use of life rafts, life jackets, distress signals, hypothermia, abandon ship procedures
2. Fire prevention and firefighting: Types of fire, extinguisher use, breathing apparatus, evacuation
3. Elementary first aid: CPR, hemorrhages, fractures, shock, burns, casualty transport
4. Personal safety and social responsibilities: Marine pollution, human relations on board, emergency communication

Duration and price

• Duration: ~70 hours (1-2 weeks in person)
• Price: €400 – €700 depending on center
• Format: In-person (includes pool practice and fire drills)
• Renewal: Every 5 years

STCW renewal

Renewal (revalidation) is shorter than the initial course: about 20-30 hours and costs between €200 and €400. If you let it expire, you'll have to repeat the full course. Schedule renewal 3 months in advance to avoid problems.

Where to do it in Spain

There are accredited centers in all coastal regions. The main ones are in Ibiza, Palma, Barcelona, Valencia, Málaga and Las Palmas. Check our nautical training section to find centers and compare prices.

Why does it matter so much?

The sea is a high-risk environment. STCW isn't bureaucracy: it's the training that can save your life and your crewmates' lives. Yacht owners require it because it's their legal responsibility, but also because a safety-trained crew member is a valuable crew member.