The maritime industry is one of the most exciting and globally connected career paths available today. Whether you want to work on cargo ships, cruise liners, or offshore vessels, the first and most essential step in your journey is completing the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) course.
Traditionally, many seafarers had to visit training institutes physically to book and enroll for the course. But today, with digital platforms and maritime service providers, booking an STCW course online has become simple, fast, and transparent.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about booking an STCW course online—from understanding the basics of STCW to completing your registration and starting your training.
What Is the STCW Course?
Before diving into the booking steps, let’s clarify what STCW means.
The STCW Convention was introduced by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 1978 and later amended to ensure a standardized level of training for seafarers across the world. The aim is to promote safety of life at sea and protect the marine environment.
The course is mandatory for anyone aspiring to work onboard a ship, whether in deck, engine, or hospitality departments. It covers crucial safety aspects, firefighting, survival techniques, first aid, and security awareness.
Core Modules of STCW Basic Safety Training (BST)
- Personal Survival Techniques (PST) – Teaches survival at sea, life raft use, and emergency procedures.
- Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (FPFF) – Covers firefighting methods, equipment handling, and evacuation drills.
- Elementary First Aid (EFA) – Provides life-saving medical training for emergencies.
- Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (PSSR) – Prepares seafarers to adapt to life at sea, teamwork, and compliance.
- Security Awareness (STSDSD) – Awareness about maritime security threats and countermeasures.
Without these certificates, no seafarer can legally join a vessel.
Why Book the STCW Course Online?
Gone are the days of standing in long queues, visiting multiple training institutes, or dealing with fraudulent agents. Online booking offers:
- Convenience – Register from anywhere, anytime.
- Transparency – Clear information on course fees, dates, and schedules.
- Faster Confirmation – Instant booking receipts and payment records.
- Trusted Process – Authorized institutes and service providers are listed online.
- Time Saving – No paperwork hassles; digital uploads simplify documentation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Book STCW Course Online
Now let’s get into the core part: how to book your STCW course online.
Step 1: Choose a Reliable Maritime Institute or Service Provider
- Visit recognized websites such as DG Shipping-approved maritime institutes or authorized service companies like Biocean Marine Services.
- Check the institute’s approval status with the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), India, or IMO-recognized authorities abroad.
- Look for reviews, testimonials, and placement records to ensure credibility.
👉 Tip: Avoid middlemen or unverified agents. Always book directly through the official institute website or a trusted maritime training facilitator.
Step 2: Select the Right STCW Course Package
STCW courses are available in multiple levels depending on your rank and career goals:
- Basic STCW (BST) – Mandatory for all entry-level seafarers.
- Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF) – For officers and higher ranks.
- Proficiency in Survival Craft & Rescue Boats (PSCRB) – For those assigned to lifeboats/rescue duties.
- Tanker Familiarization (OCTCO/LGTF/GASCO/TASCO) – For seafarers joining oil, gas, or chemical tankers.
Choose the correct package according to your department (Deck/Engine/Hotel) and the type of vessel you aim to join.
Step 3: Check Course Schedule & Fees
- Online portals usually display available batch dates, timings, and duration.
- Compare course fees across institutes, but prioritize quality and approval status.
- Look out for special packages that combine multiple advanced courses at discounted rates.
👉 Example: A complete BST package may cost between ₹10,000 – ₹16,000 in India, depending on the institute.
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents
Most online booking systems will ask you to upload scanned copies of essential documents. Keep them ready in PDF/JPEG format:
- Valid Indian Passport
- 10th Standard Marksheet (minimum qualification requirement for most seafaring jobs)
- Passport-size Photographs (digital copies with white background)
- Medical Fitness Certificate (sometimes required before admission)
👉 Always ensure your documents are clear, properly scanned, and under the file-size limit specified on the website.
Step 5: Create an Online Account & Register
- Go to the institute’s website and look for “Enroll Now” or “Book Online” button.
- Create a student account with your email ID, mobile number, and password.
- Fill in your personal details—name, date of birth, address, emergency contact, etc.
This account will later be used to download your admit card, payment receipts, and even e-certificates.
Step 6: Upload Documents
- Upload the scanned copies of passport, marksheet, and photos.
- Verify the file type and size as per the guidelines.
- Double-check before submitting, since incorrect uploads may delay your admission.
Step 7: Make Online Payment
Once your registration is filled and documents uploaded:
- Proceed to secure payment gateway (Net Banking, UPI, Debit/Credit Card).
- Most institutes offer instant payment confirmation with an automated receipt sent to your email/WhatsApp.
- Save the receipt—it is proof of your course booking.
👉 Some service providers also allow EMI payments or installment options for convenience.
Step 8: Receive Confirmation & Joining Instructions
After payment, you’ll get:
- Booking Confirmation Slip (online or via email).
- Course Schedule & Joining Instructions—timing, dress code, items to carry (e.g., sportswear for firefighting drills).
- Contact details of the institute coordinator.
Step 9: Attend the Training
- Report on the specified date with your original documents for verification.
- Attend both classroom sessions and practical drills (firefighting, swimming pool survival, first aid practice).
- Complete all modules successfully.
👉 Attendance is compulsory; missing practicals may result in disqualification.
Step 10: Receive Your STCW Certificate
- After passing assessments, the institute issues a DG Shipping-approved certificate.
- Today, most institutes provide QR-coded e-certificates that can be verified online.
- Keep digital copies and laminated hard copies safe—they are your gateway to joining ships.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Booking Online
- Booking through unauthorized agents – Risk of fake certificates.
- Not checking institute approval – Only DG Shipping-approved courses are valid for Indian seafarers.
- Delaying document uploads – Causes last-minute cancellations.
- Ignoring batch schedule – Missing start dates may waste both money and time.
- Not reading refund/cancellation policy – Always review before payment.
Benefits of Booking Through Biocean Marine (Example)
If you are booking through professional service providers like Biocean Marine Services Pvt Ltd, you get additional advantages:
- One-stop assistance for STCW courses, CDC, SID, US Visa, and placement.
- Transparent fee structure with no hidden charges.
- 24×7 WhatsApp support for doubts and queries.
- Partnerships with multiple DG Shipping-approved institutes across India.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I book the STCW course online without a passport?
No. A valid passport is mandatory for seafarer training and placement.
Q2. Is 10th marksheet compulsory?
Yes. Minimum education qualification for entry into merchant navy is 10th pass.
Q3. How long does the STCW course take?
The Basic Safety Training (BST) course usually takes 10–12 days. Advanced courses may take longer.
Q4. Are online STCW courses available?
Theoretical parts may be online, but practicals (firefighting, survival drills) are always conducted physically.
Q5. How soon will I get the certificate?
Usually within 2–3 days after course completion and passing assessments.
