What Sea Service Do I Need to Get My OICNW?

For oceans, you need either 1080 days working in the deck department, or 360 as part of an approved training program. At least 180 days have to be performing bridge watchkeeping duties under supervision of an officer holding the STCW endorsement as master, chief mate, or OICNW.

How do I meet the sea service requirements?

You have 2 options for how to meet the sea service requirements for OICNW.

1. Provide evidence of 36 months (1080) of service in the deck department on vessels operating in oceans, near-coastal waters, and/or Great Lakes. Service on inland waters, bays, or sounds that are navigable waters of the United States may be substituted for up to 50 percent of the required service. Experience gained in the engine department may be creditable for up to 3 months of the service requirements
2. Provide evidence of not less than 12 months of seagoing service as part of an approved training program that includes onboard training that meets the requirements of Section A-II/1 of the STCW Code

Additionally, you have to provide evidence of having performed during the required seagoing service, bridge watchkeeping duties, under the supervision of an officer holding the STCW endorsement as master, chief mate, or OICNW, for a period of not less than 6 months.

This means sea service where you were supervised on the bridge by someone holding the STCW endorsement as master, chief mate, or OICNW counts towards the 6 month requirement.

We hope this made your life a little easier and if you have other questions the MM-SEAS team is always here to help!

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