TM Boatmaster Grade 1 

Course Description

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Boatmaster Grade 1 is an advanced training program designed for individuals seeking to serve as Masters on commercial vessels of less than 24 meters in length within the territorial waters of Malta. This course equips candidates with the knowledge and skills required for responsible navigation, safety, and effective ship operation.

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Requirements:

 

• Minimum Age: 19 years

• Vessel Length & Power: Qualification to serve as Master on a commercial vessel of less than 24 meters in length. Note: This certificate does not include an engineering qualification. Applicants intending to serve as both Master and Engineer on a vessel of 12 meters to less than 24 meters will need an appropriate Engine Driver certificate.

• Operating Limits: Within ports, internal, and territorial waters of Malta.

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Prerequisite Qualifying Service:

1. Applicant must have at least 24 months of appropriate service.

2. Be in possession of a General Purpose Hand Certificate.

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Minimum Training Required:

 

Completion of an approved training course followed by an Oral and Practical examination covering the following areas:

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1. Coastal Navigation:

• Interpret navigational chart information and compensate for compass variation and deviation.

• Plan safe routes and plot positions on navigational charts.

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2. Ship Knowledge:

• Identify vessel components and explain their functions.

• Maintain vessel watertight integrity and operate fuel, freshwater, and bilge systems.

• Operate steering and emergency steering systems.

• Understand maintenance and survey requirements for various hull types.

• Interpret and apply Stability Information.

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3. Radar & Navigational Aids:

• Operate and interpret small vessel radar displays for position fixing and monitoring.

• Use radar for collision avoidance.

• Operate wheelhouse equipment, including GPS, depth sounder, magnetic compasses, gyro, autopilot, and alarm systems.

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4. Work Team Communication:

• Develop communication skills.

• Participate in group discussions to reach workplace agreements.

• Make job-related presentations and collaborate with team members for planning and preparation.

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5. Marine Radio Telephone Operation:

• Operate marine radio telephone equipment for routine and emergency messages.

• Perform user maintenance and fault-finding for radio equipment and power supply.

• Operate EPIRB and SART.

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6. Nautical Knowledge:

• Familiarize with nautical terms.

• Learn regulations and codes applicable to small vessels.

• Interpret meteorological data, radio reports, and observations.

• Understand procedures for a safe navigational watch and vessel maneuvering.

• Deal with emergency situations, following safety protocols.

• Study International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea.

• Comprehend IALA Region A Buoyage system.

• Interpret International Code of Signals and Distress Signals.

• Apply pollution prevention measures, including waste management and garbage plans.

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7. Occupational Health and Safety:

• Recognize fire hazards.

• Use life-saving appliances.

• Learn survival techniques.

• Apply OH&S principles in small commercial vessel operation in local waters.

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Other Requirements: In addition, the applicant must have:

1. A marine radio operator certificate relevant to the vessel's radio equipment.

2. A current approved First Aid Certificate.

3. An approved Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting certificate.

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Qualification Process:

To qualify, applicants must submit the following to the Authority for Transport in Malta - Ports and Yachting Directorate:

1. Completed application form.

2. Proof of Medical Fitness.

3. Proof of identity and age.

4. Proof of successfully completing the required training and examination.

5. 2 color passport-size photographs.

6. Payment of prescribed fees.

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Prepare for a rewarding career in maritime operations with the Boatmaster Grade 1 course, where you'll gain the expertise needed to safely navigate and master vessels in Maltese waters.