STCW basics

STCW stands for Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers. It's an IMO convention that defines minimum safety training for crew working on ships at sea.

What you need for a cruise role

For most non-officer cruise roles you'll need STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) — a bundle of four short courses:

1. Personal Survival Techniques — lifeboat boarding, sea survival. 2. Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting — onboard fire response. 3. Elementary First Aid — basic medical response. 4. Personal Safety and Social Responsibility — shipboard regulations.

Some roles add: Proficiency in Survival Craft & Rescue Boats (CPSCRB), Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF), Medical First Aid (MFA), Ship Security Officer (SSO), and Security Awareness / SDSD.

How long does it last

Most STCW certs are valid 5 years, then require refresher training. Refresher courses are shorter than the full original course.

Where to take it

Approved STCW training centers exist worldwide. Costs vary $400–$1500 USD for a full BST package. Beware "STCW certificates" sold without in-person practical assessments — they're not real and won't be accepted.