You can have the best CV in the world and the most beautiful smile but without these documents, no Captain will let you set foot on the gangway. It's a matter of insurance and maritime law.

Here is the mandatory 2026 "Starter Pack"

1. The STCW 95 / 2010 (Basic Safety Training)

This is THE foundation. A 5- to 7-day course that teaches you how to survive at sea.

Course content:

• Firefighting (you suit up as a firefighter and extinguish real fires)
• Sea survival (jumping into the water with a lifejacket, righting an overturned life raft)
• Basic first aid
• Social responsibilities

Cost: Approximately €1,000 – €1,200
Validity: 5 years

2. The ENG1 Medical Certificate (Your Golden Ticket)

A full medical check-up performed by a doctor approved by maritime authorities (MCA).

They check everything: eyesight, hearing, heart, back. Why? Because at sea, there's no hospital nearby. If you're medically unfit, you're a risk to the entire vessel.

Cost: Approximately €100 – €150

Do this BEFORE paying for your STCW course (if you're unfit, don't waste €1,000 for nothing!)

3. The Security Certificate (PDSD – Proficiency in Designated Security Duties)

Now virtually mandatory on all yachts over 500 gross tons (the big ones).

A short course (1–2 days) covering anti-piracy and anti-terrorism security. How to spot a threat, how to respond if someone boards the yacht unlawfully.

Tip: Often offered as a "package" with your STCW—more cost-effective that way.

My Chef's Advice:

Ignore anyone who says, "I'll do it later." Without an ENG1 and STCW, you're a tourist—not a crew member. Invest in yourself.