What Do I Need to Get a Yacht Master 200 GT Certification

Achieving the prestigious Yacht Master 200 GT (Gross Tonnage) certification is a significant milestone for any aspiring yacht master.

This certification is designed for individuals looking to command yachts up to 200 gross tons and is recognized globally in the yachting industry.

Here's a comprehensive guide on what you need to fulfill the requirements for the Yacht Master 200 GT certification.

Age Requirement

• Minimum Age: Candidates must be at least 18 years old.

Communication Certification

• Marine Communications VHF-SRC Radio Operators Certificate: You must hold or obtain a Marine Communications VHF-SRC Radio Operators certificate. Note that ISSA VHF qualifications are not accepted. 

Basic STCW Certificates

• STCW Certificates: You need to hold or obtain all Basic STCW certificates. These certificates must be valid (not expired) and issued by countries on the IMO “White List.”
• Components: The EFA (Elementary First Aid), PST (Personal Survival Techniques), and BFF (Basic Fire Fighting) components cannot be taken online, whereas the PSSR (Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities) and PMSA (Proficiency in Maritime Security Awareness) components can be taken online. Note that if your STCW Safety Training was completed after January 1, 2014, the PMSA component is also required.

Sea Time and Boating Experience

• Yacht and Sea Time Requirements:

  • Your sea time must be on a yacht of at least 10 meters in length, defined as a non-cargo carrying vessel used for recreational or commercial charter purposes.
  • You must be an active crew member at sea, with a day defined as a period of 8 consecutive hours. Sea time spent in shipyard service or stand-by service is not accepted.
  • The term “at sea” refers to being on a vessel outside of any harbour, where a cruising yacht could secure or anchor for an extended period. Your nautical miles must be on genuine cruises or passages, not short day trips.
  • For power endorsement, the minimum 1,500 nautical miles cannot include sea time on any monohull sailing vessel driven under power.
    
    

• Documentation: You should provide documented evidence of your boating experience. If you have a sea time logbook, scan copies of the pages and send them in one PDF document, ensuring your name is at the top of each page. Alternatively, you can use the IYT testimonial for sea service or the IYT candidate sea time form available on your IYT Account.

Medical Fitness

• Medical and Eyesight Examination: A current medical fitness examination and a color blindness eyesight examination are required. These exams must have been performed within the last two years and ensure you can safely perform relevant duties on a yacht.

Practical Experience

• Hands-On Experience: It is highly recommended to have hands-on practical experience and sea time on both power and sailing vessels before attempting the exam. The practical exam is not the forum for learning basic skills.

Verification of Experience

• Experience Verification: Verification of your yachting experience must be original and signed by the skipper of the yacht you sailed on. If you were the skipper, you may sign your own entries, but independent verification may be required.

Military Service

• Military Letters: Military letters stating service days for sea time are also accepted. Each will be reviewed to ensure the experience meets the certification level requirements.

Conclusion

Obtaining the Yacht Master 200 GT certification involves meeting stringent requirements, including age, communication certification, STCW certificates, substantial sea time, medical fitness, and practical yachting experience. By fulfilling these criteria, you will be well-prepared to take on the responsibilities and challenges of commanding a yacht up to 200 gross tons.