What Is an STCW Refresher Course?

An STCW Refresher Course (sometimes called STCW Update Training) is designed for seafarers who need to renew specific practical elements of their original STCW certification.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) requires crew members working commercially to demonstrate that they continue to possess the practical skills needed to respond effectively during emergencies onboard.

Rather than repeating the full Basic Safety Training course, the refresher focuses on updating critical hands-on safety competencies.

When Do You Need an STCW Refresher?

For most commercial yacht crew, refresher training becomes necessary every five years, particularly if you intend to continue working at sea.

You will generally require refresher training if:

• Your STCW certificates are approaching the five-year renewal period.
• You are returning to the maritime industry after time away.
• Your employer or yacht management company requests updated certification.
• You need to remain compliant with current maritime regulations.

Keeping your certificates current helps avoid delays when joining a yacht and ensures you remain employable throughout the industry.

What Does the Refresher Course Cover?

The exact content depends on your existing qualifications, but most STCW refresher programmes include updated practical training in:

Personal Survival Techniques (PST)

Candidates practise abandoning ship, life raft procedures, survival equipment and emergency response at sea.

Fire Prevention & Fire Fighting (FPFF)

This module refreshes firefighting techniques, use of extinguishers, breathing apparatus and emergency fire response.

Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities

Crew members revisit onboard safety culture, accident prevention, communication and teamwork.

Security Awareness

Updates on recognising security risks and following current onboard security procedures.

Training is highly practical, allowing experienced crew to refresh essential skills under the guidance of qualified instructors.

Do You Need to Repeat the Entire STCW Course?

Not necessarily.

For most active seafarers, only the practical refresher modules are required.

However, if your certificates have been expired for an extended period or you cannot demonstrate sufficient sea service, you may be required to complete additional training or repeat certain modules.

Your training provider can advise which option applies to your individual circumstances.

How Long Does the STCW Refresher Course Take?

The course is considerably shorter than the original STCW Basic Safety Training.

Depending on the modules required, refresher courses are often completed within one to three days, making them convenient for crew members between contracts.

Because many yacht crew complete refresher training during the Mediterranean season, booking in advance is recommended.

Why Complete Your STCW Refresher in Antibes?

Antibes has become one of Europe’s leading training destinations for professional yacht crew.

Located on the French Riviera and home to Port Vauban, one of the Mediterranean’s largest marinas, the town attracts thousands of captains, crew and yachts every season.

Completing your refresher training in Antibes offers several advantages:

• Internationally recognised training providers.
• Modern practical facilities.
• Convenient access from Nice International Airport.
• Flexible course dates throughout the year.
• Opportunities to combine training with job searching and networking.
• Immediate proximity to the heart of the Mediterranean yachting industry.

For many crew members, renewing certifications where employment opportunities are concentrated simply makes practical sense.

Antibes or Barcelona?

Many crew compare STCW refresher courses in Antibes and Barcelona, as both cities are established yachting hubs.

Antibes is often preferred by crew already working or planning to work in the French Riviera, Italy or Monaco, while Barcelona may suit those based in Spain.

Choosing a location close to your intended employment market can make it easier to combine training with interviews, dock walking or agency registrations.