Maritime

STCW - Ship Handling Conventional Propulsion

The STCW Ship Handling Conventional Propulsion course focuses on the safe and effective maneuvering of ships equipped with conventional propulsion systems (propeller and rudder). Participants learn how ships respond to various maneuvers and environmental factors such as wind, current, and shallow water, developing the ability to operate safely under both normal and emergency conditions.

Course duration: 3 days

Objects and facilities:

Cost per student: € 3.235,00 (excl. BTW)

Questions or need help? Send an email or call 0031 118 463382

Select a Start Date

No course

Full

Available

Selected

Select location

Select course

About this course

STCW - Ship Handling Conventional propulsion

Introduction
Understanding ship behavior is fundamental to safe navigation. This course provides an in-depth exploration of hydrodynamic principles affecting ship maneuverability. Participants practice handling conventional ships under diverse conditions, including berthing, unberthing, turning in confined waters, and reacting to emergencies such as steering or propulsion failure. The blend of theoretical instruction and simulation-based exercises ensures improved confidence, precision, and situational awareness on the bridge.

Objective
The objective of the course is to train participants to effectively maneuver conventionally propelled vessels while maintaining safety, efficiency, and control under all operational circumstances. Upon completion, participants will possess the knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to manage ship movements in port, at sea, and during emergency situations.

Target group
This training is intended for deck officers, masters, and other maritime professionals responsible for the handling of conventionally propelled ships in both harbor and open sea operations.

Practical info

Entry requirements
Participants must hold:

A valid STCW certificate appropriate to their rank (officer or higher)
A valid medical certificate for seafarers
Basic knowledge of propulsion systems and navigational principles (recommended)

Course content
The training program covers both theoretical and practical topics, including:

Principles of conventional propulsion and rudder behavior
Effects of wind, current, draught, and squat on ship handling
Preparation of vessel, bridge, and crew for maneuvers
Use of tugs, bow thrusters, and stern thrusters
Handling in confined waters, ports, and low-speed operations
Berthing and unberthing techniques
Emergency maneuvers (rudder or propulsion failure)
Simulator-based exercises and performance assessment
Bridge team management and communication during maneuvers

Certification
Upon successful completion, participants receive a Certificate of Completion – Ship Handling Conventional Propulsion in accordance with the STCW Convention and industry best practices.

Validity
Certificate validity complies with current STCW and company-specific requirements.

Validity
Unlimited

Duration
8 consecutive days

Participants
Minimum 6, maximum 12

Class Hours
08:30 – 17:00

What's on the program?

Day 1 - Theory and fundamentals of ship handling
Day 2 - Applied maneuvering techniques in simulation
Day 3 - Advanced handling and emergency operations

High-quality facilities that make a difference

With the best resources and facilities at our disposal, we are able to offer training and courses of the highest quality.

View all facilities Our locations

Theory and practice under one roof

Classrooms

The perfect environment for theory sessions, preparation, and evaluation of practical training.

Enjoy a good meal and relax during your training days

Canteen

Provided by SEC Catering – your break moment with quality food and excellent service during training days.

Navigation and ship handling in a lifelike environment

Full Mission Bridge Simulator

In collaboration with HZ University of Applied Sciences, we have access to an extensive range of maritime simulators. These high-tech systems make it possible to train realistic scenarios covering navigation, communication, engineering, and electrical systems.

Theory and practice under one roof

Classrooms

Our classrooms form the foundation of all our training programs. Here, participants prepare with theoretical knowledge, interactive presentations, and clear instructions before moving on to the practical sessions. The rooms are modern, well-equipped, and provide a calm, professional learning environment.

What makes the classrooms unique is their direct connection to our training facilities. This allows theory to be applied immediately in practice, ensuring an optimal learning experience for every participant.

Who is it for

The classrooms are used by all participants in maritime, offshore, and industrial training programs. Whether for short briefings or multi-day courses, they serve as both the starting point and the place for reflection and debriefing.

What you’ll experience

Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll take part in:

Theoretical instruction and presentations
Preparation for practical exercises
Safety briefings and procedural training
Interactive discussions and group assignments
Evaluation and debriefing of practical training sessions
Testing and certification

The classrooms are equipped with modern audiovisual tools and can be configured flexibly for both small groups and larger sessions.

For your organization

Would you like to combine customized or in-company training with both theory and practice?
Contact us — together we’ll design a program that aligns perfectly with your learning objectives.

Enjoy a good meal and relax during your training days

Canteen

The Canteen is your place to unwind — enjoy good food, a pleasant atmosphere, and the opportunity to share experiences. Catering is provided by SEC Catering, a regional company from Zeeland known for its fresh, flavorful dishes and flexible service.

Who is it for

Everyone participating in our training programs — from trainees and instructors to guests — is welcome in the Canteen to take a break, hold a meeting, or simply enjoy a meal.

What you’ll experience

Fresh, locally sourced dishes provided by SEC Catering
Options for lunch, snacks, and drinks
Comfortable seating areas to relax between training sessions
An informal meeting space to share experiences and connect with others

For your organization

Would you like your training day to be fully catered, including food and drinks?
Let us know your preferences — together with SEC Catering, we’ll arrange everything from the menu to the timing.

Navigation and ship handling in a lifelike environment

Full Mission Bridge Simulator

The Full Mission Bridge (FMB) is an advanced simulator that enables participants to train realistic bridge scenarios. From ship navigation and maneuvering to communication and teamwork within the bridge crew, the FMB provides a complete learning environment for both routine and emergency situations.

What makes the FMB unique is the combination of authentic bridge instruments and high-quality visualizations, allowing trainees to experience lifelike situations in a safe setting. The simulator can be used independently or integrated with other systems, such as the engine room simulator or the GMDSS classroom, to create fully coordinated Full Mission exercises.

Who is it for

The FMB is used by ship officers, nautical students, and maritime or offshore teams who want to develop or refine their skills in navigation, decision-making, and team coordination.

What you’ll practice

Under the guidance of experienced instructors, participants will learn to:

Navigate and maneuver under various conditions
Use bridge instruments such as radar, ECDIS, and conning displays
Apply bridge procedures and communicate with traffic control and other vessels
Work together, delegate tasks, and demonstrate leadership within a bridge team
Make decisions under pressure during emergency situations
Integrate operations with the engine room and GMDSS systems in full mission scenarios

For your organization

Would you like your team to train using realistic bridge scenarios or integrated full mission simulations?
Contact us — we’ll create a program tailored to your learning objectives.

Our instructors

The people behind the training.

Our experienced trainers challenge you to bring out the best in yourself. Our program coordinators are available to provide you with all information and to answer any practical questions regarding the training.