STCW Training
STCW Refresher
Specialist Training
Inland Shipping
Onshore training
GWO Initial training
GWO Refresher Training
NOGEPA training
OPITO trainingen
Fire Protection
Fire Brigade
First Responder training
First Aid Training
Emergency Plans
About DRTC
Any questions? Please contact us
The STCW – Maritime Crew Resource Management (MCRM) course for deck officers focuses on leadership, communication, and teamwork on board. The training combines the principles of Bridge Resource Management (BRM) with leadership and human factors, emphasizing safe navigation, effective decision-making, and bridge team coordination.
Questions or need help? Send an email or call 0031 118 463382
Select a Start Date
Select location
Select course
Maritime Crew Resource Management - Bridge
Maritime Crew Resource Management - Bridge (Pinkstermaandag lesvrij)
IntroductionThe MCRM course consists of two parts: a 3-day BRM program at the operational level, followed by a 2-day management module. The first part focuses on teamwork and the importance of effective communication on the bridge, while the second part emphasizes leadership, management, and understanding human factors that influence decision-making.Human factors — such as cooperation, motivation, concentration, and communication — are recognized as key elements in preventing accidents and maintaining high safety standards at sea.
ObjectiveThe objective of the MCRM course is to develop leadership, communication, and decision-making skills among deck officers, with a strong focus on improving onboard safety culture and operational efficiency.
Target Group
Masters, chief officers, and deck officers
Marofs and supervisory nautical personnel
Shore-based representatives involved in ship operations or safety management
Entry RequirementsParticipants must hold or be in training for a Deck Officer or Marof certificate.Those without this qualification will receive a certificate of attendance.
Course ContentThe course combines theoretical sessions, teamwork exercises, and simulator-based training. Topics include:
Team formation and bridge team coordination
Effective communication and decision-making under pressure
Leadership and motivation techniques
Human factors and safety culture
Planning, task management, and prioritization
Stress management and situational awareness
Coaching and mentoring within bridge teams
CertificationUpon successful completion, participants receive:
Maritime Crew Resource Management (MCRM) – Deck Officers, in accordance with:
Table A-II/2 (Use of Leadership and Managerial Skills)
Table A-II/1 and A-III/6 (Application of Leadership and Teamworking Skills) of the STCW Manila Amendments
ValidityUnlimited
Duration5 consecutive days
Schedule08:30 – 17:00
Number of ParticipantsMinimum 4, maximum 12
AssessmentFormative assessment during simulator sessions combined with a short test at the end of the course.
Training MethodA blend of classroom instruction, group discussions, and simulator-based scenarios designed to strengthen teamwork, communication, and leadership in realistic bridge environments.
The day begins with a Search and Rescue simulation and maintenance management session, followed by an introduction to Maritime Crew Resource Management (MCRM). Evening sessions feature the first bridge and engine room simulator exercises.
The second day deepens MCRM theory and leadership skills. Evening sessions include advanced ERM simulations emphasizing coordination, teamwork, and communication.
Day three focuses on practical MCRM application through full-mission bridge simulations. Participants practice complex operational scenarios emphasizing situational awareness and decision-making under pressure.
The fourth day covers HELM (Human Element, Leadership & Management) theory and explores the impact of human factors on operational safety. Afternoon sessions feature bridge simulations testing leadership under stress.
The final day integrates all acquired skills in full-mission simulations combining leadership, communication, and decision-making. The program concludes with evaluation and certification.
With the best resources and facilities at our disposal, we are able to offer training and courses of the highest quality.
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.
Flexible and targeted training on specific bridge systems and navigation procedures.
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.
The Part Task Bridge (PTB) is a simulator designed for targeted training on specific bridge operations. While the Full Mission Bridge focuses on complete scenarios, the PTB allows participants to practice individual systems and procedures such as navigation, radar, and ECDIS.
What makes the PTB unique is its flexibility: participants can train individually or in small groups, allowing for more focused practice, repetition, and in-depth learning. The PTB can also be seamlessly integrated into broader Full Mission scenarios.
The PTB is used by ship officers, nautical students, and maritime and offshore teams who want to strengthen their knowledge and skills in specific bridge tasks.
Navigate using radar and ECDIS
Operate communication and alarm systems
Perform maneuvering tasks in simulated conditions
Apply COLREGS correctly in traffic scenarios
Execute routine and emergency procedures within defined training modules
Integrate part-task training into larger Full Mission simulations
Would you like your crew or students to practice specific bridge tasks in a focused way?Contact us — we offer customized PTB training programs, which can also be combined with the FMB or other simulators.
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.
Born and raised in Zeeland, Michel de Pooter carries the sea in his heart. From a young age, his parents took him along on their sailing boat, instilling in him a deep-rooted love for the water and maritime life.
After completing his Maritime Officer training, Michel began his career as a 4th Officer with the cruise ships of Holland America Line. In the following years, he rose through the ranks to Staff Captain, gaining a wealth of experience in leadership and ship operations on board cruise vessels worldwide.
In 2025, Michel chose a new course: a shore-based position that allowed him to spend more time with his family while sharing his extensive hands-on knowledge with others. As Senior Maritime Instructor at DRTC, he delivers a variety of maritime training programs and is also regularly involved in the preparation and development of courses at the office.
Maarten Janse was born and raised in Zeeland and has a deep connection with the sea. After completing his Bachelor of Maritime Officer degree at the Maritime Institute De Ruyter (2002–2006), he began his career as a 4th officer on the cruise ships of Holland America Line. In the years that followed, he progressed to 1st officer and gained worldwide experience in ship navigation and maneuvering, delivering safety training to crew in various emergency roles, organizing emergency drills, and leading teams responsible for the maintenance of lifesaving appliances and fire detection, prevention, and firefighting systems.
In 2022, Maarten made the transition to a shore-based position, wishing to spend more time with his family while sharing his extensive hands-on experience with others. As a Senior Maritime Instructor at DRTC, he delivers training such as AFF, PST, PSCRB, FRB, ECDIS, GWO, and MCRM, as well as modules within ship management. His trainings are realistic, practice-oriented, and always linked to real-world situations. Maarten holds the certificate of competency as Master Mariner (all ships) and Firefighting Crew Member, and is a certified CAE MCRM instructor, making him a specialist in maritime incident response and teamwork.
Maarten has a strong passion for sharing knowledge. As a black belt holder in Kyokushin karate, he enthusiastically taught both youth and adults for many years. That same energy, dedication and attention to the participant characterize his approach in every training he delivers.
DRTC provides a wide range of accredited safety courses for the maritime, offshore, wind and industrial sectors.
See the current course overview on our website or contact drtc@drtc.nl for advice on the right training for your needs.
For seafarers and maritime professionals who must comply with international STCW requirements.
Yes, our STCW courses are recognised by the Dutch flag state (the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate – ILT). Each certificate includes the relevant STCW reference, ensuring international recognition.
We offer Basic Training (BT), Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF), Medical First Aid (MFA), Medical Care (MC), Proficiency in (Fast) Rescue Boats (PSCRB/FRB), and Security Awareness/Designated Duties.
Most STCW certificates must be renewed every 5 years (depending on the module and sea time requirements). Check the course page for exact details.
Yes, a valid maritime medical certificate is mandatory for participation.
Bring valid identification, a medical certificate (mandatory), and swimwear/towel if the course includes a pool module. PPE and rescue equipment are provided by DRTC.
Courses are available in Dutch or English. Additional support for reading difficulties can be arranged on request.
You will receive a digital and/or physical certificate in compliance with STCW standards. The format may vary by course.
Not required, but possible. Call us for advice or available options at +31 118 463 382 or email drtc@drtc.nl.
Yes, we can. You can request this when booking or contact us by email or phone. We will arrange a suitable hotel and package for your stay.
You can cancel your booking by contacting us via email or phone. For open enrolment courses you may cancel free of charge up to 5 working days before the start. For customised training you may cancel free of charge up to 14 working days before the start. If you cancel within those deadlines the full course fee will be invoiced.
Visit our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ page for more information, or contact us at +31 118 463 382 or email drtc@drtc.nl.
Wil je meer weten over een training, maatwerk bespreken of gewoon even sparren over de mogelijkheden? Neem gerust contact met ons op