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STCW - Marcom B (Restricted Operators Certificate)

The STCW – Marcom B course provides the “Restricted Certificate of Maritime Radiocommunication”, which authorizes use of maritime radio frequencies on inland and coastal waters.

Course duration: 3 days
Locations: Vlissingen
Cost per student: € 623,00 (excl. BTW)

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

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About this course

STCW – Marcom B (Restricted Certificate of Maritime Radiocommunication)

Introduction
This course covers both theory and practical training in maritime radiocommunication for inland navigation and coastal zones. After passing the theory and practical examination, the certificate is requested via the Central Office for Motor Vehicle Driver Testing (CBR). 

Objective
To equip participants with the knowledge and skills required to operate maritime radio equipment safely, effectively, and in compliance with regulations, in inland and coastal waters.

Target Group
Seafarers, skippers or crew working on inland waterways or coastal zones who require a maritime radio communication certificate.

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Practical info

Entry Requirements
Minimum age: 16 years
Basic knowledge of the English language (for maritime communication)
Possession of a valid form of identification

Course Content
Basic principles of maritime radio communication (VHF Radio)
Operation and use of maritime transmitting and receiving equipment (e.g. VHF radio, DSC)
Communication procedures for distress, urgency, and safety situations
Use of English for maritime communication

Examinations and Certification
The examination consists of the following components:
a. Regulations, procedures, and technical knowledge
b. English (Standard Maritime Vocabulary)
Upon successful completion of the written and practical examinations, participants will receive the official Marcom-B Certificate, issued under the authority of the Dutch Agentschap Telecom.

Validity
The certificate is valid indefinitely.

Course Duration
3 days (including examination)

Number of Participants
Minimum 6, maximum 12

Training Hours
08:30 – 17:00 hours

Related Courses
Marcom-B: Restricted Certificate of Maritime Radio Communication (3 days, including examination)
VHF Radio: Basic Certificate of Marifonie (1 day, excluding examination)
Module B: 1.5 days, excluding theory exam, including practical exam

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Day 1 - Introduction and Regulations

Introduction and registration. Regulations and obligations. Technology, VHF channel layout, VHF communication and DSC. Distress, urgency and safety communication.

Day 2 - GMDSS and Simulator Training

GMDSS, DSC, EPIRB, SART and NAVTEX. Simulator instruction and training.

Day 3 - Review and Examination Practice

Review of exercise and exam questions. Practical sessions focused on applying procedures and communication skills in preparation for the assessment.

What's on the program?

  • Day 1 - Introduction and Regulations
  • Day 2 - GMDSS and Simulator Training
  • Day 3 - Review and Examination Practice

Get to know our facilities in Vlissingen

Our training locations are specifically designed to optimize your learning experience. With modern facilities, realistic training environments, and centrally located centers in Vlissingen and Groningen, we offer a professional and comfortable setting where practice and safety come together.

Classroom + GMDSS

Realistic training with modern maritime simulation

Classroom + GMDSS

Realistic training with GMDSS and maritime communication.

Classroom + GMDSS

Realistic training with modern maritime simulation

Classroom + GMDSS

The Classroom Simulation is equipped with modern communication systems, including the GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System). Here, participants learn how to manage emergency, safety, and routine communication at sea safely and efficiently.

What makes this simulator unique is that trainees can practice all aspects of maritime communication — including distress calls, alerting, and coordination with rescue services — in a realistic yet safe environment.

Who is it for

The Classroom Simulation is used by maritime personnel, ship officers, nautical students, and offshore teams who need to be proficient in GMDSS operations and maritime communication procedures.

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What you’ll practice

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

  • Operate GMDSS equipment for distress, urgency, and safety calls

  • Follow correct procedures for routine communication at sea

  • Collaborate and communicate effectively as a team during emergency scenarios

  • Practice realistic navigation and communication situations

  • Integrate communication within broader Full Mission scenarios

For your organization

Would you like to train your crew in ship communication and navigation procedures?
Contact us — we offer customized programs using both Classroom and Full Mission simulations.

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.

Emile van Dooren
Instructor

Let them convince you

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Frequently asked questions

DRTC provides a wide range of accredited safety courses for the maritime, offshore, wind and industrial sectors.

  • STCW – including Basic Training, Advanced Fire Fighting, Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSCRB/FRB), Medical First Aid, Medical Care and Security Awareness.
  • GWO – Basic Safety Training (BST) and individual modules such as Working at Height, First Aid, Fire Awareness, Manual Handling, Sea Survival and Enhanced First Aid.
  • NOGEPA – Basic Offshore Safety, Helicopter Underwater Escape (HUET), Sea Survival, Fire-fighting and specialised refresher courses.
  • BHV/First Aid/VCA – Basic and refresher courses in Emergency Response, First Aid and Safety Certification for all 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.

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.