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About DRTC
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The STCW Basic Training for Ships Operating in Polar Waters provides officers in charge of a navigational watch with the knowledge and skills required to operate ships safely in polar waters. The course addresses the specific challenges of navigation in ice-covered regions and ensures compliance with the Polar Code standards for safety and environmental protection.
Questions or need help? Send an email or call 0031 118 463382
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IntroductionOperating in polar waters presents unique challenges such as extreme cold, limited visibility, ice hazards, and remote conditions. This course familiarizes participants with the special requirements of ship operations in these regions. It includes both theoretical and practical elements, preparing officers to plan and execute voyages safely while protecting the vessel, crew, and environment.
ObjectiveThe objective of this training is to provide participants with the competence to operate ships safely and efficiently in polar waters. Upon completion, participants will be able to assess ice conditions, plan and conduct voyages in compliance with the Polar Code, ensure safe vessel performance in low temperatures, maintain crew readiness, and implement pollution prevention measures in sensitive polar environments.
Target groupThe course is designed for masters, chief mates, and officers in charge of a navigational watch on ships operating in polar waters who hold a valid Certificate of Competency (CoC).
Entry requirementsParticipants must hold:
Course contentThe course combines theoretical instruction with simulator-based exercises. Topics include:
Practical trainingParticipants take part in simulation exercises designed to enhance their decision-making, risk management, and navigational skills in realistic polar scenarios.
CertificationUpon successful completion, participants receive the internationally recognized certificate STCW Basic Training for Ships Operating in Polar Waters, in compliance with the IMO Polar Code and STCW regulations.
ValidityThe certificate has no fixed expiry date but should be maintained through continued professional competence in polar navigation.
Practical informationDuration: 3 daysCourse hours: 08:30 – 17:00Location: DRTC Vlissingen – Maritime Training Centre
With the best resources and facilities at our disposal, we are able to offer training and courses of the highest quality.
Realistic training with GMDSS and maritime communication.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
Jorian Schut was born and raised in Bergen op Zoom, where he grew up surrounded by water. Through sea scouts and sailing he discovered his passion for the sea and adventure. After completing his Maritime Officer studies at HZ University of Applied Sciences in Vlissingen (2016–2020), he started his seafaring career in early 2021 as an officer on heavy lift vessels. For four years he sailed worldwide and gained extensive experience with ice navigation in the Arctic region.
In early 2024, Jorian decided to pursue a shore-based career. Having previously attended his own safety courses at DRTC, he returned with great memories of that time – this time as an Maritime instructor. Since then, he has been delivering nearly the full range of STCW training, simulation training and GWO programs at DRTC. In addition, he is actively involved in the development of new courses, ensuring the training offer remains relevant and of high quality.
His training style is hands-on, approachable and always focused on learning together. Jorian values the stories and experiences of participants, creating an environment where everyone learns from one another. For him, safety courses should never feel like a mandatory exercise, but rather like a meaningful and enjoyable experience.
With certifications such as Firefighting Crew Member (and currently training for Firefighting Commander) and practical experience in challenging maritime environments, Jorian has built a solid foundation. Looking ahead, his ambition is to further expand his role by delivering more courses, developing new programs and taking on greater leadership responsibilities within the organization.
Born and raised in Brabant (very close to Efteling), Emile spent around 18 highly adventurous and educational years as part of the military system. Qualified to operate in extended various disciplines and shaped by the rigorous “green” Methodology, he developed a keen ability to respond inventively and ad hoc to incidents under Spartan conditions, a skillset still tested in practice somewhere on the globe today.
Since 2018, he has combined this discipline with SOLAS, STCW, and hands-on maritime expertise, delivered with a touch of humor, sharing his knowledge during training sessions under the motto: “Train as you fight.” He mainly works at the DRTC site in Flushing, on-site at companies, and on board vessels (an honorary privilege!), though he started out at the Groningen-site.
As a hobbyist in MARCOM, he contributes to DRTC’s consistently strong performance (≥90%) on CBR exam results.
Key traits: No-nonsense, energetic.
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.
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.