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STCW Efficient Deck Hand (EDH)
The STCW Efficient Deck Hand course (EDH) is an entry-level course aimed at seafarers working towards a qualification such as an Able Seafarer or Officer of the Watch (Deck).
Run over 5 days, the course is delivered both practically and theoretically, covering aspects of being an efficient deck hand as well as supervising deck operations. Student will learn everything from navigation at support level (helmsmen duties) to contributing to berthing, anchoring and mooring operations, all in accordance with MCA requirements.
Course Content
- Navigation at the support level (Helmsman & lookout duties)
- Contribute to a safe navigational watch
- Contribute to berthing, anchoring and other mooring operations
- Contribute to the handling of cargo and stores
- Contribute to the safe operation of deck equipment and machinery
- Apply occupational health and safety precautions
- Apply precautions and contribute to the prevention of pollution of the marine environment
- Operate survival craft and rescue boats
- Contribute to shipboard maintenance and repair
Who should do this course?
This MCA-approved course is entry level for commercial yachts, it is recognised by Captains and yacht crew management companies, and is ideal for those wishing to start careers within the deck or engine department of superyachts or skippering smaller yachts. It is also a first level qualification for the MCA Engineer Officer of the Watch CoC commercial yacht pathway.
All equipment to complete the course will be provided.Â
Course Pre-requisites
- Minimum age of 17 years
- An MCA-accepted Yachtmaster (Offshore or Coastal) or
- A Yacht Rating with at least 6 months’ seagoing service and a steering certificate
- An NWR Certificate
- A Boat Master Licence (BML) Tier 1 level 2 certificate
- A Tug Rating with at least 6 months’ seagoing service and a steering certificate
- A Seafish Fishing 16.5 Skippers Certificate (with evidence of at least 6 months seagoing service) or
- A UK Class 1 and 2 Fishing Certificates of Competency (Deck or Engineering)
What our customers say
Great course! Jason made the sessions fun and engaging, and tailored the content specifically to my needs.
Max, Efficient Deck Hand - October 2025
The instructor’s brilliant knowledge and skills made the course incredibly valuable - I learned so much!
Alfie, STCW Efficient Deck Hand, October 2025
Amazing instructor with great knowledge - a really good course. Jason made learning fun and was very helpful.
Grant, STCW Efficient Deck Hand, October 2025
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