Maritime education

Crew training

Introduction

There are many Dutch maritime academies that offer a diverse range of courses.

Depending on their level of education, students can choose from a large variety of careers including deckhand, engineer and maritime officer.

Atlantic Klipper

MBO – higher vocational education

MBO level 2

Helmsman/engineer in areas limited to: Dutch waters, Dutch exclusive economic zone or international coastal voyages. These in generally vessels for port services, coast guard or offshore.

Admission requirements:

  • VMBO High school diploma (preparatory secondary vocational education) with mathematics, physics and chemistry.
  • Relevant vocational training MBO level 1.

MBO level 3

Helmsman/engineer for ships smaller than 3,000 ton and/or with installed power of less than 3,000 kW.

Admission requirements:

  • VMBO High school diploma (preparatory secondary vocational education) with mathematics, physics and chemistry.
  • Relevant vocational training MBO level 2

MBO level 4

Helmsman/engineer for all ships.

Admission requirements:

  • VMBO High school diploma (preparatory secondary vocational education) with mathematics, physics and chemistry.
  • Relevant vocational training MBO level 3.
  • Proof of transition from 3rd to 4th class at high school higher level.

 If you do not meet the admission requirements, then contact one of the maritime colleges to find out the possibilities open to you.

Maritime academies

HBO – higher professional education

HBO courses offer training as a maritime officer. They include technical, mechanical and nautical programmes.

Maritime academies

Please visit the websites of the individual maritime academies to find out more about their admission requirements.

Medical examination

To work as a seafarer, a medical examination is compulsory. Although it is not compulsory to have this examination prior to starting an educational course, it is recommended to do so, because it is requirement for an internship. For more information about the medical examination and its requirements, please see the website of the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate.