How to Obtain an Amateur Mariner Certificate?

How to Obtain an Amateur Mariner Certificate? Amateur Mariner Certificate is a document required for individuals who are interested in maritime activities and want to travel safely on the sea. This certificate shows that individuals have gained the competence to use marine vehicles by passing a certain training and examination process. The steps to be followed by those who want to obtain an Amateur Seaman Certificate are quite clear according to the regulations in Turkey. Here are the steps required to obtain an Amateur Mariner Certificate:

1. Select Certificate Type

In Turkey, those who wish to obtain an Amateur Seaman Certificate can choose from different types of certificates. The two most common types of certificates are:

• Amateur Seaman Yacht Captain Certificate (Class A): Allows you to be authorised to operate yachts and similar marine vessels. It is especially necessary for people interested in sailing and motor yachts.
• Amateur Seaman Boat Captain Certificate (class B): It applies to those who want to travel by small boats and motor boats.

When choosing the type of certificate, the size and type of watercraft you want to use should be taken into account.

2. Age and Health Requirements

In order to obtain an Amateur Mariner Certificate, you must fulfil certain age and health requirements:

• Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years of age to obtain a certificate. However, persons over the age of 16 can obtain an Amateur Seaman Boat Captain Certificate under certain conditions (for example, with family permission).
• Health Report: In order to engage in maritime activities, you must obtain a health report stating that you do not have any health impairment. The report includes especially eye examination, ear-nose-throat test and general physical examination. They must also not suffer from seasickness, dizziness or any other health problem that could jeopardise safety at sea.

3. Receive Training

In order to obtain an Amateur Mariner Certificate, you must receive training at an authorised maritime school. These trainings cover subjects such as maritime rules, safety precautions, basic maritime knowledge, meteorology, marine vehicles and navigation knowledge. The training consists of both theoretical and practical lessons.

You can apply for training at maritime schools or training centres operating under the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Transport. Keep in mind that these trainings cover a certain period of time and there will be an exam at the end.

4. Theoretical and Practical Examination

At the end of the training process, you must successfully pass an exam to obtain an Amateur Seaman Certificate. This exam consists of both theoretical and practical parts:

• Theoretical Exam: In this exam, basic concepts of maritime, maritime safety, map reading, navigation knowledge, meteorology are asked. In addition, knowledge about the maintenance and operation of marine vessels is tested.
• Practical Exam: The practical exam involves the application of the skills you have learnt in training on a real marine vessel. In this exam, knowledge of boat handling, manoeuvring and safe navigation at sea is evaluated.

In case of successful completion of the exam, you are entitled to receive your certificate.

5. Certificate Application and Fees

After the completion of the training and examination process, an application must be made with the necessary documents for the Amateur Mariner Certificate application. The following documents are usually requested during the application:

• Photocopy of identity card
• Health report
• Training certificate
• Exam application form
• Receipt showing that the exam fee has been paid

You may have to pay a certain fee to obtain an Amateur Seaman Certificate. This fee may vary depending on the educational institution and type of certificate.

6. Receiving the Certificate

After your application and examination process is completed, your certificate is issued successfully. With the delivery of the certificate, you can start using marine vessels. Your certificate is valid for a certain period of time, after which it may need to be renewed.

7. Travelling with a Certificate

The Amateur Mariner Certificate provides a certain authorisation regarding marine vessels. With this certificate, you can use marine vessels and engage in maritime activities. However, you need to pay attention to certain speed limits and size restrictions with the certificate. For example, some certificates may only authorise the use of small-sized boats, while others may apply to larger yachts.

Amateur Mariner Certificate is an important document for those who want to step into the maritime world. This certificate allows you to receive training in basic maritime knowledge and safety issues and allows you to travel at sea. By following the necessary steps regarding the training process, health report, exam and documents, you can obtain an Amateur Mariner Certificate and start exploring the passion of the sea safely.