Programme Information
Next Programme Dates
To be scheduled
Who is the Programme for
Seafarers who wish to become Skipper of a fishing vessel.
Locations
National Fisheries College of Ireland (NFCI), Castletownbere, Co. Cork.
National Fisheries College of Ireland (NFCI), Greencastle, Co. Donegal.
Duration
Directed hours: 279 hours in total consisting of 31 hours per week for 9 weeks.
Self-directed hours: 126 hours consisting of 12 hours per week for 9 weeks.
Total: 405 hours over a period of 9 weeks.
Training Methodology
Centre based classroom instruction.
Certification
Second-Hand Limited Certificate of Competency (Fishing).
Entry Requirements
- Minimum age 18
- Have 2 years or more sea time on a vessel over 12 meters in length Seafarers Medical Certificate ENG11, with approved eyesight test
- A Notice of Eligibility (NOE) is required to sit the written examinations
Progression
On receipt of valid Notice of Eligibility, the candidate will be able to sit Department of Transport Marine Survey Office (MSO) examinations for a Second-Hand Limited Certificate of Competency and will be equipped with the knowledge required to sit an oral examination held by the MSO.
Employment Opportunities
This Certificate of Competency, with certain ancillary courses, will enable the learner to sail as Skipper, or as an Officer of the Watch on-board certain classes of fishing vessels.
Assessment
Department of Transport written and oral examinations.
Fees
Course €175
Written exam – €146
Programme Overview 
