Patent Course – 18-Month Training Programme

Aim

The aim of the course is to provide intensive preparation for the management-level examination required to obtain the Union Boatmaster’s Certificate (Union Patent). Through a combination of theoretical instruction and practical experience on board, participants acquire the necessary skills for safe and efficient vessel command.

Description

Important Note:
The end dates displayed in the booking window refer only to the first module of the course. Please refer to the course description below for the complete training schedule.

The course begins on 7 July 2025 and ends on 20 December 2026. The training is structured into three theoretical phases, held at the River Academy Danube Campus in Slovakia (7 July – 3 August 2025, 16 March – 12 April 2026, 12 October – 8 November 2026), including examination periods on campus (9 – 10 April 2026 and 5 – 6 November 2026).

In addition, participants complete the Sailor Trainee Qualification starting in October 2025, followed by the final Sailor Qualification in July 2026.

During the practical training period on board, participants complete several voyages, organised in blocks as follows: 18 August – 14 September 2025, 29 September – 26 October 2025, 10 November – 7 December 2025, 22 December 2025 – 18 January 2026, 2 February – 1 March 2026, 27 April – 24 May 2026, 8 June – 5 July 2026, 20 July – 16 August 2026, 31 August – 27 September 2026, and 23 November – 20 December 2026.

Time off is scheduled between the training blocks: 4 August – 17 August 2025, 15 September – 28 September 2025, 27 October – 9 November 2025, 8 December – 21 December 2025, 19 January – 1 February 2026, 2 March – 15 March 2026, 13 April – 26 April 2026, 25 May – 7 June 2026, 6 July – 19 July 2026, 17 August – 30 August 2026, 28 September – 11 October 2026, 9 November – 22 November 2026, and 21 December – 31 December 2026. Dates are subject to change.

This training programme is designed for participants with at least 500 days of experience on seagoing vessels in the deck department, as well as for career changers who do not yet possess an inland navigation service record book (River Book). The course is based on a “learning by doing” approach, with theoretical instruction provided at the River Academy Campus in Slovakia and practical training carried out on board an inland vessel.

The programme consists of 12 weeks of theory (in three blocks of four weeks), approximately 40 weeks of on-board training, and around 24 weeks of leave, all organised in coordination with the employer. Participants are specifically prepared for the Union Boatmaster’s Certificate examination and receive comprehensive training in navigation, technical systems, and safety procedures. During the theory phases at the campus, a fitness area is available for exercise and individual training.

Please refer to our general terms and conditions for information regarding cancellation policies.

Content

• Fundamentals of Inland Navigation and Legal Frameworks

• Navigation, Manoeuvring Techniques, and Radar Operation

• Communication and Radio Training (including a basic German course for VHF radio communication)

• On-board Safety and Emergency Management

• 40 Hours of Boatmaster-Specific Theory

• 40 Hours of Simulator Training for Vessel Command under Realistic Conditions

• 360 Hours of Practical and Theoretical Training for Safe River Navigation

• Support with Applications for Medical Examinations, Qualifications, and Certificates in accordance with Slovak authority requirements

Further information

The total cost of the course is payable in three instalments.
The total price includes a €17,170.00 course fee, €1,848.00 for full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, beverages), and accommodation costs.

Accommodation is available in shared rooms at €2,520.00 (approx. €52 per night) or in single rooms at €5,040.00 (approx. €82 per night).