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 Boatmaster’s Certificate (Union Patent). Through a combination of theoretical instruction and practical experience on board, participants acquire the essential skills for safe and efficient vessel operation.

Description

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

The course begins on 9 June 2025 and ends on 20 December 2026. Training is divided into three theoretical phases held at the River Academy Danube Campus in Slovakia (9 June – 6 July 2025, 16 March – 12 April 2026, 31 August – 27 September 2026), including examination periods at the campus.

In addition, participants complete the Sailor Trainee Qualification in June 2025, followed by the final Sailor Qualification in March/April 2026.

During the practical training phases on board, participants undertake several voyages, scheduled in blocks as follows:
21 July – 17 August 2025, 1 September – 28 September 2025, 13 October – 9 November 2025, 24 November – 21 December 2025, 5 January – 1 February 2026, 16 February – 15 March 2026, 27 April – 24 May 2026, 8 June – 5 July 2026, 20 July – 16 August 2026, 12 October – 8 November 2026, and 23 November – 20 December 2026.

Time off is scheduled between the training blocks as follows:
7 July – 20 July 2025, 18 August – 31 August 2025, 29 September – 12 October 2025, 10 November – 23 November 2025, 22 December 2025 – 4 January 2026, 2 February – 15 February 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, and 9 November – 22 November 2026. Dates may be subject to change.

This training programme is intended 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 follows a “learning by doing” approach, with theoretical instruction at the River Academy Campus in Slovakia and practical training on board an inland vessel.

The training is divided into three parts:

• 12 weeks of theory (in three blocks of four weeks)

• Approximately 40 weeks of on-board practical training

• Around 24 weeks of leave, coordinated with the employer

Participants are specifically prepared for the Union Boatmaster’s Certificate examination and receive comprehensive instruction in navigation, technical operations, and onboard safety procedures. A fitness area is available at the campus during the theory phases, offering opportunities for physical activity and individual training.

Please refer to our general terms and conditions for information on 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 Theoretical Training

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

• 360 Hours of Practical and Theoretical Training in 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 consists of 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 single rooms at €5,040.00 (approx. €82 per night).