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 essential 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 28 April 2025 and ends on 8 November 2026. The training is divided into three theoretical phases, held at the River Academy Danube Campus in Slovakia (30 April – 23 May 2025, 5 January – 1 February 2026, 20 July – 16 August 2026), including examination periods on campus (29 – 30 January 2026 and 10 – 14 August 2026).

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

During the practical training phases on board, participants undertake several voyages, scheduled in multiple blocks: 9 June – 6 July 2025, 21 July – 17 August 2025, 1 September – 28 September 2025, 13 October – 9 November 2025, 24 November – 21 December 2025, 16 February – 15 March 2026, 30 March – 26 April 2026, 11 May – 7 June 2026, 22 June – 19 July 2026, 31 August – 27 September 2026, and 12 October – 8 November 2026.

Rest periods are scheduled between the training blocks: 24 May – 8 June 2025, 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, 16 March – 29 March 2026, 27 April – 10 May 2026, 8 June – 21 June 2026, 17 August – 30 August 2026, and 28 September – 11 October 2026. Dates may be subject to change.

This training programme is designed for participants with at least 500 days of experience on seagoing vessels within the deck department, as well as for career changers without an inland navigation service record book (River Book). The course follows a “learning by doing” approach, combining theoretical training at the River Academy Campus in Slovakia with practical instruction on board an inland vessel.

The programme is divided into three parts: 12 weeks of theory (in three blocks of four weeks), approximately 40 weeks of on-board practical time, and around 24 weeks of leave, organised in coordination with the employer. Participants are specifically prepared for the Boatmaster’s Certificate examination and receive comprehensive training in nautical, technical, and safety-related subjects. During the theory phases at the campus, participants also have access to a fitness area for 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 in Applying 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 overall 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 in single rooms at €5,040.00 (approx. €82 per night).