All Courses

Each year River Academy offers a diverse mix of training courses for the inland navigation industry. To make it easier for you to find a suitable course, we have divided the entire range of courses into individual categories. At the same time, you will receive a course description of the training measure to give you an initial compact overview.

When booking a course, “Basic Service” refers to the price excluding hotel or accommodation. “Full Service” refers to the price of the course including hotel accommodation.

The following list shows the current courses for the calendar year 2024 and 2025.

You have not found the right course or you have questions? No problem!

Click here to send an email and we will be happy to help you!

Alternatively, you can also access our FAQ page by clicking on the button below.

AUTHORITIES

Fire protection assistant in the company – compact course

Aim

After the compact basic training in hazard prevention in on-board operations, those starting their careers or changing careers receive the required service record book for integration into the on-board community.

Description

A number of legal standards already present companies in Germany with a variety of challenges when it comes to ensuring the safety and health of their employees in the workplace. Nevertheless, with the entry into force of the Inland Navigation Personnel Ordinance on January 17, 2022 (BinSchPersV), the topic of safety for the entry level was taken up from the EU directive.

In short, for those starting a career in inland navigation or changing careers to enter inland navigation, a basic safety training course is required in addition to the aptitude test for the initial issue of a boatmaster’s service book by the Waterways and Shipping Office.

In our opinion, the training duration of three days in accordance with the BinSchPersV appeared relatively short, so we emphasize a four-day training course with a substantial practical component. The implementation of the four-day training concept, combined with the self-motivation of the young professionals, will provide the basis for a high level of safety awareness. The bottom line is that the tasks to be performed on board an inland vessel are carried out safely and with as few accidents as possible. We see raising awareness of the need for conscious action as one of the prerequisites for accident-free work on board!

Our training concept is recognized by the General Directorate for Waterways and Shipping.

Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact).

Entry level in inland navigation

Aim

After the compact basic training in hazard prevention on board, those starting their careers or changing careers receive the necessary boatman’s service book to integrate them into the on-board community.

Description

A number of legal standards already present companies in Germany with a variety of challenges when it comes to ensuring the safety and health of their employees in the workplace. Nevertheless, with the entry into force of the Inland Navigation Personnel Ordinance on January 17, 2022 (BinSchPersV), the topic of safety for the entry level was adopted from the EU directive.

In short, for those starting a career in inland navigation or changing careers to enter inland navigation, a basic safety training course is required in addition to the aptitude test for the initial issue of a boatmaster’s service book by the Waterways and Shipping Office.

In our opinion, the training duration of three days in accordance with the BinSchPersV appeared relatively short, so we emphasize a four-day training course with a substantial practical component. The implementation of the four-day training concept, combined with the self-motivation of the young professionals, will provide the basis for a high level of safety awareness. The bottom line is that the tasks to be performed on board an inland vessel are carried out safely and with as few accidents as possible. We see raising awareness of the need for conscious action as one of the prerequisites for accident-free work on board!

Our training concept is recognized by the General Directorate for Waterways and Shipping.

Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Rhine risk route

Aim

After receiving your authority certificate from the Directorate-General for Waterways and Shipping (GDWS), you will be able to take on the responsible tasks of a skipper on board official vessels. You bear the main responsibility for your crew and for the safe nautical/technical use of the vessel on the waterway.

Description

The personnel development planning of the authorities includes, among other things, the promotion of junior staff to ensure safety on the waterways. Ultimately, the challenges of demographic change must be overcome, because the existing shortage of skilled workers, particularly in the profession of boatmaster, must be counteracted with sufficiently qualified crew members for authority vessels.

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Further information is available via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Specific topics to be agreed

Aim

An emergency operation can occur at any time, which is why this training will support the responsible boatmaster in fulfilling his responsibility for his crew and the safe operation of the authority vessel.

Description

(Scheduling for 2024 and 2025 will be done individually in coordination with the relevant authority in connection with the availability of the simulator.)

The official personnel development plan includes, among other things, the promotion of junior staff to ensure safety on the waterways. In principle, acquiring the prescribed qualifications for operating the respective vehicle is sufficient for this.

Fortunately, emergency operations on the waterways are not part of the daily business of rescue workers. However, due to the lack of routine and/or daily operations, there is a lack of practical experience in the field of emergency operations. In this case, simulator training becomes an essential and effective component to compensate for the lack of practical experience. In a manageable period of time, coordinated scenarios for safe emergency response can be practiced preventively without risk to people or “material”.

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Further information is available via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Dangerous Goods Officer – Basic Training

Aim

You will acquire the required expertise for the transport of dangerous goods in order to take on the demanding role of a dangerous goods officer in the field of inland waterway shipping.

Description

Once a company is involved in the transport of dangerous goods and is assigned obligations as a participant in the Dangerous Goods Regulation for Inland Waterways, a dangerous goods officer must be appointed in writing. Dangerous goods officers must have successfully completed a basic course for dangerous goods officers before their appointment. We offer you a basic training recognized by the Duisburg Chamber of Commerce (IHK), including the “General Section” and the “Inland Waterway Transport” module. After passing the IHK exam, you will receive a training certificate valid for five years. Contact us here for more information.

Hazardous Goods Officer – Further Training

Aim

You will make use of our expert knowledge to optimally prepare for the IHK exam and extend your dangerous goods officer qualification.

Description

We recommend attending an “exam preparation course” well in advance of the five-year validity period of the training certificate. It is the responsibility of the dangerous goods officer to ensure that their training certificate is extended before it expires. The exam can already be taken in the last twelve months before the validity period ends — without any loss of time. After passing the IHK exam, the validity period will be extended by the IHK for another five years. This advanced training is focused on “Inland Waterway Transport.”

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For more information, you can receive it through the following link (active courses) or by contacting us here.

Course in Two Modules (One Total Price)

Aim

By successfully completing the course, you will be able to take on the responsible tasks in technical onboard operations.

Description

(Training plans for 2024 and 2025 will be arranged individually in coordination with the client.)

This course is recognized by the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport, so that after passing the final exam, participants can have the position of “Qualified Mechanic” recorded in their Seaman’s Book by a Waterways and Shipping Office (WSA). The application must be submitted in writing or electronically to a WSA using the form provided by them.

Qualified crew members are deployed on board inland vessels. Depending on the ship’s operating time and the type of vehicle, different qualifications are required to maintain the journey. Our compact course offers the option to prepare intensively for technical tasks on board.

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For more information, you can receive it through the following button (active courses) or by contacting us here.

VHF Radio Operator Certificate for Inland Waterway Radio (UBI)

Aim

With the VHF Radio Operator Certificate for Inland Waterway Radio (UBI), you are authorized to participate in inland waterway radio communication.

Description

(Training dates for 2025 will be published in October 2024.)

If a radio device is installed on board, the operator must possess a radio operator’s certificate or a radio certificate. The VHF Radio Operator Certificate for Inland Waterways (UBI) allows participation in inland waterway radio communication on waterways in Zones 1 to 4 (inland waterways and sea-going waterways “inland of the maritime boundary”) after passing the exam.

It is also important to note that since the implementation of the BinSchPersV, presenting the UBI radio certificate to the Waterways and Shipping Administration is required to register the position of “Steersman/Steerswoman” in the Seaman’s Book. In short: pure sailing times based on previous entries are no longer sufficient.

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For more information, you can receive it through the following button (active courses) or by contacting us here.

Cargo/ Freight Shipping

Legal basis: RPN / Including professional knowledge for career changers

Aim

The issue of the Rhine patent (first patent) by the Swiss Rhine ports in Basel (SRH) allows you to take on management tasks as a skipper on board vessels of all types and sizes on inland waterways. With the first patent, you have the option to acquire the “Rhine risk route” and “Maritime waterways”.

Description

With the updated Rhine Vessel Inspection Regulation, the standards of competence were aligned with the European standards in accordance with EU Directive 2017/2397 “Professional qualifications in inland navigation”.

Obtaining the Rhine patent (first patent) also enables career changers on inland waterways to move up from the operational level to the management level. We have developed a training concept to prepare you for the GDWS patent examination in the best possible way. It is not enough to navigate an inland vessel from “A” to “B”; rather, the ship’s command is expected to safely operate the inland vessel. The size of an inland vessel plays a subordinate role in this.

Responsible ship management includes interpreting all nautical and technical decisions in terms of safe transportation of goods on European waterways and/or the transportation of passengers. Understanding and observing national and international regulations is important in order to be able to take precautions for voyage planning. The relevant national and international legal sources must be observed.

The high demands on the crew require the management to consciously assume overall responsibility. Managing day-to-day operations on board, whether freight, passenger, push boat or ferry transport, is a matter of course. Accidents, regardless of their nature, must be avoided at all times. Thorough training and preparation for taking on this main responsibility is essential.

Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Legal basis: RPN

Aim

The issue of the Rhine patent (first patent) by the Port of Switzerland in Basel (SRH) allows you to take on the role of skipper on board vessels of any type or size on inland waterways. With the first patent, you have the option to acquire the “Rhine Risk Route” and “Maritime Waterways”.

Description

(Scheduling for 2025 will take place in December 2024 in coordination with the SRH in Basel.)

With the updated RhineVesselInspectionRegulation, the standards of competence have been aligned with the European standards in accordance with EU Directive 2017/2397 “Professional qualifications in inland navigation”.

Obtaining the Rhine Patent (First Patent) also enables career changers on inland waterways to move up from the operational level to the management level. We have developed a training concept to prepare you for the GDWS patent examination in the best possible way. It is not enough to navigate an inland vessel from “A” to “B”; rather, the ship’s command is expected to safely operate the inland vessel. The size of an inland vessel plays a subordinate role in this.

Responsible ship management includes interpreting all nautical and technical decisions in terms of safe transportation of goods on European waterways and/or the transportation of passengers. Understanding and observing national and international regulations is important in order to be able to take precautions for voyage planning. The relevant national and international legal sources must be observed.

The high demands on the crew require the management to consciously assume the main responsibility. Managing the day-to-day business on board, whether it is freight, passenger, push boat shipping or in a ferry operation, is a matter of course. Accidents, regardless of their nature, must be avoided at all times. Sound training and preparation for taking on this main responsibility is essential.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Legal basis BinSchPersV / Including professional knowledge for career changers

Aim

The common goal is to successfully implement a compact and at the same time practice-oriented preparation for the GDWS exams in order to lay the foundation for career advancement to the management level.

Description

With the transposition of the EU Directive 2017/2397 “Professional Qualifications in Inland Navigation” into national law, some changes came into force. At the same time, the standards of competence, i.e. the content and structure of examinations, were adapted to European standards in the Inland Navigation Personnel Ordinance.

The introduction of the Union patent also makes it possible for career changers on inland waterways to advance from the operational level to the management level of the on-board team. We have therefore developed a special training concept to prepare career changers in the best possible way for the GDWS patent examination.

It is not enough to navigate an inland vessel from “A” to “B”; rather, the ship’s command is expected to safely operate the inland vessel. The size of an inland vessel plays a subordinate role in this regard. Responsible ship management includes interpreting all nautical and technical decisions in terms of the safe transportation of goods on European waterways and/or the transportation of persons. Understanding and observing national and international regulations is important in order to be able to take precautions when planning a route. The relevant national and international legal sources must be observed.

The high demands on the crew require the management to consciously assume the main responsibility. Managing the day-to-day business on board, whether it is freight, passenger, push boat or ferry transport, is therefore a matter of course. Accidents, regardless of their nature, must be avoided at all times. Thorough training and preparation for taking on this main responsibility is essential.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Legal basis BinSchPersV

Aim

The common goal is to successfully implement a compact and at the same time practice-oriented preparation for the GDWS examinations in order to lay the foundation for career advancement to the management level.

Description

With the transposition of EU Directive 2017/2397 “Professional Qualifications in Inland Navigation” into national law, some changes came into force on January 18, 2022. At the same time, the qualification standards, i.e. the content and structure of the examination, were adapted to European standards with the Inland Waterways Personnel Ordinance.

It is not enough to navigate an inland vessel from “A” to “B”; rather, the ship’s command is expected to safely manage the inland vessel as a piece of equipment. The size of an inland vessel plays a subordinate role in this regard. Responsible ship management includes interpreting all nautical and technical decisions in terms of safe transportation of goods on European waterways and/or the transportation of passengers. Understanding and observing national and international regulations is important in order to take precautions when planning a route. The relevant national and international legal sources must be observed.

The high demands on the crew require the management to consciously assume the main responsibility. Managing the day-to-day business on board, whether it is freight, passenger, push boat or ferry transport, is a matter of course. Accidents, regardless of their nature, must be avoided at all times. Thorough training and preparation for taking on this main responsibility is essential.

The high demands on the crew require the management to consciously take on the main responsibility. Managing day-to-day operations on board, whether it is freight, passenger, push boat or ferry shipping, is therefore a matter of course. Accidents, regardless of their nature, must be avoided at all times. A sound education and preparation for taking on this main responsibility is essential.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Legal basis: BinSchPersV

Aim

The basic qualification Union Patent provides the basis for expanding personal areas of responsibility at the management level by acquiring the qualification “Maritime Waterways” or “Risk Route Rhine”.

Description

With the transposition of EU Directive 2017/2397 “Professional Qualifications in Inland Navigation” into national law, some changes came into force on January 18, 2022. At the same time, the standards of competence, i.e. the content and structure of the examination, were adapted to the European standards in the Inland Navigation Personnel Ordinance.

It is still possible to enter the profession from outside the industry, and that is a good thing. We have therefore developed this combined course to prepare lateral entrants as well as possible for further GDWS examinations for special qualifications. It is not enough to navigate an inland vessel from “A” to “B”; rather, the captain is expected to safely operate the inland vessel. In short, in addition to safely navigating a waterway, personal and professional qualifications are required. The size of an inland vessel plays a subordinate role here. Responsible ship management includes interpreting all nautical and technical decisions in terms of safe transportation of goods on European waterways and/or the transportation of passengers. Understanding and observing national and international regulations is important in order to be able to take precautions for professional and proper route planning. In doing so, relevant national and international legal sources must be observed. The high demands on the crew require conscious acceptance of the main responsibility by the management level. The day-to-day business is to be managed on board, whether it is freight, passenger, push boat or ferry transport.

A well-founded training and preparation for the assumption of the main responsibility is essential. The common goal will be to successfully implement a compact and at the same time practice-oriented preparation for the GDWS examinations in order to then lay the foundation for the extended range of management tasks.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Legal basis BinSchPersV

Aim

The basic qualification Union Patent provides the basis for expanding one’s personal areas of responsibility at the management level by acquiring the “Maritime Waterways” qualification.

Description

With the transposition of EU Directive 2017/2397 “Professional Qualifications in Inland Navigation” into national law, some changes came into force on January 18, 2022. At the same time, the standards of competence, i.e. the content and structure of examinations, were adapted to European standards in the Inland Waterways Personnel Ordinance.

It is still possible to enter the profession from outside the industry, and that is a good thing. We have therefore developed this course to prepare lateral entrants as well as possible for further GDWS examinations for special qualifications. It is not enough to navigate an inland vessel from “A” to “B”; rather, the captain is expected to safely operate the inland vessel. In short, in addition to the safe use of a waterway, personal and professional qualifications are required. The size of an inland vessel plays a subordinate role here.

Responsible ship management includes interpreting all nautical and technical decisions in terms of safe transportation of goods on European waterways and/or the transportation of passengers. Understanding and observing national and international regulations is important in order to be able to take precautions for professional and proper route planning. In doing so, relevant national and international legal sources must be observed. The high demands on the crew require conscious acceptance of the main responsibility by the management level. The day-to-day business is to be managed on board, whether it is freight, passenger, push boat or ferry transport.

A well-founded training and preparation for the assumption of the main responsibility is essential. The common goal will be to successfully implement a compact and at the same time practice-oriented preparation for the GDWS examinations in order to then lay the foundation for the extended range of management tasks.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Intensive training for the deck and management level

Aim

The training measure on board a moving ship provides the basics for the field of application at the deck level as well as for the management level.

Description

To acquire professional qualifications in inland navigation, several standards of competence must be met. These include, for example, in-depth professional knowledge as an inland navigation operator.

Tailored practical training for the deck and management levels is also planned for the 2024 calendar year, which will be based on the requirements of the qualifying examinations. Our radar and navigation simulator will ensure an additional and realistic learning experience. Navigating the Rhine stretch relevant to the exam with a “real” ship and on the simulator will deepen the learning content on the high-risk stretch. The right mix of “real” and simulation ensures that “daily business” can be practiced until it is mastered and thus perfected.

The high demands on the ship’s crew require conscious acceptance of the main responsibility, especially at the management level. The “daily business” has to be organized, whether it is cargo, passenger, push boat shipping or in a ferry operation. A well-founded training or adaptation of personal skills serves to prepare for the assumption of this responsibility.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Legal basis BinSchPersV

Aim

The basic qualification Union Patent provides the basis for expanding one’s personal areas of responsibility at the management level by acquiring the “Rhine risk route” qualification.

Description

With the transposition of EU Directive 2017/2397 “Professional Qualifications in Inland Navigation” into national law, some changes came into force on January 18, 2022. At the same time, the standards of competence, i.e. the content and structure of the examination, were adapted to European standards in the Inland Waterways Personnel Ordinance.

It is still possible to enter the profession from outside the industry, and that is a good thing. We have therefore developed this combined course to prepare lateral entrants in the best possible way for further GDWS examinations for special qualifications. It is not enough to navigate an inland vessel from “A” to “B”; rather, the ship’s command is expected to safely operate the inland waterway vessel. In short, in addition to the safe use of a waterway, personal and professional qualifications are required. The size of an inland vessel plays a subordinate role here. Responsible ship management includes interpreting all nautical and technical decisions in terms of safe transportation of goods on European waterways and/or the transportation of passengers. Understanding and observing national and international regulations is important in order to be able to take precautions for professional and proper route planning. In doing so, relevant national and international legal sources must be observed. The high demands on the crew require conscious acceptance of the main responsibility by the management level. The day-to-day business is to be managed on board, whether it is freight, passenger, push boat or ferry transport.

A well-founded training and preparation for the assumption of the main responsibility is essential. The common goal will be to successfully implement a compact and at the same time practice-oriented preparation for the GDWS examinations in order to then lay the foundation for the extended range of management tasks.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Theory and practice

Aim

As a holder of the special authorization for radar (formerly radar patent), you are able to supplement your work as a boatmaster with radar trips. This will have a positive influence on the economic success of your company and ensure that you remain a reliable partner for scheduling.

Description

Anyone who wants to navigate using radar must, in addition to the necessary authorization for the route to be navigated, also have the special authorization for radar or another radar certificate recognized by the CCNR. If the ship’s captain lacks this qualification, he is not allowed to continue the journey in inclement weather. This endangers the agreed loading and unloading deadlines in the event of adverse weather conditions.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Preparation written exam

Aim

As the holder of the special radar permit, you are able to supplement your work as a boatmaster with radar trips. This will have a positive impact on the commercial success of your company and ensure that you remain a reliable partner for scheduling.

Description

Anyone who wants to navigate using radar must, in addition to the necessary authorization for the route to be navigated, also have the special authorization for radar or another radar certificate recognized by the CCNR. If the ship’s captain lacks this qualification, he is not allowed to continue the journey in inclement weather. This endangers the agreed loading and unloading deadlines in the event of adverse weather conditions.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Module training for exam preparation

Aim

The participants receive the entry “Matrosin ‘ or ’Matrose” in the boatman’s service book from the water and shipping administration after the accumulated driving time and successfully passing the IHK administrative exam.

Description

The chances of making a career in inland navigation as a career changer by working as a boatmaster are very good due to the demand for skilled workers. It does not matter whether you have found a new professional challenge in freight shipping, passenger shipping or ferry operations.

According to the personnel regulations, the following is required to enter “sailor” or “mate” in the skipper’s logbook:

360 days of inland navigation sailing time or

180 days of inland navigation sailing time if 250 days of sailing time are available in ocean shipping

and a successfully passed administrative examination.

This means that the sole navigation time as a member of a deck crew is not sufficient for professional advancement. Our course aims to offer deck crew members the support they need to successfully complete the administrative examination in their professional development.

The advantage for inland navigation companies is that deckhands are intensively prepared for the IHK administrative examination and qualified for the ship’s crew. This ensures the minimum manning of the vehicles and the fleet’s operations.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Combination of dry cargo and tanker transport

Objective

You can assess the transport risks associated with dangerous goods and use your knowledge to minimize the risk of incidents.

Description

To increase safety when transporting dangerous goods, an ADN expert must be on board dangerous goods ships. “New” experts must first attend an ADN basic course. This training is provided as part of a course recognized by the relevant authority. To obtain the ADN certificate of competence, GDWS branch offices conduct specialized exams. After successfully passing the ADN specialist examination, the GDWS issues an ADN certificate of competence that is valid for five years.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Combination of dry cargo and tanker transport

Aim

You will continue to assess possible transport hazards associated with dangerous goods and minimize any incidents.

Description

This training is also provided as part of a course recognized by the competent authority. After successfully passing the final test, an application must be submitted to the GDWS to extend the still valid ADN certificate of competence by a further five years. If the refresher course was taken within the last year before the ADN certificate of competence expired, the new period of validity begins with the expiry date of the certificate.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Assess transport hazards associated with chemicals

Aim

You will also learn how to assess potential transport hazards associated with chemicals and how to minimize the impact of incidents.

Description

This training is provided as part of a course recognized by the competent authority. After attending the refresher course on chemicals, the ADN certificate of competence for chemicals can be renewed for a further five years by applying to the GDWS. If the refresher course was taken within the last year before the ADN certificate of competence expired, the new period of validity begins with the expiry date of the certificate; in all other cases, it begins with the date of the certificate of attendance.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Assess the risks associated with gas transportation

Aim

You can assess the risks associated with gas transportation and use your knowledge to minimize the impact of any incidents.

Description

To increase safety when transporting dangerous goods, an ADN expert must be on board “dangerous goods vessels”. For the transport of gases, the ADN expert must also take part in an ADN advanced gas course. The training is carried out as part of a course recognized by the competent authority. The GDWS branch offices conduct exams to obtain the ADN gas certificate of competence. After successfully passing the exam, the GDWS issues an ADN gas certificate of competence that is valid for five years.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Assess the risks associated with gas transportation

Aim

You will also learn how to assess potential hazards associated with gas transportation and how to minimize the impact of any incidents.

Description

This training is provided as part of a course recognized by the relevant authority. After the training, the ADN gas certificate of competence can be renewed for a further five years by applying to the GDWS. If the refresher course was taken within the last year before the expiry of the certificate, the new period of validity begins with the expiry date of the certificate; in all other cases, it begins with the date of the certificate of attendance.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Entry level in inland navigation

Aim

After the compact basic training in hazard prevention on board, those starting their careers or changing careers receive the necessary boatman’s service book to integrate them into the on-board community.

Description

A number of legal standards already present companies in Germany with a variety of challenges when it comes to ensuring the safety and health of their employees in the workplace. Nevertheless, with the entry into force of the Inland Navigation Personnel Ordinance on January 17, 2022 (BinSchPersV), the topic of safety for the entry level was adopted from the EU directive.

In short, for those starting a career in inland navigation or changing careers to enter inland navigation, a basic safety training course is required in addition to the aptitude test for the initial issue of a boatmaster’s service book by the Waterways and Shipping Office.

In our opinion, the training duration of three days in accordance with the BinSchPersV appeared relatively short, so we emphasize a four-day training course with a substantial practical component. The implementation of the four-day training concept, combined with the self-motivation of the young professionals, will provide the basis for a high level of safety awareness. The bottom line is that the tasks to be performed on board an inland vessel should be carried out safely and with as few accidents as possible. We see raising awareness of the need for conscious action as one of the prerequisites for accident-free work on board!

Our training concept is recognized by the Directorate-General for Waterways and Shipping.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Entry level in inland navigation

Aim

The VHF radio certificate for inland navigation (UBI) allows you to participate in inland navigation radio communications.

Description

(Training dates for 2025 will be published in October 2024.)

If a radio is installed on board, the person operating it must hold a radio operating certificate or a radio operator certificate. The VHF radio certificate Binnen (UBI) entitles the holder to participate in inland navigation radio on the waterways of zones 1 to 4 (inland waterways and maritime waterways “inland from the seafaring border”) after passing the examination.

It is also important to note that since the BinSchPersV came into force, the UBI radiotelephony certificate must be submitted to the Waterways and Shipping Administration in order to have the entry “helmsman” entered in the skipper’s service book. In short, the pure navigation times according to the previous entries are no longer sufficient.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Course in two modules (one total price)

Target

Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to take on the responsible tasks in technical on-board operations.

Description

(Training planning for 2024 and 2025 will be done individually in consultation with the customer.)

This course is recognized by the Federal Ministry of Digital and Transport, so that after passing the final examination, participants can get the function of machine technician entered in their service record book by a waterway and shipping office (WSA). The application is to be submitted in writing or electronically to a WSA using the form provided by it.

Qualified crew members are deployed on board inland waterway vessels. Depending on the operating time of the vessel and the type of vehicle, different qualifications are required to maintain the journey. Our compact course offers the option of intensive preparation for technical tasks on board.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Pushed barge navigation

Aim

The participants prepare effectively for deployment as a captain in pushed barge navigation.

Description

Once the necessary qualifications have been obtained, there is nothing to prevent a person from being promoted to captain. However, in addition to the legal standard, sufficient professional experience is also required, especially in push boat navigation, in order to be able to safely navigate the waterways to be navigated in conjunction with the necessary maneuvers. All maneuvers must be assessed with nautical foresight and must be designed in such a way that the general duty of care is not violated under any circumstances.

What captain wants to experience an emergency on board? Or how, for example, should behavior be practiced on board in the event of a rudder or engine failure? In such situations, experienced captains will find it easier to make decisions, so simulator training to support practical experience makes sense. Exercises in unusual situations can be carried out on the simulator without risk of damage, thus largely eliminating the risk of endangering people or damaging the vessel or other traffic during a captain’s day-to-day work.

Simulator training will not be able to replace on-board driving practice, nor is it intended to, but targeted, practice-oriented exercises can supplement on-board driving practice and thus accelerate the professional advancement of junior staff. The stress and psychological strain on the future captain is reduced and the last rung on the career ladder to becoming a captain is taken more confidently.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

GDWS exam preparation

Aim

The aim is to provide intensive preparation for the successful implementation of the last practical part of the GDWS exam “Reisedurchführung” to obtain the Union Patent.

Description

With the introduction of the BinSchPersV and the update of the RheinSchPersV, the qualification and examination standards have been adapted to the European requirements of the EU directive.

We have developed a training concept to prepare career changers for the GDWS examination for the acquisition of the Union Patent in the best possible way. After passing the written exam and the voyage planning, the last practical part of the exam is the execution of the voyage on the shallow water boat simulator SANDRA II in Duisburg-Homberg.

In various scenarios, the future ship’s command must make nautical and technical decisions to ensure the safe transport of goods or people on the waterways. Observing the relevant regulations, for example the BinSchStO, is essential in order to implement precautions for the safe execution of the voyage in a forward-looking manner.

The high demands placed on the ship’s command therefore require a conscious assumption of primary responsibility. Accidents, regardless of their nature, must be avoided at all times. Thorough preparation is therefore essential to ensure that the foundations of professional advancement to the management level are not disturbed.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Practice trips on the mountain stretch

Aim

The participants effectively train radar navigation on the mountain stretch.

Description

Descending through the mountain stretch at night is only allowed with the use of radar. In addition to this legal requirement, sufficient professional experience is also needed to be able to navigate this winding section of the Rhine with its special current conditions safely and without accidents.

Which captain wants to experience an emergency, especially in the mountainous section? Or how, for example, should one practice behavior in the event of an rudder or engine failure in this section? Experienced captains will be able to make decisions quickly, but what about the next generation of captains?

Exercises in unusual situations can always be carried out without risk on the simulator, thus largely eliminating the risk of endangering people, damaging the vessel or other traffic in the course of a skipper’s daily business.

Simulator training will not be able to replace practical experience on board, nor is it intended to, but it can be used to supplement practical experience on board with targeted, practice-oriented exercises. This training will reduce the stress and mental strain on the skipper, especially when navigating with the help of radar through mountainous terrain.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Members of the Professional Trainers Association of North Rhine-Westphalia receive a 10% discount on the net price of the basic service

Aim

With this recognized professional qualification, you will be able to take on the responsible tasks of a competent trainer in a company.

Description

(Training dates for 2025 will be published in October.)

Personnel development in a company begins with the training of junior staff. Thus, the trainer plays a key role in the company. The practice-oriented learning content according to AEVO (four fields of action) is taught in a compact way in this course. The course also includes new information for occupations in inland waterway transport. In cooperation with the North Rhine-Westphalia Association of Vocational Trainers, we have put together a training package that is specifically geared to inland waterway transport.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Members of the Berufsausbilder-Verband Nordrhein-Westfalen e.V. (Professional Association of Vocational Trainers in North Rhine-Westphalia) receive a 10% discount on the net price of the basic service.

Aim

One of the aims of the seminar is to set up a functioning evaluation system or to subject the existing system to an internal functional test.

Description

In cooperation with the Berufsausbilder-Verband Nordrhein-Westfalen e. V. (Professional Association of Trainers in North Rhine-Westphalia), we have put together this special training package. In-house personnel development begins with the training of junior staff, which means that training personnel play a key role in the company. The practice-oriented learning content is taught in compact form.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Members of the Professional Association of Trainers in North Rhine-Westphalia receive a 10% discount on the net price of the basic service.

Aim

You will learn how to carry out selection processes with confidence and skill, enabling you to evaluate application documents and participate in the recruitment of apprentices. Management can rely on your decisions.

Description

We have put together this special training package in cooperation with the North Rhine-Westphalia Association of Vocational Trainers. The annual selection of applicants is one step in the process of finding new apprentices. To help you make the right decisions in the actual selection of personnel, you will become aware of the different areas of competence and applicant profiles. Under the guidance of our experts, you will practise preparing for and conducting the central selection method in modern recruiting: the job interview.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Members of the Professional Trainers’ Association of North Rhine-Westphalia receive a 10% discount on the net price of the basic service.

Aim

As a company trainer, you take on (joint) responsibility for meeting the demand for new talent in the company and thus play a role in human resources development planning.

Description

We have put together this special training package in cooperation with the North Rhine-Westphalia Association of Vocational Trainers. When the new apprentices arrive, it is a busy time for the company trainers. Onboarding offers many advantages. The high level of attention paid to apprentices and parents at the beginning of the apprenticeship helps to ensure that they start the apprenticeship more motivated. This creates a closer bond with the company. For the newcomers, a well-developed onboarding process comes across as a sign of the quality of the training company and of the appreciation shown to the newcomers. Not to be underestimated is the decreasing fluctuation and thus increasing employee loyalty. Trainees who feel integrated remain loyal to the company for longer, are more committed and thus ensure that the company’s need for skilled workers is met.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Members of the Berufsausbilder-Verband Nordrhein-Westfalen e.V. (Professional Association of Vocational Trainers in North Rhine-Westphalia) receive a 10% discount on the net price of the basic service.

Aim

You will update your legal knowledge in vocational training in order to competently take on and help shape educational tasks in the company.

Description

We have put together this special training package in cooperation with the North Rhine-Westphalia Association of Vocational Trainers. Developing human resources in a company begins with training the next generation, which means that training personnel play a key role in the company. When training begins, the apprentices and companies have legal rights and obligations. Those who know their rights and obligations during training do not run the risk of inadvertently doing something wrong and thus gain confidence in dealing with superiors and colleagues. The practice-oriented learning content is taught in a compact way.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Practical training in correct behavior and action in respiratory emergencies

Aim

Participants learn how to behave appropriately in an emergency situation while wearing respiratory protection. As a safety squad, they are able to correctly assess an emergency situation and initiate the necessary measures.

Description

In this course, participants are prepared for deployment as a SCBA emergency operator. They learn to recognize various causes of SCBA emergencies and understand the appropriate behavior. Participants are confronted with different emergency situations as a safety squad in order to apply the correct rescue measures under the guidance of the trainers.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Passenger Shipping

Legal basis: RPN / Including professional knowledge for career changers

Aim

The issue of the Rhine patent (first patent) by the Swiss Rhine ports in Basel (SRH) allows you to take on management tasks as a skipper on board vessels of all types and sizes on inland waterways. With the first patent, you have the option to acquire the “Rhine risk route” and “Maritime waterways”.

Description

With the updated Rhine Vessel Inspection Regulation, the standards of competence were aligned with the European standards in accordance with EU Directive 2017/2397 “Professional qualifications in inland navigation”.

Obtaining the Rhine patent (first patent) also enables career changers on inland waterways to move up from the operational level to the management level. We have developed a training concept to prepare you for the GDWS patent examination in the best possible way. It is not enough to navigate an inland vessel from “A” to “B”; rather, the ship’s command is expected to safely operate the inland vessel. The size of an inland vessel plays a subordinate role in this.

Responsible ship management includes interpreting all nautical and technical decisions in terms of safe transportation of goods on European waterways and/or the transportation of passengers. Understanding and observing national and international regulations is important in order to be able to take precautions for voyage planning. The relevant national and international legal sources must be observed.

The high demands on the crew require the management to consciously assume the main responsibility. Managing the day-to-day business on board, whether it is freight, passenger, push boat or ferry shipping, is a matter of course. Accidents, regardless of their nature, must be avoided at all times. A well-founded training and preparation for taking on this main responsibility is essential.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Legal basis: RPN

Objective

The issue of the Rhine patent (first patent) by the Port of Switzerland in Basel (SRH) allows you to take on the role of skipper on board vessels of any type or size on inland waterways. With the first patent, you have the option to acquire the “Rhine Risk Route” and “Maritime Waterways”.

Description

(Scheduling for 2025 will take place in December 2024 in coordination with the SRH in Basel.)

With the updated RhineVesselInspectionRegulation, the standards of competence have been aligned with the European standards in accordance with EU Directive 2017/2397 “Professional qualifications in inland navigation”.

Obtaining the Rhine Patent (First Patent) also enables career changers on inland waterways to move up from the operational level to the management level. We have developed a training concept to prepare you for the GDWS patent examination in the best possible way. It is not enough to navigate an inland vessel from “A” to “B”; rather, the ship’s command is expected to safely operate the inland vessel. The size of an inland vessel plays a subordinate role in this.

Responsible ship management includes interpreting all nautical and technical decisions in terms of safe transportation of goods on European waterways and/or the transportation of passengers. Understanding and observing national and international regulations is important in order to be able to take precautions for voyage planning. The relevant national and international legal sources must be observed.

The high demands on the crew require the management to consciously assume the main responsibility. Managing the day-to-day business on board, whether it is freight, passenger, push boat shipping or in a ferry operation, is a matter of course. Accidents, regardless of their nature, must be avoided at all times. Sound training and preparation for taking on this main responsibility is essential.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Legal basis BinSchPersV / Including professional knowledge for career changers

Aim

The common goal is to successfully implement a compact and at the same time practice-oriented preparation for the GDWS exams in order to lay the foundation for career advancement to the management level.

Description

With the transposition of the EU Directive 2017/2397 “Professional Qualifications in Inland Navigation” into national law, some changes came into force. At the same time, the standards of competence, i.e. the content and structure of examinations, were adapted to European standards in the Inland Navigation Personnel Ordinance.

The introduction of the Union patent also makes it possible for career changers on inland waterways to advance from the operational level to the management level of the on-board team. We have therefore developed a special training concept to prepare career changers in the best possible way for the GDWS patent examination.

It is not enough to navigate an inland vessel from “A” to “B”; rather, the ship’s command is expected to safely operate the inland vessel. The size of an inland vessel plays a subordinate role in this regard. Responsible ship management includes interpreting all nautical and technical decisions in terms of the safe transportation of goods on European waterways and/or the transportation of persons. Understanding and observing national and international regulations is important in order to be able to take precautions when planning a route. The relevant national and international legal sources must be observed.

The high demands on the crew require the management to consciously assume the main responsibility. Managing the day-to-day business on board, whether it is freight, passenger, push boat or ferry transport, is therefore a matter of course. Accidents, regardless of their nature, must be avoided at all times. Thorough training and preparation for taking on this main responsibility is essential.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Legal basis BinSchPersV

Aim

The common goal is to successfully implement a compact and at the same time practice-oriented preparation for the GDWS exams in order to lay the foundation for career advancement to the management level.

Description

With the transposition of EU Directive 2017/2397 “Professional Qualifications in Inland Navigation” into national law, some changes came into force on January 18, 2022. At the same time, the qualification standards, i.e. the content and structure of the examination, were adapted to European standards with the Inland Waterways Personnel Ordinance.

It is not enough to navigate an inland vessel from “A” to “B”; rather, the ship’s command is expected to safely manage the inland vessel as a piece of equipment. The size of an inland vessel plays a subordinate role in this regard. Responsible ship management includes interpreting all nautical and technical decisions in terms of safe transportation of goods on European waterways and/or the transportation of passengers. Understanding and observing national and international regulations is important in order to take precautions when planning a route. The relevant national and international legal sources must be observed.

The high demands on the crew require the management to consciously assume the main responsibility. Managing the day-to-day business on board, whether it is freight, passenger, push boat or ferry transport, is a matter of course. Accidents, regardless of their nature, must be avoided at all times. Thorough training and preparation for taking on this main responsibility is essential.

The high demands on the crew require the management to consciously take on the main responsibility. Managing the day-to-day business on board, whether it is freight, passenger, push boat or ferry shipping, is therefore a matter of course. Accidents, regardless of their nature, must be avoided at all times. A sound education and preparation for taking on this main responsibility is essential.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Legal basis: BinSchPersV

Aim

The basic qualification Union Patent provides the basis for expanding personal areas of responsibility at the management level by acquiring the qualification “Maritime Waterways” or “Risk Route Rhine”.

Description

With the transposition of EU Directive 2017/2397 “Professional Qualifications in Inland Navigation” into national law, some changes came into force on January 18, 2022. At the same time, the standards of competence, i.e. the content and structure of the examination, were adapted to the European standards in the Inland Navigation Personnel Ordinance.

It is still possible to enter the profession from outside the industry, and that is a good thing. We have therefore developed this combined course to prepare lateral entrants as well as possible for further GDWS examinations for special qualifications. It is not enough to navigate an inland vessel from “A” to “B”; rather, the captain is expected to safely operate the inland vessel. In short, in addition to safely navigating a waterway, personal and professional qualifications are required. The size of an inland vessel plays a subordinate role here. Responsible ship management includes interpreting all nautical and technical decisions in terms of safe transportation of goods on European waterways and/or the transportation of passengers. Understanding and observing national and international regulations is important in order to be able to take precautions for professional and proper route planning. In doing so, relevant national and international legal sources must be observed. The high demands on the crew require conscious acceptance of the main responsibility by the management level. The day-to-day business is to be managed on board, whether it is freight, passenger, push boat or ferry transport.

A well-founded training and preparation for the assumption of the main responsibility is essential. The common goal will be to successfully implement a compact and at the same time practice-oriented preparation for the GDWS examinations in order to then lay the foundation for the extended range of management tasks.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Legal basis BinSchPersV

Aim

The basic qualification Union Patent provides the basis for expanding one’s personal areas of responsibility at the management level by acquiring the “Maritime Waterways” qualification.

Description

With the transposition of EU Directive 2017/2397 “Professional Qualifications in Inland Navigation” into national law, some changes came into force on January 18, 2022. At the same time, the standards of competence, i.e. the content and structure of examinations, were adapted to European standards in the Inland Waterways Personnel Ordinance.

It is still possible to enter the profession from outside the industry, and that is a good thing. We have therefore developed this course to prepare lateral entrants as well as possible for further GDWS examinations for special qualifications. It is not enough to navigate an inland vessel from “A” to “B”; rather, the captain is expected to safely operate the inland vessel. In short, in addition to the safe use of a waterway, personal and professional qualifications are required. The size of an inland vessel plays a subordinate role here.

Responsible ship management includes interpreting all nautical and technical decisions in terms of safe transportation of goods on European waterways and/or the transportation of passengers. Understanding and observing national and international regulations is important in order to be able to take precautions for professional and proper route planning. In doing so, relevant national and international legal sources must be observed. The high demands on the crew require conscious acceptance of the main responsibility by the management level. The day-to-day business is to be managed on board, whether it is freight, passenger, push boat or ferry transport.

A well-founded training and preparation for the assumption of the main responsibility is essential. The common goal will be to successfully implement a compact and at the same time practice-oriented preparation for the GDWS examinations in order to then lay the foundation for the extended range of management tasks.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Intensive training for the deck and management level

Aim

The training measure on board a moving ship provides the basics for the field of application at the deck and management level.

Description

To acquire professional qualifications in inland navigation, several standards of competence must be met. These include, for example, in-depth professional knowledge as an inland navigation operator.

Tailored practical training for the deck and management levels is also planned for the 2024 calendar year, which will be based on the requirements of the qualifying examinations. Our radar and navigation simulator will ensure an additional and realistic learning experience. Navigating the Rhine stretch relevant to the exam with a “real” ship and on the simulator will deepen the learning content on the high-risk stretch. The right mix of “real” and simulation ensures that “daily business” can be practiced until it is mastered and thus perfected.

The high demands on the ship’s crew require conscious acceptance of the main responsibility, especially at the management level. The “daily business” has to be organized, whether it is cargo, passenger, push boat shipping or in a ferry operation. A well-founded training or adaptation of personal skills serves to prepare for the assumption of this responsibility.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Legal basis BinSchPersV

Aim

The basic qualification Union Patent provides the basis for expanding one’s personal areas of responsibility at the management level by acquiring the “Rhine risk route” qualification.

Description

With the transposition of EU Directive 2017/2397 “Professional Qualifications in Inland Navigation” into national law, some changes came into force on January 18, 2022. At the same time, the standards of competence, i.e. the content and structure of the examination, were adapted to European standards in the Inland Waterways Personnel Ordinance.

It is still possible to enter the profession from outside the industry, and that is a good thing. We have therefore developed this combined course to prepare lateral entrants in the best possible way for further GDWS examinations for special qualifications. It is not enough to navigate an inland vessel from “A” to “B”; rather, the ship’s command is expected to safely operate the inland waterway vessel. In short, in addition to the safe use of a waterway, personal and professional qualifications are required. The size of an inland vessel plays a subordinate role here. Responsible ship management includes interpreting all nautical and technical decisions in terms of safe transportation of goods on European waterways and/or the transportation of passengers. Understanding and observing national and international regulations is important in order to be able to take precautions for professional and proper route planning. In doing so, relevant national and international legal sources must be observed. The high demands on the crew require conscious acceptance of the main responsibility by the management level. The day-to-day business is to be managed on board, whether it is freight, passenger, push boat or ferry transport.

A well-founded training and preparation for the assumption of the main responsibility is essential. The common goal will be to successfully implement a compact and at the same time practice-oriented preparation for the GDWS examinations in order to then lay the foundation for the extended range of management tasks.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Theory and practice

Aim

As a holder of the special authorization for radar (formerly radar patent), you are able to supplement your work as a boatmaster with radar trips. This will have a positive influence on the economic success of your company and ensure that you remain a reliable partner for scheduling.

Description

Anyone who wants to navigate using radar must, in addition to the necessary authorization for the route to be navigated, also have the special authorization for radar or another radar certificate recognized by the CCNR. If the ship’s captain lacks this qualification, he is not allowed to continue the journey in inclement weather. This endangers the agreed loading and unloading deadlines in the event of adverse weather conditions.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Preparation written exam

Aim

As the holder of the special radar permit, you are able to supplement your work as a boatmaster with radar trips. This will have a positive impact on the commercial success of your company and ensure that you remain a reliable partner for scheduling.

Description

Anyone who wants to navigate using radar must, in addition to the necessary authorization for the route to be navigated, also have the special authorization for radar or another radar certificate recognized by the CCNR. If the ship’s captain lacks this qualification, he is not allowed to continue the journey in inclement weather. This endangers the agreed loading and unloading deadlines in the event of adverse weather conditions.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Module training for exam preparation

Aim

The participants receive the entry “Matrosin ‘ or ’Matrose” in the boatman’s service book from the water and shipping administration after the accumulated driving time and successfully passing the IHK administrative exam.

Description

3 on-site modules at the academy.

The chances of making a career in inland navigation as a career changer by working as a boatmaster are very good due to the demand for skilled workers. It does not matter whether you have found a new professional challenge in freight shipping, passenger shipping or ferry operations.

According to the personnel regulations, the following is required to enter “sailor” or “mate” in the skipper’s logbook:

360 days of inland navigation sailing time or

180 days of inland navigation sailing time if 250 days of sailing time are available in ocean shipping

and a successfully passed administrative examination.

This means that the sole navigation time as a member of a deck crew is not sufficient for professional advancement. Our course aims to offer deck crew members the support they need to successfully complete the administrative examination in their professional development.

The advantage for inland navigation companies is that deckhands are intensively prepared for the IHK administrative examination and qualified for the ship’s crew. This ensures the minimum manning of the vehicles and the fleet’s operations.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

BMDV-approved further training programme in accordance with BinSchPersV

Aim

After 90 days of sailing time – within the nine-month further training programme – and having successfully passed the IHK administrative examination, participants receive the entry ‘Matrosin “ or ”Matrose’ (sailor) in their service record book from the Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration.

Description

The chances of making a career as a crew member in inland navigation, even as a career changer, are very good due to the demand for skilled workers. It does not matter whether you are looking for a new professional challenge in freight or passenger shipping or in ferry operations.

Once the decision has been made to change careers, a targeted further training course is the right choice to enable you to combine your previous professional experience with your new responsibilities as a crew member as quickly as possible.

The nine-month further training programme helps to reduce the existing demand for skilled workers. At the same time, it offers people interesting career prospects in inland navigation. For inland navigation companies, it offers the advantage of being able to qualify people from another profession as crew members within a manageable time frame, thus ensuring the rotation of the fleet. The right mix of ‘old hands’ and motivated newcomers who are passionate about operational and personal success brings a positive dynamic to the team.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Passenger navigation experts – basic course

Aim

After you have successfully passed the final examination, you will receive a certificate of competence for passenger navigation from the Waterways and Shipping Administration, which is valid for five years. During this time, you can take on important safety tasks on board your vehicle.

Description

The training of security personnel on board passenger ships is regulated in the BinSchPersV and the RheinSchPersV. According to these regulations, security personnel with different tasks must be on board passenger ships when passengers are on board.

We offer you a high degree of flexibility in scheduling – before, during or after the season. We also conduct our courses at our customers’ premises. With our typical practical components, we achieve a basis for easier understanding of the inland navigation-specific learning content for career changers and/or on-board personnel.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Refresher course for passenger navigation experts

Aim

After you have successfully passed the final examination, the Water and Shipping Administration will extend your certificate of competence for passenger navigation for a further five years. After that, you will still be able to take on important safety tasks for your passengers.

Description

The training of safety personnel on board passenger ships is regulated in the RhineVesselInspectionRegulation and the German Vessel Inspection Regulation for Inland Waterways. According to these regulations, safety personnel with different tasks must be on board passenger ships when passengers are on board. We offer you flexibility in scheduling – before, during or after the season – and are not tied to a specific location. According to the Rhine Vessel Inspection Regulation or the German Federal Inspection Regulation for Inland Waterways, the expert for passenger shipping must take a refresher course recognised by the competent authority if the still valid certificate of competence is to be extended for a further five years.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Safety Training for Deck Crew

Aim

Young professionals or career changers receive the necessary skipper’s service book for integration into the on-board community after the compact basic training to avert danger in on-board operations.

Description

A number of legal standards already present companies in Germany with a variety of challenges when it comes to ensuring the safety and health of their employees in the workplace. Nevertheless, with the entry into force of the Inland Navigation Personnel Ordinance on 17 January 2022 (BinSchPersV), the topic of safety for the entry level was taken up from the EU directive.

In short, for those starting their careers or changing careers in inland navigation, a basic safety training course is required in addition to the aptitude test in order to obtain an initial boatmaster’s book from the Waterways and Shipping Office.

In our opinion, the training period of three days in accordance with the BinSchPersV appeared relatively short, so we emphasise a four-day training course with a substantial practical component. The implementation of the four-day training concept, combined with the self-motivation of the young professionals, will provide the basis for a high level of safety awareness. The bottom line is that the tasks to be performed on board an inland waterway vessel must be carried out safely and with as few accidents as possible. We see raising awareness of the need for conscious action as one of the prerequisites for accident-free work on board!

Our training concept is recognised by the General Directorate for Waterways and Shipping.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Entry level in inland navigation

Aim

With the VHF radio certificate for inland shipping (UBI), you are allowed to participate in inland shipping radio communications.

Description

Training dates for 2025 will be published in October 2024.

If a radio is installed on board, the radio operator must hold a radio operator’s certificate or a radio operator’s certificate. The VHF radio certificate for inland waterways (UBI) entitles the holder to participate in inland navigation radio on the waterways of zones 1 to 4 (inland waterways and maritime waterways ‘inland from the seafaring border’) after passing the examination.

It is also important to note that since the BinSchPersV came into force, the UBI radiotelephony certificate must be submitted to the Waterways and Shipping Administration in order to be entered as ‘helmsman’ in the skipper’s service book. In short, the pure navigation times according to the previous entries are no longer sufficient.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Passenger shipping

Aim

The participants gain valuable experience in responsible ship handling before, during and after a convoy trip.

Description

Participation in major events, such as ‘Rhine in Flames’ in Koblenz, is an integral part of the seasonal planning for many passenger operators. However, safe sailing in a convoy requires sufficient professional experience to be able to assess dangers in good time – especially in the dark.

The ship’s command must assess all manoeuvres with nautical foresight and organise them in such a way that the general duty of care is not violated under any circumstances.

Simulator training will not be able to replace practical experience, but it will provide considerable support. Exercises in unusual situations can be carried out on the simulator without risk of damage, thus largely eliminating the risk of endangering people or damaging the ship.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

GDWS exam preparation

Aim

The aim is to provide intensive preparation for the successful implementation of the last practical part of the GDWS exam ‘Reisedurchführung’ (conducting a voyage) to obtain the Union Patent.

Description

With the introduction of the BinSchPersV and the update of the RheinSchPersV, the qualification and examination standards have been adapted to the European requirements of the EU directive.

We have developed a training concept to prepare career changers for the GDWS examination for the Union Patent in the best possible way. After passing the written exam and the voyage planning, the last practical part of the exam is the execution of the voyage on the shallow water boat simulator SANDRA II in Duisburg-Homberg.

In various scenarios, the future ship’s command must make nautical and technical decisions to ensure the safe transport of goods or passengers on the waterways. Observing the relevant regulations, for example the BinSchStO, is essential in order to implement precautions for the safe execution of the voyage in a forward-looking manner.

The high demands placed on the ship’s command therefore require a conscious assumption of primary responsibility. Accidents, regardless of their nature, must be avoided at all times. Thorough preparation is therefore essential to ensure that the foundations of professional advancement to the management level are not disturbed.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Practice trips on the mountain stretch

Aim

The participants effectively train radar navigation on the mountain stretch.

Description

Descending through the mountain stretch at night is only allowed with the use of radar. In addition to this legal requirement, sufficient professional experience is also needed to be able to navigate this winding section of the Rhine with its special current conditions safely and without accidents.

Which captain wants to experience an emergency, especially in the mountainous section? Or how, for example, should one practice the behaviour in the event of an rudder or engine failure in this section? Experienced captains will be able to make decisions quickly, but what about the next generation of captains?

Exercises in unusual situations can always be carried out without risk on the simulator, thus largely eliminating the risk of endangering people, damaging the vessel or other traffic in the course of a skipper’s daily business.

Simulator training will not be able to replace practical experience on board, nor is it intended to, but it can be used to supplement practical experience on board with targeted, practice-oriented exercises. This training will reduce the stress and psychological strain on the skipper, especially when navigating with the help of radar through mountainous terrain.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Legal basis BinSchPersV

Aim

You will receive a good overview of the necessary legal basis for acquiring the ferry boatman’s licence as a career changer. This will enable you to recognise and legally evaluate dangerous situations in order to avoid possible accidents.

Description

The course content is taught with a focus on practical relevance, in order to ensure the basis for the future ferry boatman’s task.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Basic preparation for the written GDWS examination

Aim

As a ferry boat captain and holder of the radar licence, you will be able to supplement your ferry boat captain activities with qualified and authorised radar trips even in inclement weather.

Description

Anyone who wants to navigate with the aid of radar in poor visibility must hold the boatmaster’s certificate and the special authorisation for radar (formerly radar licence) or hold another radar certificate recognised by the CCNR. This ensures that the timetable can be adhered to even in poor visibility.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Training at the ferry crossing

Aim

As a ferryman and holder of the radar licence, you will be able to supplement your ferryman activities with qualified and authorised radar trips even in poor visibility.

Description

(Individual appointment scheduling before the GDWS exam)

Anyone who wants to navigate with the aid of radar in conditions of poor visibility must hold the boatmaster’s certificate and the special authorisation for radar (formerly radar licence) or hold another radar certificate recognised by the CCNR. This will enable the timetable to be adhered to even in conditions of poor visibility. The examination training at the ferry crossing will make it easier for the examinee to meet the examination requirements.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Members of the Professional Trainers’ Association of North Rhine-Westphalia receive a 10% discount on the net price of the basic service

Aim

With this recognised professional qualification, you will be able to take on the responsible tasks of a competent trainer in a company.

Description

(Training dates for 2025 will be published in October.)

In-house personnel development begins with the training of junior staff. Thus, the trainer plays a key role in the company. The practice-oriented learning content according to AEVO (four fields of action) is taught in a compact way in this course. The course also includes new information for occupations in inland waterway transport. In cooperation with the North Rhine-Westphalia Association of Vocational Trainers, we have put together a training package that is specifically geared to inland waterway transport.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Members of the Berufsausbilder-Verband Nordrhein-Westfalen e.V. (Professional Association of Vocational Trainers in North Rhine-Westphalia) receive a 10% discount on the net price of the basic service.

Aim

One of the aims of the seminar is to set up a functioning evaluation system or to subject the existing system to an internal functional test.

Description

We have put together this special training package in cooperation with the North Rhine-Westphalia Professional Trainers Association. In-house personnel development begins with the training of junior staff, which means that trainers play a key role in the company. The practice-oriented learning content is taught in compact form.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Members of the Professional Association of Trainers in North Rhine-Westphalia receive a 10% discount on the net price of the basic service.

Aim

You will learn how to carry out selection processes with confidence and skill, how to evaluate application documents and how to participate in the recruitment of apprentices. Management can rely on your decisions.

Description

We have put together this special training package in cooperation with the North Rhine-Westphalia Professional Trainers’ Association. The annual selection of applicants is one step in the process of finding new apprentices. To help you make the right decisions in the actual selection of personnel, you will become aware of the different areas of competence and applicant profiles. Under the guidance of our experts, you will practise preparing for and conducting the central selection method in modern recruiting: the job interview.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Members of the Professional Trainers’ Association of North Rhine-Westphalia receive a 10% discount on the net price of the basic service.

Aim

As a company trainer, you take on (co-)responsibility for meeting the demand for new talent in the company and thus play a role in human resources development planning.

Description

We have put together this special training package in cooperation with the North Rhine-Westphalia Association of Vocational Trainers. When the new apprentices arrive, it is a challenge for the in-house trainers. Onboarding offers many advantages. The high level of attention paid to apprentices and parents at the beginning of the apprenticeship helps to ensure that they start the apprenticeship with greater motivation. This creates a closer bond with the company. For the newcomers, a well-developed onboarding process comes across as a sign of the quality of the training company and an expression of appreciation for the newcomers. Not to be underestimated is the decreasing fluctuation and thus increasing employee loyalty. Trainees who feel integrated remain loyal to the company for longer, are more committed and thus ensure that the company’s need for skilled workers is met.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Members of the Berufsausbilder-Verband Nordrhein-Westfalen e.V. (Professional Association of Vocational Trainers in North Rhine-Westphalia) receive a 10% discount on the net price of the basic service.

Aim

You will update your knowledge of vocational training legislation so that you can competently take on and help shape training tasks in your company.

Description

We have put together this special training package in cooperation with the North Rhine-Westphalia Association of Vocational Trainers. In-house personnel development begins with the training of junior staff, which means that training personnel play a key role in the company. When training begins, the apprentices and companies have legal rights and obligations. Those who know their rights and obligations during training do not run the risk of inadvertently doing something wrong and thus gain confidence in dealing with superiors and colleagues. The practice-oriented learning content is taught in a compact way.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Practical training in the correct behaviour and actions to take in breathing apparatus emergencies.

Aim

Participants learn how to behave appropriately in an emergency situation while wearing breathing apparatus. As a safety team, they are able to correctly assess an emergency situation and initiate the necessary measures.

Description

This course prepares participants for deployment as a SCBA emergency response operator. They learn to recognise various causes of SCBA emergencies and understand the appropriate behaviour. Participants are confronted with different emergency situations as a safety squad in order to apply the correct rescue measures under the guidance of the trainers.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Ferry

Theory and practice

Aim

As a holder of the special authorisation for radar (formerly radar licence), you are able to supplement your work as a boatmaster with radar trips. This will have a positive influence on the economic success of your company and ensure that you remain a reliable partner for scheduling.

Description

Anyone who wants to navigate using radar must, in addition to the necessary authorisation for the route to be navigated, also have the special authorisation for radar or another radar certificate recognised by the CCNR. If the skipper does not have this qualification, he is not allowed to continue the journey in inclement weather. This endangers the agreed loading and unloading deadlines in the event of adverse weather conditions.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Preparation written exam

Aim

As the holder of the special authorisation for radar (formerly radar licence), you are able to supplement your work as a boatmaster with radar trips. This will have a positive influence on the economic success of your company and ensure that you remain a reliable partner for scheduling.

Description

Anyone who wants to navigate using radar must, in addition to the necessary authorisation for the route to be navigated, also have the special authorisation for radar or another radar certificate recognised by the CCNR. If the skipper does not have this qualification, he is not allowed to continue the journey in inclement weather. This endangers the agreed loading and unloading deadlines in the event of adverse weather conditions.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Module training to prepare for the exam

Aim

The participants receive the entry ‘Matrosin “ or ”Matrose’ in the boatman’s service book from the water and shipping administration after the accumulated driving time and successfully passing the IHK administrative exam.

Description

3 on-site modules at the academy

The chances of making a career in inland navigation as a career changer by working as a boatmaster are very good due to the demand for skilled workers. It does not matter whether you have found a new professional challenge in freight shipping, passenger shipping or ferry operations.

According to the personnel regulations, the following is required to enter ‘sailor’ or ‘mate’ in the skipper’s logbook:

360 days of inland navigation sailing time or

180 days of inland navigation sailing time if 250 days of sailing time have been spent in maritime shipping

and a successfully passed administrative examination.

This means that the sole navigation time as a deck crew member is not sufficient for professional advancement. Our course aims to offer deck crew members the support they need to successfully pass the administrative examination in order to advance their careers.

The advantage for inland navigation companies is that deckhands are intensively prepared for the IHK administrative examination and qualified for the ship’s crew. This ensures the minimum manning of the vehicles and the fleet’s operations.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

BMDV-approved further training programme in accordance with BinSchPersV

Aim

After 90 days of sailing time – within the nine-month further training programme – and having successfully passed the IHK administrative examination, participants receive the entry ‘Matrosin “ or ”Matrose’ (sailor) in their service record book from the Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration.

Description

The chances of making a career as a crew member in inland navigation, even as a career changer, are very good due to the demand for skilled workers. It does not matter whether you are looking for a new professional challenge in freight or passenger shipping or in ferry operations.

Once the decision has been made to change career, a targeted further training course is the right choice for quickly linking previous professional experience with the new areas of responsibility as a crew member.

The nine-month training programme helps to reduce the existing demand for skilled workers. At the same time, it offers people interesting career prospects in inland navigation. For inland navigation companies, it offers the advantage of being able to qualify people from another profession as crew members within a manageable time frame, thus ensuring the circulation of the fleet. The right mix of ‘old hands’ and motivated newcomers who are passionate about operational and personal success brings a positive dynamic to the team.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Passenger navigation experts – basic course

Aim

After you have successfully passed the final examination, you will receive a certificate of competence for passenger navigation from the Waterways and Shipping Administration, which is valid for five years. During this time, you can take on important safety tasks on board your vehicle.

Description

The training of security personnel on board passenger ships is regulated in the BinSchPersV and the RheinSchPersV. According to these regulations, security personnel with different tasks must be on board passenger ships when passengers are on board.

We offer you a high degree of flexibility in scheduling – before, during or after the season. We also conduct our courses at our customers’ premises. With our typical practical components, we achieve a basis for easier understanding of the inland navigation-specific learning content for career changers and/or on-board personnel.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Refresher course for passenger navigation experts

Aim

After you have successfully passed the final examination, the Water and Shipping Administration will extend your certificate of competence for passenger navigation for a further five years. After that, you will still be able to take on important safety tasks for your passengers.

Description

The training of safety personnel on board passenger ships is regulated in the RhineVesselInspectionRegulation and the German Vessel Inspection Regulation for Inland Waterways. According to these regulations, safety personnel with different tasks must be on board passenger ships when passengers are on board. We offer you flexibility in scheduling – before, during or after the season – and are not tied to a specific location. According to the Rhine Vessel Inspection Regulation or the German Federal Inspection Regulation for Inland Waterways, the expert for passenger shipping must take a refresher course recognised by the competent authority if the still valid certificate of competence is to be extended for a further five years.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Entry level in inland navigation

Aim

After the compact basic training in hazard prevention on board, those starting their careers or changing careers receive the necessary boatman’s service book to integrate them into the on-board community.

Description

A number of legal standards already present companies in Germany with a variety of challenges when it comes to ensuring the safety and health of their employees in the workplace. Nevertheless, with the entry into force of the Inland Navigation Personnel Ordinance on 17 January 2022 (BinSchPersV), the topic of safety for the entry level was taken up from the EU directive.

In short, for those starting their careers or changing careers in inland navigation, a basic safety training course is required in addition to the aptitude test in order to obtain an initial boatmaster’s book from the Waterways and Shipping Office.

In our opinion, the three-day training period required by the BinSchPersV appeared relatively short, so we emphasise a four-day training course with a substantial practical component. The implementation of the four-day training concept, combined with the self-motivation of the young professionals, will provide the basis for a high level of safety awareness. The bottom line is that the tasks to be performed on board an inland waterway vessel must be carried out safely and with as few accidents as possible. We see raising awareness of the need for conscious action as one of the prerequisites for accident-free work on board!

Our training concept is recognised by the General Directorate for Waterways and Shipping.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Entry level in inland navigation

Aim

The VHF radio certificate for inland navigation (UBI) allows you to participate in inland navigation radio communications.

Description

If a radio is installed on board, the person operating it must hold a radio operator’s certificate or a radio operator’s certificate. The VHF radio certificate for inland waterways (UBI) entitles the holder to participate in inland navigation radio on the waterways of zones 1 to 4 (inland waterways and maritime waterways ‘inland from the seafaring border’) after passing the examination.

It is also important to note that since the BinSchPersV came into force, the UBI radiotelephony certificate must be submitted to the Waterways and Shipping Administration in order to be entered as ‘helmsman’ in the skipper’s service book. In short, the pure navigation times according to the previous entries are no longer sufficient.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

GDWS exam preparation

Aim

The aim is to provide intensive preparation for the successful implementation of the last practical part of the GDWS exam ‘Reisedurchführung’ (conducting a voyage) to obtain the Union Patent.

Description

With the introduction of the BinSchPersV and the update of the RheinSchPersV, the qualification and examination standards have been adapted to the European requirements of the EU directive.

We have developed a training concept to prepare career changers for the GDWS examination for the Union Patent in the best possible way. After passing the written exam and the voyage planning, the last practical part of the exam is the execution of the voyage on the shallow water boat simulator SANDRA II in Duisburg-Homberg.

In various scenarios, the future ship’s command must make nautical and technical decisions to ensure the safe transport of goods or passengers on the waterways. Observing the relevant regulations, for example the BinSchStO, is essential in order to implement precautions for the safe execution of the voyage in a forward-looking manner.

The high demands placed on the ship’s command therefore require a conscious assumption of primary responsibility. Accidents, regardless of their nature, must be avoided at all times. Thorough preparation is therefore essential to ensure that the foundations of professional advancement to the management level are not disturbed.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Practice trips on the mountain stretch

Aim

The participants effectively train radar navigation on the mountain stretch.

Description

Descending through the mountain stretch at night is only allowed with the use of radar. In addition to this legal requirement, sufficient professional experience is also needed to be able to navigate this winding section of the Rhine with its special current conditions safely and without accidents.

Which captain wants to experience an emergency, especially in the mountainous section? Or how, for example, should one practice the behaviour in the event of an rudder or engine failure in this section? Experienced captains will be able to make decisions quickly, but what about the next generation of captains?

Exercises in unusual situations can always be carried out without risk on the simulator, thus largely eliminating the risk of endangering people, damaging the vessel or other traffic in the course of a skipper’s daily business.

Simulator training will not be able to replace practical experience on board, nor is it intended to, but it can be used to supplement practical experience on board with targeted, practice-oriented exercises. This training will reduce the stress and psychological strain on the skipper, especially when navigating with the help of radar through mountainous terrain.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Legal basis BinSchPersV

Aim

You will receive a good overview of the legal basis required to acquire the ferry boatman’s licence as a career changer. This will enable you to recognise and legally evaluate dangerous situations in order to avoid possible accidents.

Description

When teaching the course content, the focus is on practical relevance, so that the basis for the future ferry boatman’s task is ensured.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Basic preparation for the written GDWS examination

Aim

As a ferry boat captain and holder of the radar licence, you will be able to supplement your ferry boat captain activities with qualified and authorised radar trips even in inclement weather.

Description

Anyone who wants to navigate with the aid of radar in poor visibility must hold the boatmaster’s certificate and the special authorisation for radar (formerly radar licence) or hold another radar certificate recognised by the CCNR. This will enable you to keep to the timetable even in poor visibility.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Training at the ferry crossing

Aim

As a ferryman and holder of the radar licence, you will be able to supplement your ferryman activities with qualified and authorised radar trips even in poor visibility.

Description

(Individual appointment scheduling before the GDWS exam)

Anyone who wants to navigate with the aid of radar in conditions of poor visibility must hold the boatmaster’s certificate and the special authorisation for radar (formerly radar licence) or hold another radar certificate recognised by the CCNR. This will enable the timetable to be adhered to even in conditions of poor visibility. The examination training at the ferry crossing will make it easier for the examinee to meet the examination requirements.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Members of the Professional Trainers’ Association of North Rhine-Westphalia receive a 10% discount on the net price of the basic service

Aim

With this recognised professional qualification, you will be able to take on the tasks of a competent trainer in a company.

Description

(training dates for 2025 will be published in October)

In-house personnel development begins with the training of junior staff. Thus, the trainer plays a key role in the company. The practice-oriented learning content according to AEVO (four fields of action) is taught in a compact way in this course. The course also includes new information for occupations in inland waterway transport. In cooperation with the North Rhine-Westphalia Association of Vocational Trainers, we have put together a training package that is specifically geared to inland waterway transport.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Specific topics to be agreed

Aim

An emergency operation can occur at any time, which is why this training will support the responsible boatmaster in fulfilling his responsibility for his crew and the safe operation of the authority vessel.

Description

(Scheduling for 2024 and 2025 will be done individually in coordination with the relevant authority and depending on the availability of the simulator.)

The official personnel development plan includes, among other things, the promotion of junior staff to ensure safety on the waterways. In principle, acquiring the prescribed qualifications for operating the respective vehicle is sufficient for this.

Fortunately, emergency operations on the waterways are not part of the daily business of rescue workers. However, due to the lack of routine and/or daily operations, there is a lack of practical experience in the field of emergency operations. In this case, simulator training is an essential and effective tool for compensating for a lack of practical experience. In a manageable period of time, coordinated scenarios for safe emergency response can be practised preventively without risk to people or ‘material’.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

On-site practical training

Aim

As a ferryman and holder of the radar licence, you are able to continue the ferry service safely even in poor visibility thanks to intensive training.

Description

Anyone who wants to carry out a ferry crossing in poor visibility must have the ‘radar licence’ in addition to the usual ‘ferry licence’. This ensures that the timetable can be adhered to in poor visibility. The economic success is thus not endangered by the training.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

VHF radio certificate for inland navigation (UBI)

Aim

The VHF radio certificate for inland navigation (UBI) allows you to participate in inland navigation radio.

Description

If a radio is installed on board, the radio operator must hold a radio operating certificate or a radio certificate. The VHF radio certificate for inland waterways (UBI) entitles the holder to participate in inland waterway radio on the waterways of zones 1 to 4 (inland waterways and maritime waterways ‘inland from the seafaring border’) after passing the examination.

It is also important to note that since the BinSchPersV came into force, the UBI radiotelephony certificate must be submitted to the Waterways and Shipping Administration in order to be entered as ‘helmsman’ in the skipper’s service record book. In short, the pure driving time is no longer sufficient for entry.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Port | Terminal

In-house fire safety officers – compact course

Aim

In an emergency, you can distinguish between fire classes and extinguishing effects in order to effectively use suitable extinguishing agents until the fire brigade arrives.

Description

The course content includes the basics of preventive fire protection and knowledge about the company fire protection organisation. Knowledge and skills are taught to be able to help with an incipient fire at work in accordance with ASA A2.2 and DGUV Information 205-001-023.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Dangerous goods safety advisers – basic training

Aim

You will acquire the necessary expertise in the transport of dangerous goods to take on the demanding role of dangerous goods safety adviser in the field of inland navigation.

Description

As soon as a company is involved in the transport of dangerous goods and is assigned obligations as a participant in the dangerous goods regulation for inland shipping, a dangerous goods safety adviser must be appointed in writing. Before their appointment, dangerous goods safety advisers must have successfully completed a dangerous goods safety adviser basic course. We offer you a basic training course recognised by the Duisburg Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) with the ‘General Part’ and the ‘Inland Waterways Transport’. After passing the IHK examination, you will receive a training certificate that is valid for five years.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Hazardous materials officers – further training

Aim

You will get a good overview of the advantages of container transport by inland vessel. At the same time, you will learn about the possible dangers in implementing container transport and will thus be able to make the right decisions.

Description

(Training plans for 2024 and 2025 will be individually coordinated with the customer.)

Inland waterways transport is ideally suited for the transport of goods in containers, as it has a large and modern fleet of ships combined with many years of expertise in container transport. The course content is taught in a practice-oriented way so that crew members and employees from the logistics industry can benefit from each other’s experience.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Specialised transport – heavy cargo transport

Aim

You will gain a good overview of the advantages of heavy cargo transport by inland vessel. At the same time, you will recognise possible dangers in the implementation of heavy cargo transport and will thus be able to make the right decisions.

Description

(Training plans for 2024 and 2025 will be individually coordinated with the customer.)

Inland waterways transport is ideally suited for the transport of large and heavy goods, because it has powerful and modern ship units. Conversely, this means that large power plant components such as turbines and generators, aircraft parts or bridge sections, etc. can be reliably transported via European waterways using special equipment. The course content is taught with a focus on practical relevance, so that crew members and employees from the logistics industry can benefit from each other.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Ship Gauge Recorder in Inland Navigation

Aim

You will be able to evaluate and implement the legal basis for ship calibration in inland navigation. At the same time, you will be able to determine the loading weight of an inland vessel by means of a calibration survey.

Description

A public appointment and swearing-in of a ship’s calibration agent in inland navigation takes place upon application to the relevant Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK). According to the Expert Ordinance, certain requirements must be met for this, for example, determination of personal suitability. We cannot influence personal suitability in this course. But: We offer an effective training concept that conveys the responsibilities and tasks of a ship’s calibration agent.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Basis – DGUV Principle 309-003

Aim

By obtaining your crane licence, you will acquire the basic qualification for operating cranes and thus meet the minimum requirements for crane operating activities.

Description

To be able to operate a crane safely requires knowledge, skill and a lot of practical training. The basis for this safety for operating cranes is laid in our basic training course. The loads and goods that are to be moved by an overhead or gantry crane quickly make work a risk of accident due to their weight or bulky dimensions. The basic training in accordance with DGUV Principle 309-003 teaches the requirements of the employers’ liability insurance association and the legal basis. Prospective crane operators receive the basic know-how for the safe operation of bridge and gantry cranes.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Basis – DGUV Principle 309-003

Aim

You hold a crane licence and have the basic qualification for operating cranes. The high occupational safety requirements are met with the annual training.

Description

To be able to operate a crane safely requires knowledge, skill and a lot of practical training. The foundation for safe crane operation in accordance with legal requirements is consolidated in the annual training. Loads and goods that are to be moved by a bridge or gantry crane quickly make work a risk of accident due to their weight or bulky dimensions. Trained crane operators make an important contribution to minimising hazards and risks in the workplace.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Recreational Boating

VHF radio certificate for inland navigation (UBI)

Aim

The VHF radio certificate for inland navigation (UBI) allows you to participate in inland navigation radio communications.

Description

If a radio is installed on board, the radio operator must hold a radio operating certificate or a radio operator certificate. The VHF radio certificate for inland waterways (UBI) entitles the holder to participate in inland navigation radio on the waterways of zones 1 to 4 (inland waterways and maritime waterways ‘inland from the seafaring border’) after passing the examination.

It is also important to note that since the BinSchPersV came into force, the UBI radiotelephony certificate must be submitted to the Waterways and Shipping Administration in order to have the entry ‘helmsman’ entered in the skipper’s service record book. In short, the pure driving times according to the previous entries are no longer sufficient.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Safe navigation of a waterway is the top priority for both recreational and professional shipmasters.

Aim

A two-day training course aims to support the shipmaster in taking responsibility for their crew and the safe operation of their vessel.

Description

(Scheduling for 2024 and 2025 is arranged individually in consultation with the customer. Once the minimum number of participants is reached, the respective training date will be set.)

A practice-oriented education forms the foundation of a competent shipmaster. Even those navigating recreational boats on waterways have a lot to consider. This includes, among other things, traffic regulations and always keeping an eye on other waterway users. Our special training concept for unusual scenarios already forms the basis for safe and relaxed navigation in professional shipping.

Night navigation or navigating in poor weather conditions are certainly not part of the “daily routine” for recreational shipmasters. Night voyages can be considered before starting a trip, but poor weather conditions cannot necessarily be anticipated. The lack of routine or daily vehicle operations leaves most “recreational shipmasters” without practical experience.

What shipmaster would want to experience an emergency on board, and how should one, for example, train for a rudder or engine failure? Decisions must still be made quickly in an emergency, which is why even experienced professional shipmasters train on simulators. Unintended situations can be trained safely at the simulator without risks to people, material, or other traffic participants. Good preparation for unforeseen scenarios in travel planning helps reduce stress and largely eliminates the risk of damage.

At the in-house simulator, we can offer essential building blocks for the safe use of waterways. We help to compensate for a lack of practical experience and thus prepare the “recreational shipmaster” for potential surprises during a journey.

In short: Within a small time frame, a sudden and completely unexpected “emergency” is mastered in a preventive training approach without risk to people or material. Experienced practitioners from professional shipping support participants in managing emergencies.

2 days of simulator training

Aim

An emergency situation can arise at any time, which is why this training will help the captain in charge to fulfil their responsibility for their crew and for the safe use of the official vessel.

Description

(Scheduling for 2024 and 2025 will be done individually in coordination with the relevant authority and depending on the availability of the simulator.)

The official personnel development plan includes, among other things, the promotion of junior staff to ensure safety on the waterways. In principle, acquiring the prescribed qualifications for operating the respective vehicle is sufficient for this.

Fortunately, emergency operations on the waterways are not part of the daily business of rescue workers. However, due to the lack of routine and/or daily operations, there is a lack of practical experience in the operational area in the event of an emergency. In this case, simulator training is an essential and effective component to compensate for a lack of practical experience. In a manageable period of time, coordinated scenarios for safe emergency response can be practised preventively without risk to people or ‘material’.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Boat licence for lakes and the sea

Aim

After completing the course and passing the exam, you will be entitled to safely and independently operate pleasure craft with an engine power of over 15 hp, with no length restriction, in coastal and open sea areas such as the North Sea, Baltic Sea, Mediterranean Sea and other waters.

Description

The Sportbootführerschein See (German for ‘sports boat licence for the sea’) is an official, internationally recognised licence for operating motorised sports boats in coastal and open sea areas. The course combines theoretical instruction with practical experience and is the ideal preparation for the exam. The course comprises a total of three sessions (including an information evening).

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Inland Pleasure Craft Skipper Licence

Aim

After completing the course and passing the exam, you will be authorised to safely and independently operate pleasure craft up to 20 metres in length (15 metres on the Rhine) and with an engine power of more than 15 hp (5 hp on the Rhine) on inland waterways such as the Rhine, Moselle, Danube and others.

Description

The Sportbootführerschein Binnen (inland waterways boat licence) is an official, internationally recognised licence for operating motorised pleasure boats on inland waterways. The course includes a combination of theoretical and practical lessons that provide optimal preparation for the exam.

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Further information is available via the link below (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

SBF Inland & Sea (combined course)

Aim

After completing the course and passing the exam, you will be entitled:

  • to operate pleasure craft with a length of less than 20 metres (on the Rhine, less than 15 metres) and an engine power of more than 15 hp (on the Rhine, more than 5 hp) safely and independently on inland waterways such as the Rhine, Moselle and Danube.
  • Operate pleasure craft with an engine power of over 15 hp in coastal and high-sea areas such as the North Sea, Baltic Sea and Mediterranean Sea, with no length restrictions.

Description

The SBF Binnen & See (combined course) is an official, internationally recognised licence that authorises the operation of motorised pleasure boats on inland waterways as well as in coastal and offshore areas. The course offers comprehensive preparation through theoretical instruction and practical driving experience.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Radio course for inland and maritime radio (combined course)

Aim

After completing the course and passing the exam, you will be entitled to:

  • Operate the VHF radio in inland navigation in accordance with the UBI (VHF radio certificate for inland navigation) in order to participate in radio traffic on inland waterways such as the Rhine, Moselle or Danube.
  • Operate the maritime radio service in accordance with the SRC (Short-Range Certificate), which is necessary for ships that are required to be equipped in coastal and maritime shipping.

Description

The Radio Course for Inland & Maritime Radio (combined course) is an official, internationally recognised course that provides the authorisation to operate radio services in inland and maritime shipping. The course covers theoretical knowledge and practical applications, including a mock exam to prepare you optimally.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Simulator

Safe navigation of waterways is the top priority for both recreational and professional shipmasters.

Objective

A two-day training course is designed to support shipmasters in taking responsibility for their crew and ensuring the safe operation of their vessel.

Description

(Scheduling for 2024 and 2025 is arranged individually in consultation with the customer. Training dates will be set once the minimum number of participants is reached.)

A practice-oriented education forms the foundation for a competent shipmaster. Even those navigating recreational boats on waterways have a great deal to consider, including traffic regulations and staying vigilant about other waterway users. Our specialized training concept for extraordinary scenarios already provides a solid foundation for safe and relaxed navigation in professional shipping.

Night navigation or navigation in poor weather conditions is certainly not part of the “daily routine” for recreational shipmasters. Night voyages can be considered before starting a journey, but poor weather conditions cannot always be anticipated. Due to a lack of routine or daily vehicle operation, most “recreational shipmasters” lack practical experience.

What shipmaster would want to face an emergency on board? How should one train for rudder or engine failure, for example? Decisions must still be made quickly in an emergency, which is why even experienced professional shipmasters train on simulators. Unintended situations can be safely practiced in simulators without risks to people, equipment, or other waterway users. Thorough preparation for unforeseen scenarios in travel planning reduces stress and largely eliminates the risk of damage.

At our in-house simulator, we offer essential modules for the safe use of waterways. We help compensate for the lack of practical experience and thus prepare recreational shipmasters for potential surprises during a journey.

In short: Within a short timeframe, a sudden and completely unexpected “emergency” is handled in a preventive training approach without any risk to people or equipment. Experienced practitioners from professional shipping support participants in managing emergencies.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

Specific Topics by Agreement

Aim

An emergency deployment can occur at any time. This training is designed to support shipmasters in fulfilling their responsibility for their crew and ensuring the safe operation of official vessels.

Description

(Scheduling for 2024 and 2025 will be arranged individually in coordination with the responsible authority and the availability of the simulator.)

The personnel development plan for authorities includes fostering new talent to ensure safety on waterways. Fundamentally, obtaining the required certifications to operate the respective vessels is sufficient.

Fortunately, emergency deployments on waterways are not part of the daily routine for rescue forces. However, due to the lack of routine and/or daily operations, practical experience in the field of emergencies is often insufficient. Here, simulator navigation training becomes an essential and effective tool to compensate for this lack of practical experience. Within a manageable timeframe, coordinated scenarios for safe emergency operations can be practiced preventively without risk to people or equipment.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).

GDWS exam preparation

Aim

The aim is to provide intensive preparation for the successful implementation of the last practical part of the GDWS exam ‘Reisedurchführung’ to obtain the Union Patent.

Description

With the introduction of the BinSchPersV and the update of the RheinSchPersV, the qualification and examination standards have been adapted to the European requirements of the EU directive.

We have developed a training concept to prepare career changers for the GDWS examination for the acquisition of the Union Patent in the best possible way. After passing the written exam and the voyage planning, the last practical part of the exam is the execution of the voyage on the shallow water vessel simulator SANDRA II in Duisburg-Homberg.

In various scenarios, the future ship’s command must make nautical and technical decisions to ensure the safe transport of goods or passengers on the waterways. Observing the relevant regulations, for example the BinSchStO, is essential in order to implement precautions for the safe execution of the voyage in a forward-looking manner.

The high demands placed on the ship’s command therefore require a conscious assumption of primary responsibility. Accidents, regardless of their nature, must be avoided at all times. Thorough preparation is therefore essential to ensure that the foundations of professional advancement to the management level are not disturbed.

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Further information can be obtained via the following link (active courses) or by contacting us (contact form).