Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. MaritimeSkills delivers maritime training programmes in accordance with applicable STCW requirements and under the supervision of the Latvian Maritime Administration.

The recognition pathway depends on the programme, document type, employer, flag state, and target country. If you have a specific company, country, or flag in mind, contact us in advance and we will help assess your situation.

For the Ordinary Seaman and Motorman programmes, no prior sea experience is required. These programmes are designed for beginners who want to start a maritime career from zero.

For higher-level programmes, entry requirements include education, qualifications, and documented sea service. If you are unsure which programme is right for you, contact us and we will help identify the best option.

For beginners:

• Ordinary Seaman — training for deck crew positions

• Motorman — training for engine room positions

For candidates with sea experience, such as seamen or motormen:

• Deck Officer on ships of less than 500 GT in coastal trade

• Marine Engineer on ships with main propulsion power of less than 750 kW

• Boatmaster on ships of less than 50 GT

We match programmes to your sea service, documents, and career goals.

Entry requires:

• a high school diploma or equivalent (e.g., GCSEs, Grade 12 Certificate)

• at least 12 months of documented sea service as a seaman / deck rating on merchant, fishing, or inland waterway vessels

If you are not sure whether your sea service is suitable, we can assess your documents in advance.

Entry requires:

• a high school diploma or equivalent (e.g., GCSEs, Grade 12 Certificate)

• at least 12 months of documented sea service as a motorman on vessels

Contact us and we will help assess your qualifications and eligibility.

This programme is designed for work on small commercial vessels and special-purpose vessels. The programme volume is 525 hours and is delivered in full-time format.

It can be especially relevant for careers on:

• workboats and service vessels

• pilot boats

• tender and service vessels

• CTVs (Crew Transfer Vessels) in offshore wind

• port, harbour, and inspection craft

• small commercial vessels in the yachting and fishing sectors

Entry is typically based on basic education and a valid medical fitness certificate.

A significant part of the theoretical training is delivered online through live instructor-led classes

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Practical modules, simulator training, examinations, and competence checks are carried out in person in Riga

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For many programmes, the theory stage typically takes around 2–3 months, while the in-person part may range from several days to several weeks, depending on the programme.

No. Because a significant part of the theory is delivered online, there is no need to stay in Riga full-time during the entire training period.

Attendance in Riga is required only for practical modules, simulator sessions, examinations, and other mandatory in-person elements.

Yes. MaritimeSkills provides students with paid sea practice placements. Payment typically starts from approximately EUR 500 per month, depending on the vessel, company, and market conditions.

This is a key part of our approach: after the theory stage, students move to a real practical step at sea.

Yes. Students who successfully complete the programme, demonstrate proper performance, and meet the applicable medical, documentary, and employer requirements receive a guaranteed pathway to first employment at sea through partner crewing agencies and shipping companies.

We support students throughout the full process — from the first enquiry to sea practice and the transition to the first contract.

Basic programmes start from EUR 1,700.

For some programmes, instalment options may be available. Contact us for exact pricing and currently available payment plans.

This depends on the programme. In many cases, the final assessment at MaritimeSkills includes the required competence assessment.

In some cases, an additional examination at the Latvian Maritime Administration may still apply. We will explain this in advance for the programme you choose.

English is important for work in international shipping. As a general rule, a level around A2–B1 is recommended for understanding instructions, commands, and basic professional communication.

If your English is not yet strong, that does not always prevent you from starting. We can advise you on the most suitable programme and how to improve your English alongside your training.

Yes, provided they have a lawful basis to stay in Latvia during the training period.

Contact us in advance and we will help assess your visa and document situation.

No. Many students enter the maritime profession in their 30s, 40s, and 50+, looking for a more stable profession with stronger income potential.

What matters most is motivation, health, and readiness to learn.

These programmes create progression opportunities for candidates who already have sea experience and want to move to a higher professional level on smaller vessels.

Deck route opportunities may include:

• skipper

• master of small tonnage vessels

• officer in charge of a navigational watch

• other command positions on smaller vessels

Engine route opportunities may include more responsible technical functions related to:

• machinery operation

• technical maintenance

• fault diagnostics

• reliable operation of ship systems

These pathways are especially relevant for:

• CTVs

• small offshore service vessels

• fishing vessels

• support craft

• small commercial vessels

• and, in some cases, the yachting industry

Yes. If you are already working at sea as a seaman, AB, motorman, or another rating, we can help you choose a tailored progression path based on your sea service, education, and career goals.

This may include opportunities relevant to offshore, CTVs, fishing, small commercial vessels, and, in some cases, yachting.

Simply contact us. We will ask a few clarifying questions, recommend the most suitable programme, and explain the next steps.

No obligation — just a useful consultation.