Thinking about working at sea?
Whether on cargo ships, cruise vessels, offshore support vessels, or superyachts — STCW training is definitely one certification you’ll need first.
The STCW Convention (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) sets the global minimum training standards required for professional seafarers. Developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), it ensures crew members around the world are properly trained to handle safety risks and emergency situations while working onboard ships.
At Stier Training Services in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, maritime professionals from across Europe, Africa and beyond complete internationally recognised STCW training courses before beginning their careers at sea.
Explore available STCW courses in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
What is STCW Training?
Working at sea comes with risks that don’t exist in most other industries.
Ships operate in unpredictable weather and are isolated, in the middle of the ocean. When emergencies happen — whether it’s a fire, accident, or the need to abandon ship — the crew must rely on their own training and teamwork.
That is why the STCW Basic Safety Training programme was introduced. It teaches essential survival and safety skills required by international maritime regulations.
It covers topics such as:
- Personal survival techniques
- Fire prevention and firefighting
- Elementary first aid
- Personal safety and social responsibility
These core modules are considered the minimum entry requirement for most maritime jobs, including work on cargo ships, cruise ships and offshore vessels.
The training is mandatory for seafarers working on vessels over 24 metres in length and is recognised globally by maritime authorities.
Who Needs STCW Training?
STCW certification is required for many maritime careers, including:
- Merchant navy crew
- Cruise ship staff
- Superyacht crew
- Offshore support vessel personnel
- Marine engineers and deck officers
Many offshore workers in the oil & gas and offshore wind industries also require STCW certification before joining vessels operating internationally.
The Core Skills You Learn
Rather than focusing on theory alone, STCW training emphasises practical safety skills that every seafarer needs.
The training is typically structured around four key competency areas.
Personal Survival Techniques
This module prepares seafarers on how to survive in open water, use life rafts and abandon ship safely.
Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting
This training covers how you can detect a fire, contain it and the emergency response procedures you should follow onboard vessels.
Elementary First Aid
You’ll be taught about basic medical response techniques to stabilise injured crew members until professional help is available.
Personal Safety and Social Responsibility
Life onboard a vessel requires cooperation and discipline. This module focuses on safe working practices, communication between crew members and the responsibilities everyone shares in maintaining a safe working environment.
Together, these modules build the confidence and competence required for life at sea.
STCW Courses Available in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
Stier Training Services provides a range of STCW-aligned maritime training programmes designed for both new entrants and experienced seafarers.
Available courses include:
- STCW Basic Maritime Security Training (BMST)
This course focuses on maritime security awareness, helping crew members recognise threats and maintain onboard safety. Participants learn to:
- Identify potential security risks
- Respond to onboard incidents
- Support ship security procedures
Learn more about the course here
Additional STCW training modules and maritime safety programmes may also be available depending on certification requirements and vessel roles.
You can also browse the full STCW training catalogue here
Why Train in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria?
Las Palmas is one of the largest maritime hubs in the Atlantic, making it an ideal location for maritime training.
The Canary Islands sit at the crossroads of major shipping routes connecting:
- Europe
- West Africa
- South America
Stier Training Services has provided maritime training in the region since 1994, supporting thousands of maritime professionals entering the industry.
Located close to the port and airport, the training centre offers convenient access for international students travelling to Gran Canaria for certification courses.
How Long Does STCW Training Take?
The duration depends on the course and certification level. Typical STCW Basic Safety Training programmes take around five days, combining classroom instruction with practical exercises.
After successful completion, certification is generally valid for five years, after which refresher training may be required.
Careers You Can Start After STCW Training
Completing STCW training opens the door to a wide range of maritime careers. Examples include:
- Deckhand or Ordinary Seaman
- Cruise ship crew member
- Offshore vessel crew
- Superyacht crew
- Maritime security personnel
Many professionals later specialise in roles such as:
- Marine engineering
- Navigation
- Offshore operations
- Maritime safety management
Why Choose Stier Training Services?
Stier Training Services is part of the Wind Asia Training Group and provides accredited training programmes across the maritime, offshore and renewable energy sectors.
The centre in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria offers:
- Internationally recognised STCW certifications
- Experienced maritime instructors
- Modern training facilities
- Convenient access from the Port of Las Palmas
The training centre supports maritime professionals from across Europe, Africa and international shipping hubs.
Start Your Maritime Career with STCW Training
For anyone entering the maritime industry, STCW training is usually the first milestone.
Whether you aim to work on commercial vessels, cruise ships, offshore installations or superyachts, internationally recognised certification is essential.
View upcoming STCW training courses in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
Frequently Asked Questions
What does STCW stand for? STCW stands for Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping, the international convention that sets training requirements for seafarers.
Is STCW training mandatory? Yes. Most maritime roles require STCW certification before crew members can legally work on vessels.
Where can I take STCW training in Spain? One option is Stier Training Services in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, which offers accredited maritime training programmes.
How long is STCW certification valid? Most STCW certificates are valid for five years before refresher training is required.
