If you want to work as a sailor on European waterways you have to take the following key steps. It is essential to note that some minimal German language knowledge is required.
Basic Safety Training for Inland Navigation
This 3-days seminars called „Basic Safety Training“ (German: grundlegende Sicherheitsausbildung) is a mandatory requirement for working on board of a barge or river boat. I am offering these seminars regularly in Hamburg/Germany.
Skipper’s Service Book (German: Schifferdienstbuch)
Additionaly to the certificate of the „Basic Safety Training“ you need an actual medical certificate and a passport photo. With these documents you will receive your Skipper’s Service Book (German: Schifferdienstbuch) and inscribed the level of qualification „Deckhand“ (German: Decksmann).
Deckhand
The Deckhand is your entry to work on a barge. The job is similar to that of a Sailor, but without responsibility, like a Trainee Sailor to learn and practicing on the job.
Sailor
To get this qualification you need good practice in the German language, because you have to pass an exam at the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry. If your German is very good I offer courses in Hamburg to prepare you for this exam.
In you require further information please don’t hasitate to contakt me.