Polar Code Advanced Training
Code polar-advanced · STCW A-V/4-2
Advanced Training for service on ships operating in polar waters under STCW A-V/4-2 — required for Master and Chief Mate of ships operating in polar waters. Advanced ice navigation, POLARIS risk-assessment, PWOM, search-and-rescue in polar conditions, ice-class limitations and operating restrictions.
- Prerequisites
- polar-basic
- Duration
- 35 hours
- Validity
- 5 years
- Refresher
- every 5 years
- Typical cost
- ~$900 USD
Where to take this course
Country guides list accredited training centres in the major seafarer-supplying nations:
Related glossary terms
High confidence
Editorial confidence: how we grade. Data sources and methodology: /sources.
Polar Code Advanced Training: FAQ
- What is the Polar Code Advanced Training (POLAR-ADVANCED) certification?
- Advanced Training for service on ships operating in polar waters under STCW A-V/4-2 — required for Master and Chief Mate of ships operating in polar waters. Advanced ice navigation, POLARIS risk-assessment, PWOM, search-and-rescue in polar conditions, ice-class limitations and operating restrictions. Referenced in STCW table A-V/4-2. Category: Polar.
- Who needs POLAR-ADVANCED?
- POLAR-ADVANCED applies to seafarers in roles defined under STCW table A-V/4-2. Recommended prerequisites: polar-basic. Without POLAR-ADVANCED, operators may decline to roster you for the relevant duties.
- How long does POLAR-ADVANCED take?
- Typical course duration is 35 hours (4.4 working days at 8h/day). This is face-to-face or blended-learning time at an approved training centre; revalidation refresher courses are usually shorter. Plan against your sea leave window before booking.
- How much does POLAR-ADVANCED cost?
- Typical cost is around US$900 at an approved provider. Cost varies widely by country and training centre quality; many shipping companies cover the course fee as part of the contract. Check with your manning agent or fleet department before paying out of pocket.
- Where can I get POLAR-ADVANCED?
- POLAR-ADVANCED is delivered by approved training centres in most major maritime training countries. Use our /training-centres directory and the certifications-by-country filters to find an approved provider near you. The flag administration of your seaman's book may also publish a list of accepted providers.
- How long is POLAR-ADVANCED valid?
- 5 years from issue, with a refresher required every 5 years. Plan your revalidation course before the expiry date; lapsed certificates may require re-sitting the full course rather than a refresher, and operators may refuse to extend a contract while a critical certificate is expired.