Polar Code Basic Refresher

Code polar-basic-refresher · STCW A-V/4

Refresher for masters, chief mates and OOWs on ships in polar waters; reinforces STCW V/4 basic competencies in ice navigation, hull stress in ice, polar emergencies.

Prerequisites: polar-basic
Duration: 16 hours
Validity: 5 years
Refresher: every 5 years
Typical cost: ~$400 USD

Where to take this course

Country guides list accredited training centres in the major seafarer-supplying nations:

Related glossary terms

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Polar Code Basic Refresher: FAQ

What is the Polar Code Basic Refresher (POLAR-BASIC-REFRESHER) certification?: Refresher for masters, chief mates and OOWs on ships in polar waters; reinforces STCW V/4 basic competencies in ice navigation, hull stress in ice, polar emergencies. Referenced in STCW table A-V/4. Category: STCW Refresher.
Who needs POLAR-BASIC-REFRESHER?: POLAR-BASIC-REFRESHER applies to seafarers in roles defined under STCW table A-V/4. Recommended prerequisites: polar-basic. Without POLAR-BASIC-REFRESHER, operators may decline to roster you for the relevant duties.
How long does POLAR-BASIC-REFRESHER take?: Typical course duration is 16 hours (2 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-BASIC-REFRESHER cost?: Typical cost is around US$400 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-BASIC-REFRESHER?: POLAR-BASIC-REFRESHER 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-BASIC-REFRESHER 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.

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Polar Code Basic Refresher: FAQ

What is the Polar Code Basic Refresher (POLAR-BASIC-REFRESHER) certification?

Refresher for masters, chief mates and OOWs on ships in polar waters; reinforces STCW V/4 basic competencies in ice navigation, hull stress in ice, polar emergencies. Referenced in STCW table A-V/4. Category: STCW Refresher.

Who needs POLAR-BASIC-REFRESHER?

POLAR-BASIC-REFRESHER applies to seafarers in roles defined under STCW table A-V/4. Recommended prerequisites: polar-basic. Without POLAR-BASIC-REFRESHER, operators may decline to roster you for the relevant duties.

How long does POLAR-BASIC-REFRESHER take?

Typical course duration is 16 hours (2 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-BASIC-REFRESHER cost?

Typical cost is around US$400 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-BASIC-REFRESHER?

POLAR-BASIC-REFRESHER 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-BASIC-REFRESHER 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.