STCW-F Basic Safety (Fishing)
Code stcw-f-bsf
Basic safety training for fishing vessel personnel under STCW-F 1995, distinct from STCW A-VI/1 BST.
- Prerequisites
- —
- Duration
- 40 hours
- Validity
- 5 years
- Refresher
- every 5 years
- Typical cost
- ~$350 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.
STCW-F Basic Safety (Fishing): FAQ
- What is the STCW-F Basic Safety (Fishing) (STCW-F-BSF) certification?
- Basic safety training for fishing vessel personnel under STCW-F 1995, distinct from STCW A-VI/1 BST. Category: Fishing.
- Who needs STCW-F-BSF?
- STCW-F-BSF applies to seafarers in roles defined under STCW. No formal prerequisites are listed in our directory. Without STCW-F-BSF, operators may decline to roster you for the relevant duties.
- How long does STCW-F-BSF take?
- Typical course duration is 40 hours (5 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 STCW-F-BSF cost?
- Typical cost is around US$350 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 STCW-F-BSF?
- STCW-F-BSF 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 STCW-F-BSF 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.