Master Code <200 GT
The MCA certificate that turns a Yachtmaster into an STCW Certificate of Competency. There are two versions, and both have a Part A. Requirements from MSN 1858 Amendment 2; exam structure from MIN 690 Amendment 6.
One Certificate of Competency covering two roles: Master of Code vessels under 200 GT, and Officer of the Watch on yachts under 500 GT. MSN 1858 lists it in two versions: one issued under STCW Regulation II/3, whose Master (Code vessels) capacity is limited to 150 miles from a safe haven (its OOW capacity has no area limit), and one with no area limit in either capacity, issued under Regulation II/2.
No. MSN 1858 says it is voluntary: seafarers serving on UK Code vessels with MCA-recognised qualifications found that some overseas administrations don't recognise those qualifications, so holders can upgrade to this STCW certificate.
Be at least 18; hold an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore certificate with a shore-based Yachtmaster Offshore course completion certificate (not needed for a Yachtmaster Offshore issued before 31 July 2003), or an IYT Master of Yachts Limited; complete 6 months' seagoing service while holding it; hold the ancillary certificates; hold a valid ENG1; and pass the MCA Master (Code vessels <200 GT) oral.
The 150-mile limit can be removed later with a valid GMDSS certificate plus either the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean (with its shore-based course) or an IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited.
The same shape, one level up: be at least 18; hold an RYA Yachtmaster Ocean certificate with a shore-based Yachtmaster Ocean course completion certificate (not needed for one issued before 31 July 2003), or an IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited; complete 6 months' seagoing service while holding it; hold the ancillary certificates; hold a valid ENG1; and pass the same oral.
Both versions need the four STCW basic safety courses and HELM (Operational). The 150-mile version needs a GMDSS ROC; the unlimited version a GMDSS GOC. ECDIS is optional — but without an MCA-approved ECDIS course the certificate carries a limitation: not valid for service on ships fitted with ECDIS.
Yes, as an endorsement on your OOW CoC — but MSN 1858 says you must apply to sit a separate oral exam for it.
Yes. For NOEs issued from 2 April 2024, it is a Part A online, proctored, computer-based exam followed by a Part B oral with an examiner on Microsoft Teams. You must pass Part A before you can book Part B, and complete Part B within 12 months of the Part A pass.
15 questions, four test points each, 40 minutes. Three questions each on the Collision Regulations, IALA buoyage and navigational procedures; six from the rest of the syllabus. You need 90% in the Collision Regulations, 90% in IALA buoyage and 80% in navigational procedures, and 50% in each of regulation, emergency procedures, communication, seaworthiness and other (ship handling, meteorology, safety and security).
The notices change. Always check the current version on GOV.UK before you apply or book.
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