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Under 16.5m Skipper’s Ticket

 

Navigating Your Future: The Under 16.5m Skipper’s Ticket with Seafood Cornwall Training

Are you a fisherman working on vessels under 16.5 metres in length? Thinking about taking the next step in your career? Whether you’re aiming to skipper your own boat or take more responsibility at sea, the Under 16.5m Skipper’s Ticket could be your route to a safer, more confident, and more professional future in the fishing industry.

At Seafood Cornwall Training, we specialise in preparing fishermen for real-life situations—at sea and in their careers. Based in Newlyn, the heart of Cornwall’s fishing industry, we offer expert-led, hands-on courses that make training practical, relevant, and rewarding. And there’s no better example than our tailored training for the Under 16.5m Skipper’s Ticket.

What Is the Under 16.5m Skipper’s Ticket?

The Under 16.5m Skipper’s Ticket is a nationally recognised certificate that demonstrates your competence and knowledge to safely take charge of a fishing vessel under 16.5 metres in length. It’s part of the UK’s efforts to ensure that skippers have the essential skills to operate safely and legally, protecting both lives and livelihoods at sea.

This certification is particularly important for anyone who wants to:

     

      • Take on more responsibility aboard a fishing vessel

      • Become a vessel owner or self-employed fisherman

      • Improve safety and legal compliance

      • Access funding and insurance more easily

      • Develop a professional fishing career

    While the ticket is currently a voluntary requirement, it’s strongly encouraged by industry bodies and regulatory authorities—and it may become mandatory in the future. That means getting qualified now can give you a head start and peace of mind.

    What Training Is Involved?

    To achieve the Under 16.5m Skipper’s Ticket, you’ll need to complete a series of mandatory safety and competency courses, all of which are available through Seafood Cornwall Training.

    The typical training pathway includes:

    ✅ Basic Safety Training Courses (MCA-Approved):

    These are the five mandatory courses required for all fishermen in the UK:

       

        1. Sea Survival

        1. Fire Fighting and Prevention

        1. First Aid

        1. Health and Safety (in the workplace)

        1. Safety Awareness

      These courses focus on staying safe at sea, dealing with emergencies, and making good decisions when it matters most.

      ✅ Navigation and Watchkeeping

      A key element for any skipper. This course covers how to read charts, plot courses, understand tides, and use navigation equipment. You’ll learn both traditional methods and the use of modern electronic aids like GPS and radar.

      ✅ Engine Room Knowledge

      You don’t need to be an engineer, but every skipper must understand the basics of marine engines, fault finding, and routine maintenance. This course ensures you’re prepared to manage mechanical issues and avoid breakdowns offshore.

      ✅ Stability Awareness

      Understanding vessel stability is crucial to preventing capsizing and other life-threatening situations. This course teaches you how load distribution, weather, and movement affect your boat’s balance—and how to maintain control in all conditions.

      Who Can Take the Course?

      If you’re already working in the fishing industry and have some experience at sea, you’re likely eligible to begin working towards your Under 16.5m Skipper’s Ticket.

      You don’t have to complete all the courses in one go—you can build them up over time, as your schedule and funding allow. Seafood Cornwall Training is here to support you with flexible course dates and expert guidance on how to plan your training path.

      Many fishermen complete the required modules gradually while still working full-time. If you’re unsure where to start, just get in touch with our team—we’ll help you figure out the best route for your individual situation.

      Why Train with Seafood Cornwall Training?

      Located in Newlyn, one of the UK’s busiest fishing ports, Seafood Cornwall Training offers something that’s hard to find elsewhere: industry-specific training, delivered by people who know the fishing world inside and out.

      Here’s what sets us apart:

         

          • Experienced tutors who understand the realities of fishing

          • Flexible course schedules to suit working fishermen

          • Practical, hands-on learning that prepares you for real-world situations

          • Up-to-date facilities and equipment

          • Strong links with local and national fishing organisations

        We’re not just about ticking boxes—we’re about building confidence, competence, and a community of skilled, professional skippers.

        What’s the Next Step?

        If you’re ready to invest in your future and take the first step toward your Under 16.5m Skipper’s Ticket, we’re ready to help. Whether you need one course or the full suite, we’ll guide you through the process.

        Visit www.seafoodcornwalltraining.co.uk to see our upcoming course dates, get more information, or contact us directly. 

        01736 364 324

        info@seafoodcornwalltraining.co.uk