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ECDIS Navigation and Electronic Chart Management

The Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) has replaced paper charts as the primary navigation method on most commercial vessels. IMO Resolution MSC.282(86) made ECDIS carriage mandatory in phases from 2012, and STCW Section A-II/1 requires all officers of the watch on ECDIS-fitted vessels to hold type-specific training. This programme provides comprehensive ECDIS theory and operational training aligned with IMO Model Course 1.27. It covers the full spectrum of ECDIS functions: chart database management, route planning and monitoring, system limitations, alarm management, and the critical topic of over-reliance on ECDIS. Candidates will develop the judgment to use ECDIS as a powerful navigation tool while maintaining the situational awareness that regulation and seamanship demand. The MarCert ECDIS Navigation Certificate is accepted by major flag states and shipping companies as evidence of ECDIS operational competency. Combined with type-specific training for the vessel's installed system, it satisfies STCW and ISM Code requirements for ECDIS watchkeeping certification.

6 modules 9 lessons 45 hours 45 question exam 0 enrolled
$1,300
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Instant access on enrolment
Blockchain-verified certificate on completion
Accepted by 50+ maritime employers
70% pass mark — Professional standard
Live-proctored exam, globally accepted
23 CPE credits on passing
IMO Compliant
STCW Aligned
ISO 9001
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Our instructors are actively expanding this course with additional lessons, case studies, and practical exercises. Enrol now to access existing content and receive all new material automatically as it is published.

What You'll Learn

Configure and operate ECDIS display settings for safe watchkeeping in all conditions
Plan, verify, and monitor routes using ENCs at the professional standard required by STCW
Manage ENC database updates using the AVCS or PRIMAR chart distribution service
Identify and respond to all ECDIS alarm categories without delay or confusion
Apply back-up navigation procedures when ECDIS malfunctions or loses position input
Conduct ECDIS watchkeeping in compliance with STCW A-II/1 and IMO MSC.282(86)

Prerequisites

  • STCW Officer of the Watch qualification or equivalent deck officer certificate
  • Basic familiarity with chart-based navigation
  • ECDIS type-specific training should be completed for the vessel's installed system

Course Curriculum

Module 1: Module 1: ECDIS Fundamentals and Regulatory Requirements
2 lessons
ECDIS System Architecture and IMO Performance Standards 40 min
ENC Database Management and Chart Updating 35 min
Module 2: Module 2: Route Planning and Safety Contours
2 lessons
Module 3: Module 3: Advanced ECDIS Watchkeeping
1 lessons
Module 4: Module 4: Route Planning and Voyage Monitoring in ECDIS
2 lessons
Module 5: Module 5: Integrating ARPA, AIS, and Sensor Data in ECDIS
1 lessons
Module 6: Module 6: ECDIS Alarm Management, Fallback Arrangements, and Assessment Preparation
1 lessons

Who This Certification Is For

Serving officers with 2+ years at sea
Crew pursuing promotion to supervisory roles
Professionals updating lapsed certifications
Managers requiring documented competency proof

Certification Exam

45
Questions
30 min
Duration
70%
Pass Mark
∞
Attempts

Complete all course modules before attempting the certification exam. You must achieve the pass mark to receive your certificate.