This course
The Master 200 / Officer of the Watch (OOW) 500 Oral Examination is one of the most demanding assessments for professional seafarers. Success requires not only a sound understanding of the syllabus but also the confidence to demonstrate practical knowledge under examination conditions.
At BH Marine Academy, we take a different approach. Rather than relying on an intensive last-minute revision week, we provide structured coaching over several weeks, allowing knowledge to be absorbed progressively through a combination of self-study, one-to-one tuition and realistic oral examination practice.
Our proven training programme is designed to maximise your confidence and increase your chances of passing the MCA oral examination at the first attempt.
Course includes:
• Initial assessment of your current knowledge
• Review of your Notice of Eligibility (NOE) and examination readiness
• Personal training plan tailored to your experience
• One-to-one online coaching sessions
• Face-to-face revision sessions where appropriate
• Mock oral examinations under realistic conditions
• App-based revision and self-study resources
• Continuous tutor support throughout your preparation
• Examination techniques and confidence building
Key syllabus areas include:
• COLREGS
• Navigation and passage planning
• Meteorology
• Tides and tidal calculations
• Chartwork and publications
• Bridge watchkeeping
• GMDSS and communications
• Stability and seaworthiness
• Safety equipment
• Emergency procedures
• Fire prevention and firefighting
• Search and Rescue
• Pollution prevention (MARPOL)
• MCA Codes of Practice
• Maritime legislation
• Seamanship
• Professional responsibilities and command decision making
Ready to take the next step? Book your place online or contact BH Marine Academy on 01305 564204 for dates, availability and advice on the right course for you.
Required experience
Candidates should normally hold an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence (or equivalent) and be working towards an MCA Master 200 or OOW 500 Certificate of Competency with a valid Notice of Eligibility (NOE), or be approaching the stage of applying for one.
Minimum duration
Approximately four days of direct tuition, supported by several weeks of guided self-study and one-to-one coaching. We recommend allowing at least one month to prepare properly before sitting the MCA oral examination.
Minimum age
18 years
Content
COLREGS; navigation and passage planning; meteorology; tides; chartwork and publications; bridge watchkeeping; GMDSS; stability and seaworthiness; safety equipment; emergency procedures; firefighting; Search and Rescue; MARPOL; MCA Codes of Practice; maritime legislation; seamanship; command decision-making and oral examination technique.
Certificate issuing criteria
This is a preparation course and does not issue an MCA certificate. Candidates who successfully complete their MCA oral examination will be awarded the appropriate MCA Certificate of Competency, subject to meeting all MCA requirements.
Unlike many providers, BH Marine Academy focuses on individual success rather than large classroom numbers. Every candidate receives personalised tuition tailored to their experience and learning style. Our instructors are experienced professional Masters with extensive commercial sea time and a detailed understanding of the MCA oral examination process.
Our objective is simple: to give you the knowledge, confidence and examination technique required to pass your Master 200 or OOW 500 oral examination and progress your professional maritime career.
Contact BH Marine Academy by telephone or WhatsApp to discuss your current experience, your Notice of Eligibility and to develop a personalised preparation programme.
Format
Structured one-to-one online coaching, guided self-study, face-to-face revision where appropriate and realistic mock oral examinations.
Price:
£1500
Dates, booking and enrolment: follow the instructions for this course above. Where scheduled dates and online booking are offered, use the calendar to check availability. For online enrolment, unlisted dates, private tuition or an own cabin, email admin@bhmarine.co.uk, call 01305 564204 or use the enquiry form below. Enquiries are confirmed separately.
Make a booking enquiry
Please read our training terms before booking. This form requests dates and availability; your booking is confirmed separately.
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