Marine training
Study with TAFE Queensland's lead centre for marine training. Enjoy access to the latest marine technology and industry-standard equipment when you complete marine training with the Cairns Maritime Academy at Tropical North Queensland Institute of TAFE.
Our outstanding marine training programs cover a diverse range of skills and qualifications which prepare students for local, state and federal licensing exams, subject to the requirements of individual agencies.
Marine programs
Yachtmaster programs
Safety and communications training
Marine training in Cairns
Additional information
For comprehensive information on these programs and courses, go to the program search page. For more information on licensing requirements, contact Maritime Safety Queensland, Queensland Transport (Maritime Division), relevant state government agencies or the Australian Maritime Safety Association (AMSA).
Marine programs
A wide range of accredited marine training programs are delivered through the Cairns Maritime Academy, including:
Coxswains - Certificate II in Transport & Distribution (Coastal Maritime Operations - Coxswain)
Master 5 - Certificate III in Transport & Distribution (Coastal Maritime Operations - Master 5)
Master 4 - Certificate IV in Transport & Distribution (Coastal Maritime Operations - Master 4)
Marine Engine Driver Grade 1 - Certificate II in Transport & Distribution (Marine Engine Driving 1)
Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 - Certificate II in Transport & Distribution (Marine Engine Driving 2)
Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 - Certificate III in Transport & Distribution (Marine Engine Driving 3)
Yachtmaster programs
Yachtmaster Offshore (STCW compliant training, MCA approved) *
When it comes to facing the elements at sea, textbook knowledge is no substitute for practical experience. Aspiring yachtmasters and captains must prepare as much as possible prior to taking full responsibility for themselves, their vessels and crews.
Yachtmaster certification is an established and recognised measure of competence for command of power and sail vessels. This program is delivered full-time over a four week period. Candidates must satisfy the following prerequisites for entry to the program:
- certificate of Sea Safety-STCW95
- 50 days logged on board a yacht at sea as an active member of the crew (sea time form must be submitted upon enrolment)
- 3000 miles logged in a yacht while cruising at sea
- 5 varied passages with rhumb lines of over 60 nautical miles (2 of which must be as captain or watchkeeper during the passage)
- 30 hours on watch at night underway as an active member of a yacht's crew.
Yachtmaster Ocean (STCW compliant training, MCA approved) *
Yachtmaster Ocean is a program in shore-based celestial navigation and global weather for those who wish to learn the true art of sailing by the stars, in preparation for trans-oceanic passages. This qualification is recognised globally by 22 Governments, the British Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and the US Coastguard. Candidates must satisfy the following prerequisites for entry to the program:
- masterclass 4 Certificate of Competency and/or Yachtmaster Offshore
- certificate of Sea Safety-STCW95.
* This qualification is recognised globally by 22 Governments, the British Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and the US Coastguard.
Safety and communications training
The following courses can be taken individually to prepare students for entry to the above programs or as preliminary training for service work at sea:
Elements of Shipboard Safety (State-based, MSQ approved)
Certificate of Safety Training (STCW compliant, AMSA approved)
Marine Radio - Licence
GMDSS General Operators Certificate (STCW compliant, AMSA approved)
Marine training in Cairns
Cairns is home to one of Australia's largest marine fleets and is gaining a reputation nationally and internationally as a major maritime service centre.
Facilities and services in and around Cairns include:
- Cairns Seaport, Australia's busiest cruise port and Queensland's busiest commercial port
- two commercial fishing bases
- a naval base
- three marinas, including the Cairns Marlin Marina adjacent to the central business district
- a thriving dive tourism industry
- ship building, repair, dry dock and refit operations
- sailing and yacht clubs
- more information about Cairns.
For more information on marine facilities and services, please visit the Cairns Port Authority website.
Additional information and links
For additional information please view the links below.
Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA)
Queensland Transport
Maritime Safety Queensland
International Yachtmaster Training