Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (RFPNW)
The Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (RFPNW) course is designed to prepare seafarers for certification under STCW Regulation II/4. The training helps participants develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to assist in navigational watch duties on board ships safely and efficiently.
This course is ideal for deck ratings, trainee seafarers, and those who wish to build a career in ship navigation or bridge operations. It combines classroom instruction, simulator-based exercises, and practical demonstrations to ensure trainees gain real-world understanding of bridge routines and responsibilities.
During the course, participants learn about watchkeeping principles, bridge organization, and communication procedures between officers and crew. They are trained in steering the ship manually, following helm orders, and understanding compass systems, both gyro and magnetic. The course also includes practice in keeping a proper lookout, identifying navigational hazards, and reporting to the Officer on Watch accurately and promptly.
Other important topics include basic collision regulations (COLREGs), introduction to bridge equipment, standard marine communication phrases (SMCP), fatigue management, and safety procedures during watchkeeping. Participants also receive guidance on completing their Training Record Book, which is essential for applying for the RFPNW Certificate of Proficiency.
By the end of this preparatory training, candidates will be familiar with the duties of a deck rating, understand how to assist effectively on the bridge, and be ready to demonstrate the practical competence required for certification as a Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch.
This course builds the foundation for a professional seafaring career and ensures safe navigation through proper teamwork, communication, and situational awareness.
What will I learn?
- Introduction to Watchkeeping: Duties of RFPNW; bridge organization; roles under OICNW; bridge communication and teamwork.
- Steering and Helm Orders: Types of steering systems; following helm commands; magnetic vs. gyro compass steering; steering in restricted visibility.
- Lookout and Watch Duties: Visual and auditory lookout; reporting targets; communication with bridge team; night vision and use of binoculars.
- Collision Regulations (COLREGS) – Basics: Lights and shapes; sound signals; responsibilities between vessels; importance of maintaining lookout.
- Bridge Equipment Familiarization: Compass, rudder angle indicator, autopilot, radar display basics, helm alarm systems, and steering gear change-over procedures.
- Watchkeeping Safety and Emergencies: Fatigue management, bridge resource management principles, emergency steering, and response to bridge alarms.
- Communication and Reporting: Use of Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCP), phonetic alphabet, and reporting abnormalities clearly and promptly.
- Assessment and Record Keeping: Maintaining training record book, demonstrating competence in steering and lookout under supervision, final practical assessment.
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have completed at least 6 months of approved sea service which includes: Watchkeeping duties under supervision of a qualified officer.
- Documented evidence in a Training Record Book or a recognized maritime administration
- Hold valid STCW Basic Safety Training (as per Section A-VI/1) - PST, FPFF, EFA and PSSR
- Be medically fit for seagoing service in accordance with ILO/IMO medical standards.
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