A course for nautical professionals wishing to pursue a career as Tugboat Deck Officer. This training program can be characterized as an integration of theoretical lecturing, instruction and practical components.

The structure and contents of this course align with the IMO MSC/Circ. 1101; MEPC/Circ.409; FAL/Circ.100 8 September 2003: Ship/Port interface, availability of tug assistance.

Structure of the course

The Tug Boat Master theory consists of 2 weeks theoretical studies in a class room environment and is supplemented by bridge simulator training using different tug models.

Some examples of the topics addressed during this course are:

• Factors determining tug design
• Various types of harbour tugs
• Assisting methods
• Tug  capabilities and limitations
• Manoeuvring aspects of ships to be assisted
• Tug capacity requirements
• Interaction and tug safety
• Towing equipment
• Escort towing and terminal operations

At  wish, this theoretical study can be accompanied by 2 optional understudy modules.

• Module 1
  A 5-day classroom course including electronic navigation instruments and firefighting elements.
• Module 2
  A four week training course consisting of practical assignments executed while the student is on board a tug. During this period the trainee will be briefed, guided and coached by the TTC project manager and monitored by a TTC or client appointed tug master/mentor.