Sea School’s one (1) day Inland to Western Rivers Route Conversion Course
Enroll today in Sea School’s one (1) day Inland to Western Rivers Route Conversion Course and learn practical aspects and rules of towing on Western Rivers. Upon successful completion of the course and assessments, mariners will be able to work with the USCG to add the new route to their towing license.
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Why Thousands of Mariners Choose Sea School?
Each year, over 7,500 students choose Sea School for their maritime training. We offer 30+ USCG-approved courses across in-person, online, and satellite formats, with training available at 6 locations nationwide. Team training is also available on-site or via satellite to meet company needs.
This course is required for mariners
Who currently hold a towing vessel endorsement and are seeking to add the Western Rivers route to their credential, as well as for individuals applying for an original endorsement to serve as Apprentice Mate (Steersman), Mate (Pilot), or Master of Towing Vessels.
Inland to Western River Routes Completion and Certification Requirements
Any applicant who has successfully completed our Inland to Western Rivers Routes for Towing Vessels (SEASCH-229) course within one year of application will satisfy:
The Navigation General and Navigation Problems examination requirements to add a Western Rivers Route to an endorsement for apprentice mate of towing vessels, mate pilot of towing vessels or master of towing vessels.
They also have to meet the sea time requirement on this route to qualify.
Why Thousands of Mariners Choose Sea School?
Each year, over 7,500 students choose Sea School for their maritime training. We offer 30+ USCG-approved courses across in-person, online, and satellite formats, with training available at 6 locations nationwide. Team training is also available on-site or via satellite to meet company needs.
Inland to Western River Routes for Towing Vessels Requirements: Everything You Need to Get Certified
License
- A first-time applicant applying for apprentice mate of towing vessels upon western rivers must have this course in order to request this route even if they are requesting inland and near coastal as well.
- A mate pilot of towing vessel or a master of towing vessels need this course to add the western river route to their endorsement if it was not previously held at the apprentice mate level
Sea Service
- 90 days on Western Rivers
- If a holder of mate pilot of towing or master of towing is taking the class to add western river route to their endorsement, the TOAR for that route needs to be completed in addition to taking the course
- Original apprentice mate of towing vessels do not have to complete the TOAR
Real-World Expertise
Excellence starts with a strong foundation. We believe in mastering fundamental skills, building confidence, and ensuring every mariner has the knowledge and expertise needed to succeed in their career.
Flexible Learning Options
True leadership is demonstrated through action. We foster a hands-on approach, where mariners learn by doing and gain real-world experience that prepares them for the challenges of the industry.
Career Advancement
In the maritime world, challenges are inevitable - but so are solutions. We encourage proactive thinking, problem-solving, and the courage to take initiative.
Industry-Recognized Certifications
We never settle for mediocrity. Whether in training, leadership, or problem-solving, we strive for the highest standards in everything we do.
A Strong Community & Industry Network
Success in the maritime industry requires a strong work ethic. We embrace a roll-up-your-sleeves mentality, knowing that real growth comes from effort and persistence.
Confidence & Leadership Development
Ttrue professionals must be ready to adapt. We believe in staying agile, embracing change, and continuously expanding our skills to meet new challenges.
We’ve developed comprehensive, engaging, and practical curriculum to set you up for success on the water
While the curriculum represented on the Sea School website is a general layout of course information, it is not the exact order in which lessons are taught.
- The Inland Waterways
- Inland Rivers Vessel Movement Center
- Western Rivers - Aids to Navigation
- Western Rivers - Chart Interpretation
- The Inland Waterways
- Inland Rivers Vessel Movement Center
- Western Rivers - Aids to Navigation
- Western Rivers - Chart Interpretation
- Maneuvering in Rivers
- River Sailing
- Towboats
- Maneuvering in Rivers
- River Sailing
- Towboats
- Rules of the Road
- River Safety - Policy & Procedures
- Rules of the Road
- River Safety - Policy & Procedures
A Simple 3-Step Process to Get Certified and Start Your Maritime Career
Choose Your Course
Pick the course that fits your experience level and sea time and select the available format that works for you (in-person, Zoom, or online).
Enroll & Prepare
Register online or at a Sea School location. Ensure you meet eligibility requirements and start reviewing the provided study materials.
Get Certified
After finishing the course, you will need to submit your application to the Coast Guard to receive your Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC).
What Our Clients Say
Amazing across the board!
Shone H.
Great sea stories.
Excellent instruction.
Christopher M.
Amazing office staff.
Fun classroom. Awesome instructor. Fun course. Great food.
Hal E.
Office staff is a ten.
Informative course and clean classroom.
Sara H.
Instructor was awesome.
I look forward to another class.
Dimecio D.
Office staff is easy to deal with.
Friendly and helpful instructor.
Peter F.
Instructor did not cut corners in teaching this class.
Very clear and straight to the point. Awesome teacher.
Garrison G.
Excellent knowledge from the instructor.
She will make you learn.
Dustin B.
Classroom is comfortable.
Instructor and staff were awesome and amazing.
Patrick C.
Best staff I have ever met.
Classroom was nice and the course was very meaningful. Instructor is very intelligent.
Leland K.
What We Provide:
- Course materials included in the course fee
What Students Need to Bring:
- Students should bring a pencil, highlighter, and notebook or notepad
Advance your Maritime Career
All the answers you’ll need before enrolling in the Inland to Western course
The USCG considers Western Rivers to be the rivers that primarily encompass the Mississippi River system. These include:
- The Mississippi River and its tributaries
- The South Pass and Southwest Pass
- The Port Allen-Morgan City Alternate Route
- The part of the Atchafalaya River above its junction with Plaquemine-Morgan City Alternate Waterway
To find the most up to date and accurate description of Western Rivers, it is best to refer to 33 CFR 83.03.
The Sea School offers Inland to Western River Routes Conversion courses at our Bayou La Batre, AL location. You can also find a list of approved courses on the NMC website under the “Approved Courses” tab.
License
- A first-time applicant applying for apprentice mate of towing vessels upon western rivers must have this course in order to request this route even if they are requesting inland and near coastal as well.
- A mate pilot of towing vessel or a master of towing vessels need this course to add the western river route to their endorsement if it was not previously held at the apprentice mate level.
Sea Service
- 90 days on Western Rivers
- If a holder of mate pilot of towing or master of towing is taking the class to add western river route to their endorsement, the TOAR for that route needs to be completed in addition to taking the course
- Original apprentice mate of towing vessels do not have to complete the TOAR
Due to the unique navigational challenges of Western Rivers, the USCG requires specialized instruction and experience for marine operators.
Simulators generally do NOT replace required real world experience, especially for the 90-day sea time requirement.
Maintaining a detailed log of your sea time, signed by your employer, is necessary when submitting for most endorsements or licenses that require sea time.
As with many other Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsements, the Western Rivers Towing License is valid for 5 years.
No. Only the USCG can issue official documentation and certifications. To obtain an official Inland to Western Rivers Towing certification, mariners must:
- Complete the necessary USCG application form.
- Submit both the Sea School Course Completion Certificate and USCG application form to the USCG.
The USCG then processes the application and issues the official Inland to Western Rivers Towing certification.
Your Journey Begins Here – Get Certified & Get on the Water!
Helping thousands of mariners every year, Sea School is a leader in the maritime education space. Whether you are new to the industry or looking to add onto your Merchant Mariner Credential, find the courses right for you at Sea School.
