Jacksonville
,
FL
11/10/2025
-
11/21/2025

Celestial Navigation/Oceans OICNW (OP LEVEL) MASTER 500/1600GRT (MGMT LEVEL)

This comprehensive course covers celestial navigation and oceanic operations for officers in charge of a navigational watch (OICNW) and Master 500/1600 GRT. It combines operational-level and management-level training, adhering to STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) regulations.

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key metrics

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.

7500
+
Fully educated students per year
30
+
Different courses to choose from
45
+
Years of proven experience
Trusted by Companies Nationwide
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Course Data

This comprehensive course covers celestial navigation and oceanic operations for officers in charge of a navigational watch (OICNW) and Master 500/1600 GRT. It combines operational-level and management-level training, adhering to STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) regulations.

course type
In-Person
schedule
certification
Sea school approvals
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Any applicant who has successfully completed Sea School x QMT's Oceans Navigation/Celestial Navigation (500/1600 GRT) (QUALMI-107) course will satisfy:
The Oceans Navigation examination requirements of:

  • Navigation General: Oceans
  • Navigation Problems: Oceans

For increasing the scope of an endorsement from near coastal to oceans for the following National Deck Officer Endorsements if completed within one year of application:

  • Second or Third Mate of self-propelled vessels of unlimited tonnage
  • Master or Mate of self-propelled vessels of less than 1600 GRT
  • Master or Mate of self-propelled vessels of less than 500 GRT
  • Master or Mate of self-propelled vessels of less than 200 GRT
  • Master or Mate of Uninspected Fishing Industry Vessels; AND
  • The Celestial Navigation training requirements of 46 CFR 11.309(a)(4)(viii) for an STCW endorsement as Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on vessels of 500 or more gross tonnage (ITC); AND
  • The Celestial Navigation standards of competence required by 46 CFR 11.309(a)(3) and 11.319(a)(3); STCW Code Section A-II/1 and Table A-II/1, as amended 2010, meeting the National Assessment Guidelines from NVICs 12-14(Ch-5) and 02-18(Ch-3) Tasks 1.1.A, 1.1.B, 1.1.C, 1.1.D, 1.1.E, and 1.1.F.
key metrics

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.

7500
+
Fully educated students per year
30
+
Different courses to choose from
45
+
Years of proven experience
Trusted by Companies Nationwide
Ergon logo
Chicago Dry Dock Logo
Central Marine Logistics Logo
Crescent Towing logo
Dawn service logo
Central boat rentals logo
B logo
Martin marine logo
Ergon logo
Chicago Dry Dock Logo
Central Marine Logistics Logo
Crescent Towing logo
Dawn service logo
Central boat rentals logo
B logo
Martin marine logo
Course requirements

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core values

Set Sail for Success: The Benefits of Training at Sea School

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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.

COURSE CURRICULUM

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.

Advanced Techniques for Ocean Navigation
Advanced Techniques for Ocean Navigation
Hands-On Training with Celestial Navigation Simulators
Hands-On Training with Celestial Navigation Simulators
Real-World Navigational Scenarios and Problem-Solving Exercises
Real-World Navigational Scenarios and Problem-Solving Exercises
Conducting Sight Reductions and Determining Latitude and Longitude
Conducting Sight Reductions and Determining Latitude and Longitude
Use of Sextants and Nautical Almanacs
Use of Sextants and Nautical Almanacs
Calculation of Position Lines and Fixes
Calculation of Position Lines and Fixes
Use of Navigational Equipment and Systems
Use of Navigational Equipment and Systems
Introduction to Celestial Navigation Techniques
Introduction to Celestial Navigation Techniques
Comprehensive Navigation Techniques for OP Level
Comprehensive Navigation Techniques for OP Level
Management of Navigational Operations and Resources
Management of Navigational Operations and Resources
Plotting Celestial Observations and Navigational Fixes
Plotting Celestial Observations and Navigational Fixes
Planning and Conducting Safe and Efficient Ocean Voyages
Planning and Conducting Safe and Efficient Ocean Voyages
Strategic Planning and Decision-Making for Ocean Voyages
Strategic Planning and Decision-Making for Ocean Voyages
Handling Complex Navigational Situations and Calculations
Handling Complex Navigational Situations and Calculations
Integration of Celestial Navigation with Electronic Systems
Integration of Celestial Navigation with Electronic Systems
Compliance with International Maritime Regulations and Standards
Compliance with International Maritime Regulations and Standards
Understanding Nautical Astronomy and the Use of Celestial Bodies
Understanding Nautical Astronomy and the Use of Celestial Bodies
Case Studies of Celestial Navigation Incidents and Lessons Learned
Case Studies of Celestial Navigation Incidents and Lessons Learned
Our Process
Your Path to Becoming a Licensed Captain:

A Simple 3-Step Process to Get Certified and Start Your Maritime Career

01

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).

02

Enroll & Prepare

Register online or at a Sea School location. Ensure you meet eligibility requirements and start reviewing the provided study materials.

03

Get Certified

After finishing the course, you will need to submit your application to the Coast Guard to receive your Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC).

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our team

The Instructors Behind the Course

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What We Provide:

What Students Need to Bring:

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Advance your Maritime Career

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Advance your Maritime Career!

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frequently asked questions

Celestial Navigation Frequently Asked Questions

What does OICNW stand for?

Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (OICNW): is the certification for a qualified mariner who can be responsible for a ship's navigational bridge watch.

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.

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