Efficient Deckhand (EDH)

MCA Efficient Deckhand (EDH)

• Certification: MCA
• Recognition: Worldwide
• STCW Compliance: Regulation II/5
• Suitable For: Deckhands, Bosuns
• Experience Level: Sea service required
• Duration: 5 Days
• Certificate Validity: Lifetime

Why This Course Matters

This course is a mandatory step for crew progressing toward OOW <3000GT. It builds technical confidence through seamanship, mooring, anchoring, ropework, and cargo handling. Serving as the bridge between deckhand and officer roles, EDH closes the knowledge gap between general deck crew and leadership positions onboard. Approved by the MCA and recognised commercially worldwide, it is accepted for service on both private and commercial vessels.

Course Structure

Practical Seamanship Skills

Learn core tasks like anchoring, mooring, cargo handling, line throwing, and shipboard routines.

Ropework, Knots & Rigging

Practise splicing, whipping, and tying essential knots used daily in deck operations.

Watchkeeping & Bridge Familiarity

Understand lookout duties, bridge communication, and responsibilities during deck watches.

Vessel Operations & Safety

Study deck procedures, emergency gear, and stability principles relevant to safe operations.

Useful Information

What’s Included

• Comprehensive course materials
• Daily hot lunch
• Coffee station and snacks
• Free rescheduling up to 7 days before course start

Accommodation (available at additional cost)

• Shared and private rooms
• Includes breakfast
• Swimming pool
• Self-service laundry
• Full board meals available

Prerequisites

• Minimum Age: 17 years
• Sea Service: At least 6 months of documented sea service on vessels 15m or larger (Category C and D waters accepted at full rate)

Must meet one of the following qualification routes:

• Yachtmaster Offshore: Hold an MCA-accepted Yachtmaster Offshore certificate
• Yacht Rating: Yacht Rating CoP + 6 months onboard service + Steering Certificate
• Navigational Watch Rating: Hold a Navigational Watch Rating CoP
• Boatmaster Licence: Hold a Boat Master Licence (Tier 1 Level 2)
• Tug Rating: Tug Rating CoP + 6 months service + Steering Certificate or NWR CoP
• Officer of the Watch (Cadet): Enrolled in an MCA-approved UK or overseas cadet training programme
• Fishing Vessel Route: UK Class 1 or 2 Fishing CoC or Seafish Under 16.5m Skipper’s Certificate + 6 months service