RFPNW - do I need sea time or can I just go to school?`

[tank3355]

You may have noticed I have a lack of sea time accounted for from my previous questions. i'm going after a job in the offshore industry, I was in the navy and was in charge of a shoreside engineering division so did not ever go on a boat besides moving it in and out of dry dock. . .

I am working 3 jobs and saving like a nut with the intention of getting as much schooling as possible while I work on my sea time.

I was reading about getting a RFPNW, I can't seem to find an exact answer, some places say you can take schooling that eliminates some of or all of the sea time, anyone have an answer?

Also any suggestions for classes to take I'm more than open and trying to break into the OSV or Tug industry. Currently OS just getting my STCW soon.

[Swampfox]

I was reading about getting a RFPNW, I can't seem to find an exact answer, some places say you can take schooling that eliminates some of or all of the sea time, anyone have an answer? Currently OS just getting my STCW soon.

Yes you need sea time to get your full RFPNW signed off for an AB rating. You can take a 2 day class that will permit you to "lookout duties only" while you get your paperwork signed off. That gives you 1 year to get your paperwork/sea time aboard ship for the full RFPNW.

You can also take a 1 day simulator course, spend a lot of money, and get the assessments signed off. (if you already have the sea time accumulated for an AB, which I don't think you do.)

Look into quality maritime, MPT or Mitags.

[Capt. Phoenix]

The class from fletcher reduces the 180 days of sea time to 60 days. If you already have your ab, take that class. It would pay off in the increased pay of being an ab sooner.

[Robert]

RFPNW programs reduce the sea time requirement from 180 days to 60 days. Just be very sure that the particular school you choose actually offers that particular program. There are many out there that just do your assessments, but still require 180 days which you could do without any school training at all.

[captamericas]

RFPNW programs reduce the sea time requirement from 180 days to 60 days. Just be very sure that the particular school you choose actually offers that particular program. There are many out there that just do your assessments, but still require 180 days which you could do without any school training at all.

This is correct, please make sure that you know what you are getting into, Fletcher's program does reduce your watchstanding duties to 60 days , if you are trying to get your rating for your AB. However, if you are taking Fletcher "Assessments Only", then you will still require the full 180 days.

Fletcher offer three rating classes, please listen to what the instructor has to say, to ensure that you have enrolled in the proper class.