Master (Yachts) - Stability

About this course

This course builds on the knowledge gained in the stability section of the OOW (Yachts) General Ship Knowledge course and gives a greater insight into the subject. 

The course covers the basic principles of hydrostatics, hull form and static and initial stability. It also includes the interpretation of curves of statical stability, ships’ stability data and calculations involving loading and shifting of weights, dry docking, longitudinal stability and basic calculation. 

What you'll study

Basic principles 

• Basic principles of hydrostatics and related terms 
• Fineness of hull form and resistance to forward motion 
• Statical stability 
• Initial stability 
• Loading, discharging and shifting weights 

List and related problems 

• List 
• The inclining experiment 
• The effect of slack tanks on the centre of gravity 

Curves of statical stability 

• Curves of statical stability 
• Stability data supplied to yachts 

Loll, dry-docking and longitudinal stability 

• Angle of loll 
• Dry-docking 
• Longitudinal stability 

Useful tips

• Read through the exam syllabus. 
• Your pass certificate is valid for three years. 
• You do not need a Notice of Eligibility (NoE) to attend this course. However you will need an NoE for your MCA oral examination. Download the application form. Allow at least six weeks (currently even more) for the NoE to be processed by the MCA. 
• Do the ‘proper’ PSCRB course instead of ‘Advanced Sea Survival for Yachtsmen’. The latter has not got an STCW Code which has the following implications: Not all flag states recognise the Advanced Sea Survival, meaning you might have to do the PSCRB later anyway. Your certificate will have a negative endorsement (‘not to be used on vessels with davit-launched life rafts’). There is also no updating course available for the Advanced Sea Survival. 
• Pre-study makes the difference. That’s why we send you the course notes as soon as you book. 

Notice of Eligibility (NoE) and oral exams guidance

When you have accrued sufficient sea time to sit an oral exam with the MCA, you are required to apply for a Notice of Eligibility (NoE). 

This form can be downloaded from the MCA website and must be returned with original copies of your supporting documentation (sea service testimonials, STCW certificates, exam pass certificates and ENG1) to prove you are eligible for an oral exam. 

Once you have your NOE you can book your oral exam at any of the MCA offices throughout the UK. The MCA office you have chosen will not confirm your booking until you have received your NOE. Be aware they do have busy periods, so it is best to book your oral exam well in advance to ensure you get your preferred date. 

A Notice of Eligibility is valid for five years from date of issue, and for three years after a successful oral exam. You must apply for your NOE well in advance of your anticipated exam date as they can take up to six weeks to be processed.