Small Vessel Machinery Operator Certificate

The holder of a Small Vessel Machinery Operator Certificate may act as Chief Engineer or Watchkeeping Engineer on a motor vessel, with the following limitations:

  • Passenger Vessel:
    • Less than 1,500 kW – Sheltered Waters and Near Coastal Class 2, less than 6 hours duration.
    • Less than 750 kW – Sheltered Waters and Limited Near Coastal Class 2;
  • Cargo Vessel
    • Less than 2,000 kW – Sheltered Waters and Near Coastal Class 2, less than 6 hours duration;
  • Tug:
    • Less than 3,000 kW – Sheltered Waters and Near Coastal Class 2, less than 6 hours duration;
    • Less than 500 GRT – No more than five nautical miles from a sheltered dock.

This course does not require approval by the Private Training Institution Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills & Training. As such, PTIB did not review this course.

An applicant for a Small Vessel Machinery Operator Certificate shall:

  • acquire at least two months of qualifying service as an Engineer or a Rating performing engine-room duties on one or more motor vessels;
  • provide the following certificates to the examiner:
  • pass the following examinations:
    • written examination on General Engineering Knowledge of Small Vessels, after meeting the requirements of items 1 and 2 above; and
    • after passing the examination referred to in paragraph (a),
      • an oral examination on General Engineering Knowledge of Small Vessels, if applying for an Unrestricted Certificate and
      • a practical examination on board the vessel for which the Certificate is sought if applying for the Cargo Vessel less than 2,000 kW Restricted Certificate referred to above.

This program does not require approval by the Private Training Institution Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills & Training. As such, PTIB did not review this program.

The following certificates are required to obtain a Transport Canada certification:

Marine Basic First Aid,

MED Basic Safety or MED Domestic Vessel Safety 

At least 2 months of sea time of which one month (Minimum) must be performing engine room duties.

Course Availibility

 

Location Start Date End Date Cost Status
Ladysmith Nov. 16, 2026 Nov. 25, 2026 $1,900 OPEN

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