Small Vessel Operator Proficiency Certificate

The SVOP provides basic theoretic knowledge to those with specified practical skills and experience in small commercial power-driven vessels less than 5 gross tonnage or fishing vessels less than 15 gross tonnage. In addition to the SVOP Certificate, vessel operator must also hold valid MED, and ROC-M Certificates. At least, one crew member must hold a valid Marine Basic First Aid certificate.

All commercially registered vessels operating in Canada are required by Transport Canada to carry a licensed Master or Skipper. The Small Vessel Operator Proficiency Certificate is required to operate the following small commercial vessels:

• Passenger-carrying vessels that carry less than 12 passengers, are 5 gross tons or less, and operate in Near Coastal 2 or Sheltered waters.
• Work boats such as water taxis, cargo boats, sport-fishing boats, charter boats, crew boats, and whale-watching boats that are 5 gross tons or less and operate in Near Coast 2 and Sheltered Waters.
• Commercial fishing vessels that are 15 gross tons or less and operate in Near Coastal 2 and Sheltered Waters.

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.