You may have heard or read it. However, you’re not sure about what MARINA Class 1 and Class 2 COC is. Well, it’s very simple. No complications, just pure sea service requirement and experience.
The Class 1 COC…
The Class 1 COC refers to a COC that is valid for use in 3,000 GRT (Gross Registered Tonnage) and above. A holder of a Class 1 COC will be able to use his COC on bigger ships than that of Class 2 COC.
On common occasion, seafarers plying overseas normally has 3,000 GRT or more experience in their resume.
The Class 2 COC…
Well, the Class 2 COC is a COC that is valid for use in 500 GRT to 3,000 GRT. It’s that simple. Where do you think this tonnage is most common to? Yes, you’re right, this tonnages are mostly on domestic vessels.
This is just like Class 1 COC, only with lesser tonnage.
I have mixed sea service, what to choose?
Many seafarers started out in the domestic vessels. But, we all know most of them are aiming to board international vessels. In this case, just accumulate sea service records of 3, 000 GRT or more. Do not use your previous sea service anymore if your sea service happens to be less than 3, 000 GRT.
If majority of your sea service records is 500 GRT to 3,000 GRT then you might as well choose Class 2. Its easier that way. Even if you have a sea service records of 3,000 GRT or more, it does not count if you apply for Class 2 and vice versa.
Your sea service should not mix up. Count your sea service basing only the prescribed tonnage and select the appropriate Class on your theoretical examination. Remember, Class 1 and Class 2 have different sea service requirements.
If i were to choose for you, I’ll choose Class 1. It is far more advantageous than the Class 2. If you have more sea service with 3, 000 GRT, then go for Class 1. This decision will solely be based from your sea service records.
You don’t have to be confused on this MARINA Class 1 and Class 2 COC.
RELATED: NEW MARINA CIRCULARS – ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
I have Class 2 COC and wish to be issued a Class 1 COC, what do I do?
For Masters and Chief Mates who wish to be issued a Class 1 COC, they need to provide the following:
A.) Approved Seagoing Service
For Chief Mates:
Not less than 12 months OIC-NW on 3, 000 GRT or more within the last 5 years.
For Masters:
1. Not less than 36 months OIC-NW on 3, 000 GRT or more
2. not less than 12 months OIC-NW plus 12 months Chief Mate on ships 3,000 GRT or more within the last 5 years
B.) Upgrading Training
This may follow soon as MARINA may develop a course for this.
I hope this clears questions about MARINA Class 1 and Class 2 COC differences and its importance.
Obviously, all COCs are important. Without it you can never be called a ship’s officer.