Here follows the SS Nautical Training definition of Boatmaster (we are a training company, contact your Maritime Authority for clarification).
Please note that STCW Basic Safety Training, a valid fit for work medical certificate from an approved doctor and proof of seagoing time are prerequisites of getting a Boatmaster licence. If you do not know what any of these are, don’t read on. Go and find out.
A Boatmaster licence is issued to a qualified seafarer by the Maritime Authority in a country. A Boatmaster licence is required to work on a commercial boat, like a supply boat or crew boat.
The Boatmaster licence has three grades. The grades define the type and size of boat, and the area of operation of the licence holder.
A Boatmaster Grade 3 licence is usually required for operating an open boat, like a pirogue in sight of land. The Maritime Authority in your country might require that operators of a pirogue carrying passengers should hold a Boatmaster Grade 2 licence.
A Boatmaster Grade 2 licence is usually required for operating an open boat at night and boats with inboard engines within sight of land. A Boatmaster Grade 1 licence is usually required for operating around the region.
We will explain STCW and give some more information about the Basic Safety certificate.