I’m looking to renew my radar observer unlimited and seeing plenty classes for recertification but not many in my area for refresher. I made a call to a couple schools today to ask what type of review is in their one day recertification course. Both were fairly short with me which turned me off enough I didn’t go further and even ask what if any material they would send me pre class to help prepare. Both told me it was a quick review and test. Being 10 years since my last renewal and not wanting to spend the time & money w/o gaining the pass I’d prefer to take the 3 day refresher (1 of the schools suggested the full course ). I’ve been using radar but just for back & forth crossing of the location I’ve been working since coming out of continuity. It’s not required on this vessel coi but looking at another job.
So is my fear of not passing the recertification justified and/or any suggestions on a refresher course in the southeastern US?
Please forgive me for not answering your question, but does this apply? As of July 22, 2019:
This rule will affect mariners who have served on radar-equipped vessels, in a position that routinely uses radar for 1 year in the previous 5 years for navigation and collision avoidance purposes, and mariners who have taught a Coast Guard-approved or accepted radar course at least twice within the past 5 years. These mariners will no longer be required to complete a Coast Guard-approved or accepted radar refresher or recertification course in order to renew their radar observer endorsements. We are retaining the existing requirements for mariners seeking an original radar observer endorsement and for mariners who do not have 1 year of routine relevant sea service on board radar-equipped vessels in the previous 5 years or have not taught a Coast Guard-approved or accepted radar course at least twice within the past 5 years.
That’s from the Federal. Register…It’s codified in 46 CFR Section 11.480, paragraph (g).
You’re going to find it difficult to get a refresher course (3 days). By far most take the (1 day) recertification course. Even school who have an approved radar refresher course might not offer it if they cannot get enough students in a course to make it economical.
If you have at least one year of sea time in the past five you may not need a course at all, see CG-MMC Policy Letter 03-19.
Thanks unfortunately I don’t have the 1 year in past 5 with a vessel equipped with radar. Was screwed out of that during evaluation coming out of the roach hotel.
Hello @roundabout, this course is the full 35 hour (original) version, but it is completely online, including online simulation, online assessments, and online final exam. You can take it in your pajamas if you want and save on travel costs. It’s approved and meets the requirements for renewal as well as original. Radar Observer Unlimited (USCG approved) | Practical Navigator
Just send me a note to chris@practicalnavigator.org if I can help with anything, and good luck with your renewal process!
). I’ve been using radar but just for back & forth crossing of the location I’ve been working since coming out of continuity. It’s not required on this vessel coi but looking at another job.