New Zealand Certificate in Domestic Maritime Operations (Coastal and Offshore) (Level 5)
Fisheries
A course by
Manukau Institute of Technology
Earn your Skipper Coastal and Offshore (SCO) certificate to operate working, passenger, or fishing vessels (under 24 metres) in coastal and offshore limits through a specialised and practical maritime programme.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 2 locations
It will take a total of 17 weeks


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Work as a skipper on coastal and offshore vessels
Operate working, passenger, or fishing vessels under 24 metres within prescribed limits.

Apply maritime safety and emergency response
Implement and maintain safety of life and property at sea, conduct emergency responses including first aid, fire and sea survival.

Plan and conduct navigation and passage
Use meteorology and navigation aids to plan and execute coastal and offshore passages, determine position and manage route safety.
What You're Signing Up For
Advance your maritime career by gaining the knowledge and practical skills required to work as a coastal or offshore vessel skipper. This internationally recognized certificate covers essential safety, navigation, communication, and management topics—enabling graduates to take charge as Chief Mate or progress towards becoming a vessel Master. The programme includes block courses, practical simulator training, and covers international maritime standards.
Course Content
- STCW basic safety training: basic first aid
- STCW basic safety training: basic sea survival
- STCW basic safety training: basic fire fighting
- Meteorology – SCO
- MGROC radio operation
- Coastal navigation and passage planning
- Electronic navigation aids
- General knowledge – orals preparation
- Stability SCO
What you need to know first
Open entry for domestic students.
International applicants require evidence of English proficiency (IELTS 5.5 with no band less than 5 or equivalent).

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Maritime Transport
Fishing Industry
Marine Tourism

Future employment opportunities might be
Skipper on working ferry or fishing vessel (less than 24 metres in coastal and offshore limits)
Chief Mate
Marine operations management
Pathway towards vessel Master


Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details