The IMO's 2024 Manila Amendments have come fully into force as of 2026. For Turkish seafarers, this means renewing certain certificates.
What Has Changed?
Safety training under the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) framework has been updated. Certificates for basic safety, firefighting, first aid and survival techniques must now be renewed every five years.
A new certification category has been created for electro-technical officers. Additional training is required for personnel who will work on passenger vessels and ro-ro ferries.
The Situation in Turkey
The Directorate General of Maritime Affairs under the Ministry of Transport has updated the list of approved training institutions. The number of accredited centres in Istanbul, İzmir and Bodrum has been increased.
Practical advice for crew working on charter boats: check your certificate validity dates. Encountering a certificate problem mid-season creates serious issues for both port inspections and insurance.
A certificate is not a piece of paper — it is a promise given at sea.