TRAINING COURSES

Maritime Pilots Institute’s broad-range of training courses and modules help pilots learn and retain new skills. We can also create custom training programs specific to the needs of your organization and pilots, and many of our courses can be brought to you! Below is a sample of the common courses that we offer. (MPI does not offer STCW training.)

Course TitleManned ModelSimulatorClassroomRemoteOnline
Anti-Harassment for PilotsOnline
Anti-Harassment for Pilots

Classroom-based program that meets or exceeds the US State Ship Pilot requirements for training.

Azipod Maneuvering for PilotsSimulatorRemote
Azipod Maneuvering for Pilots

This specialized course provides comprehensive training on handling vessels equipped with azimuthing electric propulsion systems. Pilots learn advanced maneuvering techniques through high-fidelity simulator exercises replicating various port conditions and scenarios. The training covers azipod capabilities, limitations, emergency procedures, and optimal handling strategies for safe and efficient port operations.

Bridge Resource Management for Pilots (BRMP)ClassroomRemote
Bridge Resource Management for Pilots (BRMP)

The BRMP course focuses on optimizing bridge team integration and resource management for maritime pilots. Participants develop advanced skills in communication, leadership, situational awareness, and decision-making when working with ship crews. Through case studies and practical exercises, pilots learn to effectively manage bridge resources during critical navigation operations while addressing the unique challenges of temporarily joining established bridge teams.

Collision Regulations for Pilots (COLREG)ClassroomOnline
Collision Regulations for Pilots (COLREG)

This comprehensive course provides in-depth study of international regulations for preventing collisions at sea, with specific application to pilotage operations. Through real-world scenario analysis and case studies, pilots gain expertise in interpreting and applying COLREG rules in complex maritime traffic situations. The program covers vessel encounters, restricted visibility operations, traffic schemes, and pilotage-specific decision-making to enhance navigational safety.

ECDIS for PilotsSimulatorRemote
ECDIS for Pilots

Specially designed for maritime pilots, this course provides essential knowledge and skills for effectively utilizing Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems during pilotage operations. Through simulator-based training, pilots learn to quickly assess and interpret ECDIS information, understand system limitations, identify potential errors, and interface with various ECDIS configurations they may encounter. The training emphasizes practical applications relevant to pilotage rather than ship operations.

Emergency Shiphandling for PilotsManned ModelSimulator
Emergency Shiphandling for Pilots

This intensive course prepares pilots to handle emergency situations that may arise during pilotage operations. Using manned models and high-fidelity simulators, pilots practice controlling vessels during various emergency scenarios including equipment failures, steering malfunctions, power loss, fire, extreme weather conditions, and more. The program develops critical thinking and shiphandling skills under pressure, with emphasis on immediate assessment, quick decision-making, and effective action in high-stress situations.

Ethics for PilotsClassroomRemoteOnline
Ethics for Pilots

This course examines the ethical dimensions of maritime pilotage through case studies, group discussions, and scenario-based exercises. Pilots explore professional ethics, decision-making frameworks, and responsibilities when facing challenging operational situations. Topics include balancing commercial pressures with safety, maintaining professional integrity, managing conflicts of interest, and upholding public trust. The program helps pilots develop ethical reasoning skills applicable to their unique role in maritime operations.

Legal Aspects of PilotageClassroomRemote
Legal Aspects of Pilotage

This comprehensive course examines the legal framework surrounding maritime pilotage operations. Topics include pilot authority and responsibility, liability issues, international and local regulations, incident reporting requirements, insurance considerations, and legal protections for pilots. Through case study analysis of relevant legal precedents, pilots gain essential knowledge of their legal position while operating in various jurisdictions, helping them navigate complex legal waters with confidence.

Manned Model Advanced ShiphandlingManned Model
Manned Model Advanced Shiphandling

This advanced course utilizes scaled ship models to provide pilots with hands-on experience mastering complex vessel maneuvering techniques. Building on foundational shiphandling skills, participants tackle challenging scenarios including narrow channel navigation, difficult berthing arrangements, and adverse environmental conditions. The training develops an intuitive understanding of vessel behavior and response, allowing pilots to confidently handle vessels in the most demanding port situations.

Manned Model ShiphandlingManned Model
Manned Model Shiphandling

This foundational course uses scaled ship models to provide pilots with practical experience in vessel maneuvering fundamentals. Operating on a specially designed lake, participants develop a deeper understanding of ship behavior, including how vessels respond to various rudder commands, engine settings, and environmental factors. The hands-on training builds essential skills in ship control, berthing/unberthing operations, and emergency maneuvers in a realistic yet controlled environment.

Manned Model Ultra Large Containership ShiphandlingManned Model
Manned Model Ultra Large Containership Shiphandling

This specialized course focuses on the unique handling characteristics of ultra-large container vessels (ULCV) using accurately scaled manned models. Pilots learn to manage the distinct challenges these massive ships present, including high windage effects, limited maneuverability, and special considerations for port entry and berthing. Training scenarios replicate critical operations with these vessels in confined waters, preparing pilots to safely handle the largest container ships calling at their ports.

Maritime Pilot Safety Systems - Ladder Safety & Personal Protective EquipmentClassroomRemote
Maritime Pilot Safety Systems - Ladder Safety & Personal Protective Equipment

This critical safety course addresses one of the highest risk aspects of pilotage operations - pilot transfer arrangements. Covering international regulations, best practices, inspection techniques, and emergency procedures, pilots learn to identify unsafe ladder setups and take appropriate action. The program also covers personal protective equipment selection, maintenance, and proper use, including fall arrest systems, PFDs, and safety clothing specifically designed for maritime pilots.

Maritime Pilot Safety Systems - Pilot Boat Crew SafetyClassroomRemote
Maritime Pilot Safety Systems - Pilot Boat Crew Safety

This specialized safety course focuses on operational procedures and best practices for pilot boat crews. Topics include safe vessel operations, crew coordination during pilot transfers, emergency response protocols, man-overboard recovery techniques, and weather assessment. The training emphasizes the critical role pilot boat crews play in ensuring the safety of maritime pilots during one of the most dangerous aspects of pilotage operations - embarking and disembarking vessels at sea.

Personal Cybersecurity for PilotsClassroomRemoteOnline
Personal Cybersecurity for Pilots

This course addresses the growing cybersecurity threats facing maritime pilots. Participants learn to identify common cyber risks, protect personal and professional electronic devices, secure communication channels, and safeguard sensitive navigational data. The training covers password security, safe use of portable piloting units, protection against phishing attacks, secure Wi-Fi practices aboard vessels, and incident reporting procedures. The course is tailored specifically to the unique operational environment of maritime pilots.

Pilot Electronics - Portable Piloting Unit Training for PilotsClassroomRemote
Pilot Electronics - Portable Piloting Unit Training for Pilots

This comprehensive training course covers the use of Portable Piloting Units (PPUs) in maritime pilotage operations. Pilots learn to effectively utilize these electronic navigation aids, including setup procedures, data interpretation, integration with vessel systems, and troubleshooting common issues. The course emphasizes both the capabilities and limitations of PPU technology, ensuring pilots understand when and how to use these tools to enhance situational awareness and navigational safety.

Pilot Incident ManagementClassroomRemote
Pilot Incident Management

This essential course prepares pilots to effectively manage incidents that may occur during pilotage operations. Participants learn proper incident documentation procedures, crisis communication protocols, evidence preservation techniques, legal considerations, and post-incident responsibilities. Through realistic case studies and scenarios, pilots develop skills to handle the aftermath of maritime incidents professionally, responsibly, and in accordance with regulatory requirements and best practices.

Pilot Use of Tractor TugsSimulator
Pilot Use of Tractor Tugs

This specialized course focuses on the effective utilization of tractor tugs during ship handling operations. Through simulator-based scenarios, pilots learn the unique capabilities and operating principles of various tractor tug types including Voith Schneider, azimuth stern drive (ASD), and rotor tugs. The training covers optimal positioning, communication protocols with tug masters, and specialized maneuvers to maximize the effectiveness of these powerful assist vessels during challenging pilotage operations.

Practical Leadership for PilotsClassroomRemote
Practical Leadership for Pilots

This course develops the essential leadership skills maritime pilots need both aboard vessels and within their organizations. Through case studies and interactive scenarios, pilots enhance their abilities in clear communication, authority establishment, situational leadership, and multicultural interaction. The program addresses the unique challenges of leading a bridge team as an outside authority figure while also exploring pilots\' roles as leaders within their associations and the broader maritime community.

Radar Use for PilotsSimulator
Radar Use for Pilots

This focused course provides pilots with advanced knowledge and skills for effectively utilizing marine radar systems during pilotage operations. Through simulator-based training, participants learn to quickly optimize radar settings for different environments, interpret complex radar images, identify potential hazards, and use radar as a primary navigation tool in restricted visibility. The training emphasizes practical techniques relevant to the unique challenges faced by pilots when navigating in confined waters and busy port approaches.

Restricted Visibility NavigationSimulatorRemote
Restricted Visibility Navigation

This specialized course prepares pilots to safely navigate vessels in fog, heavy rain, snow, and other conditions of restricted visibility. Through high-fidelity simulator scenarios, participants develop advanced skills in electronic navigation, radar interpretation, vessel handling in limited visibility, and application of COLREGS Rule 19. The training emphasizes critical decision-making, strategic planning, and effective bridge team management when visual cues are severely limited or absent during pilotage operations.

Sleep, Fatigue, & Lifestyle Management for PilotsClassroomRemote
Sleep, Fatigue, & Lifestyle Management for Pilots

This wellness-focused course addresses the unique challenges maritime pilots face regarding sleep disruption, irregular schedules, and fatigue risk. Participants learn evidence-based strategies for managing sleep patterns, recognizing fatigue symptoms, implementing effective countermeasures, and maintaining overall health despite irregular work hours. The program draws on the latest sleep science research while providing practical tools specifically tailored to the operational realities of maritime pilotage.

Team PilotingSimulatorClassroom
Team Piloting

Team piloting

Train-the-Trainer for PilotsClassroomRemoteOnline
Train-the-Trainer for Pilots

This course prepares experienced pilots to effectively train and mentor new pilots within their organizations. Participants learn adult learning principles, instructional design fundamentals, assessment techniques, and coaching strategies specifically tailored to maritime pilotage. The program addresses the unique challenges of transferring complex piloting skills, local knowledge, and professional judgment to apprentice pilots through structured on-the-job training programs and formal instructional settings.

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