A Small Vessel Operator Proficiency (SVOP) training certificate lets you operate a small non-pleasure vessel in near coastal, class 2 and sheltered waters under normal operating conditions, including darkness and restricted visibility. It is an entry level domestic certificate issued by Transport Canada recognized training institutions.
On this page
- What the certificate lets you do
- Who is eligible
- What SVOP training teaches you
- Course structure
- Where to get SVOP training
- Transport Canada medical certificate
- Other training you need to operate a vessel
- Contact us
- Related links
What the certificate lets you do
On a near coastal, class 2 or sheltered waters voyage, this training certificate lets you:
- be operator of a vessel of up to 5 gross tonnage (except tugs)
- be master of a fishing vessel of up to 15 gross tonnage or not more than 12 metres in overall length.
Who is eligible
You must be at least 18 years old to get this training certificate.
What SVOP training teaches you
The SVOP training certificate course teaches you a basic understanding of:
- hazards in the marine environment
- preventing shipboard incidents
- practical skills for operating small commercial vessels
Course structure
The SVOP training course is 26 hours long and usually done over 4 days. There is an exam with 50 multiple choice questions at the end of the course.
You can find more information about this training certificate and the course syllabus in Transport Publication 14692 - Small Vessel Operator Proficiency Training Course (2007).
Where to get SVOP training
You can find the complete list of Transport Canada recognized training institutions that offer SVOP training in the publication Recognized Institutions and Approved Training Courses - TP 10655.
Transport Canada medical certificate
You don’t need a marine medical certificate to use a SVOP training certificate.
Other training you need to operate a vessel
To meet safe manning requirements, you may need more training than a SVOP training certificate, such as:
- Marine Emergency Duties certificate (MED)
- Radio Operator’s certificate (ROC-M)
The person designated to give first aid on board needs either:
- a valid Marine Basic First Aid training certificate
- a valid certificate from a two-day first aid course recognized by a province or a territory
It is your responsibility as a holder of a SVOP training certificate to have the appropriates trainings to operate your vessel safely and follow the Marine Personnel Regulations.
Contact us
Email: TC.MarinePersonnelIssues-Questionspersonnelmaritime.TC@tc.gc.ca
Mailing Address:
Seafarer Certification
330 Sparks St., 8th Floor
Tower C, Place de Ville
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0N5