Radar Observer

There are several good reasons why you should take the Radar Observer Class. Firstly, federal regulations (46 CFR 15.815) state that deck officers on some vessels must hold a Radar Observer endorsement. Secondly, the Rules of the Road imply that deck officers on radar equipped vessels know how to use radar. Thirdly, having a radar observer endorsement makes you more employable. And lastly, the class will teach you how to get the most out of your radar. In short, if you have the equipment, good seamanship says that you should know how to use it.

The Radar Class

Columbia Pacific (ColPac) Maritime offers the Radar Observer Unlimited class about once a month. The class is limited to six students. But most classes have only two or three. The fact is, we will hold a class for one student. Meaning, we will never cancel the class because of low enrollment. And the instruction is always personal.

This newly remodeled radar classroom has three Buffalo Computer Graphic (BGC) radar simulators. Instruction includes considerable hands-on training using radar simulations for both navigation and collision avoidance exercises.

To summarize, this class covers the basic setup and operation of radar. Including how to measure distance and direction for the purpose of navigation and collision avoidance. But, most important, the class explores the concept of relative motion. This is important because, the most common cause of radar assisted collision is not understanding relative motion.

Radar Observer Unlimited Endorsement

Radar Observer Unlimited is a deck officer endorsement on your Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). As such it expires every 5-years with your MMC. According to federal regulations (46 CFR 11.480) there are two options to renew the endorsement.

Firstly, document 1-year of experience in the past 5-years as deck watch officer on a radar equipped vessel.

Secondly, provide a course completion certificate from a USCG approved Radar Renewal class. ColPac offers a one-day Radar Renewal Class for mariners who do not have the required experience. This class is available most any day the school is open.

Please call 503-841-6066 to register for a class or for more information.

Visit the Radar Observer Unlimited class page >>

Test your skills with this FREE Radar Renewal Workbook (includes printable radar transfer plotsheets) >>