
Flagship Program
Bridge Watch Rating (BWR)
Program Tuition: $6,995
The Bridge Watch Rating (BWR) program is WAMTC’s flagship training program, preparing students for entry-level careers aboard commercial vessels operating across Canada.
Quick Facts
- Duration:
- 15 weeks
- Location:
- Hay River, NWT (with some community offerings)
- Schedule:
- Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
- Intakes:
- Fall & Winter
Program Overview
Program Snapshot
The Bridge Watch Rating (BWR) program is a 15-week maritime training program designed to prepare students for entry-level deckhand and bridge watch positions aboard marine vessels.
Training is delivered to Transport Canada certification standards, ensuring graduates are prepared to work on commercial vessels operating across Canada’s inland and coastal waters. Funding support may be available for eligible students.
Career Opportunities
- Deckhand / Ordinary Seaman on cargo vessels, tugboats, and passenger ships
- Bridge Watch Rating crew on Canadian Coast Guard operations
- Deck crew on tug and barge, marine construction, and offshore support vessels
- Entry-level positions with shipping companies, fisheries, and government fleets
Certifications You’ll Earn
Marine Basic First Aid
Emergency medical response for shipboard environments.
Marine Emergency Duties
Personal survival techniques, fire prevention, and onboard emergency response.
ROC-M Radio Certificate
Certification to operate marine VHF radios on Canadian vessels.
Small Vessel Operator (SVOP)
Foundational knowledge to operate small commercial vessels.
Ready to start your maritime career?
Seats are limited to 12 per intake. Apply early to secure your spot in our next cohort.
Admissions
Requirements
To apply for the Bridge Watch Rating program, applicants must meet the following requirements. If you’re missing prerequisites, alternate pathways are available.
Detailed Requirements
Questions? Contact admissions or call 867-874-2358
Training Details
Program Logistics
Location
Hay River, NWT
Most classes at WAMTC's Hay River campus, with community offerings possible
Duration
15 Weeks
Full-time intensive program
Schedule
Mon–Fri
Monday to Friday, 8:30 to 3:30, excluding statutory holidays and winter break
Class Size
12 Students
Small cohort for hands-on learning
Intakes
Fall & Winter
Two cohorts per year
Investment
Costs & Funding
WAMTC works with federal, territorial, and industry partners to reduce financial barriers. Multiple funding pathways may be available.
Program Tuition
What May Be Covered Through Funding
Personal Expenses Not Covered
Funding Options
What You’ll Learn
Curriculum
Training aligns with Transport Canada standards and international STCW competencies. After 15 weeks, graduates receive a Bridge Watch Rating Certificate of Proficiency and are prepared to begin their cadetship at sea.
Core Training Modules
Chartwork & Navigation
Read nautical charts, measure courses and distances, and assist with navigation.
Collision Regulations
International rules governing vessel traffic and safe navigation.
Bridge Equipment & Nav Aids
GPS, radar, electronic navigation systems, and visual aids.
Seamanship & Deck Ops
Line handling, knot tying, deck maintenance, and shipboard operations.
Bridge Watchkeeping
Lookout duties, monitoring vessel traffic, and supporting bridge officers.
Emergency Response
Fire prevention, survival procedures, and onboard emergency response.
Marine Communications
Marine radio communication and distress procedures.
Safety & Regulations
Canadian marine safety regulations and seafarer responsibilities.
Certifications Earned
Graduates must complete 10 hours at the helm and 60 days of sea time before Transport Canada may issue a full Certificate of Competency (CoC).
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Get Started
Ready to begin your maritime career?
Apply for the Bridge Watch Rating program or contact us with any questions about admissions, funding, and next steps.