Skilltrade has provided Hydrographic Survey training since 2000. The Category B course in Hydrographic Surveying began in 2007 in coöperation with STC in Rotterdam. The course was first recognized by the FIG/IHO/ICA International Board on Standards of Competence for Hydrographic Surveyors and Nautical Cartographers (IBSC) in 2008. Since it began, Skilltrade
has trained over 230 individuals from various countries around the world in the field of hydrographic survey. The Category B course has been enthusiastically welcomed and endorsed by a range of international authorities and market leaders operating in the marine oil and gas industry, coastal and port environment and hydrographic fields. In January 2014 the course was transferred to a new location, the Nova Nautical College in IJmuiden. Addressing demands of a changing industry while adhering to ISBC requirements, the program is under continuous revision.

6 Reasons to Choose Skilltrade CAT B training

1. The Skilltrade Hydrographic Survey Category B Course complies with Publication S-5B of the FIG/IHO/ICA International Board on Standards of Competence for Hydrographic Surveyors and Nautical Cartographers (IBSC), Category B and is fully recognized as such.
2. All lectures are developed and taught by specialized and experienced field professionals.
3. In addition to classroom instruction there are guest lectures, site visits and workshops from various collaborating survey companies and survey departments. For example, Port of Rotterdam, Dredging/Port project, Kongsberg (Multibeam), van Oord – Workshop visit Moerdijk (project preparation), Periplus (Seabed interpretation), The Hydrographic Service of the Royal Netherlands Navy (Tides, Law of the and Navigation Charts), iXBlue (inertial navigation), Rijkswaterstaat (offshore surveying) and QPS Qinsy, Qimera and Fledermaus survey software.
4. The Skilltrade Handbook of Offshore Surveying (volumes I, II and III) is a comprehensive compendium which is an indispensable reference for the modern-day hydrographer. These books are the basis of the study material for this course and are included in the course fee.
5. Diversity. The students represent a diverse group of individuals from different backgrounds, each bringing with them their own experiences, allowing students to share and learn from each other. Typically, the group consists of harbour surveyors, engineers, offshore surveyors, dredging surveyors and beginning surveyors. This provides for a rich environment for learning.
6. The programme is demanding and participants are expected to study and prepare outside of course hours. It is also possible to study without access to internet: the E-learning modules and recordings of the Teams lectures are available offline. The course requires  9 examinations of proficiency . Our course coordinator is available to monitor and guide the students.