Online Dynamic Positioning Training Course

Build the Confidence to Make Better Dynamic Positioning Decisions.

A practical post-certification training course designed to help Dynamic Positioning Operators build the confidence and clarity needed to make sound decisions during routine operations and emergency situations.

Delivery Mode
Live Online Sessions
Language
English
Structure
8 Independent Modules
Duration
4 Hours per Module
Price
$300 per Module

Why this course

Certification provides the foundation, but real operations demand practical understanding, sound judgment, and confident decision-making.

Many Dynamic Positioning Operators successfully complete mandatory certification requirements, yet still face situations onboard where there is uncertainty in applying knowledge to real operational challenges.

Mandatory training often focuses on examination requirements, leaving limited opportunities for practical discussions and deeper operational understanding.

Greater operational understanding benefits not only DPOs but also vessel owners and managers by improving decision-making, reducing downtime, and supporting safer operations.

Our approach

This course has been developed to strengthen the knowledge DPOs already possess while addressing gaps in understanding.

The objective is to help participants better understand:

  • Why are certain concepts important.
  • How systems behave during operations.
  • When specific decisions should be made.

The focus is not on examination preparation but on developing practical understanding, operational thinking, and confidence.

Recommended learning approach

Slow and Consistent Learning Moving Forward.

We recommend enrolling in a maximum of two modules at a time. A gradual learning approach allows participants to better absorb concepts, reflect on discussions, and confidently apply learning to real operational situations.

2Max modules at a time
  • Reflect between sessions
  • Apply learning offshore
  • Build lasting confidence

Modules

The course is arranged as independent micro-modules.

Each module covers a focused set of related topics and can be selected individually based on the participant's learning requirements.

There is no requirement to complete the entire course. Modules can only be purchased individually.

  • Live Online Sessions
  • English
  • Session Recordings
  • 5-8 Learners per batch

4 Hours · English · Live Zoom · Monthly batches

Build a strong foundation in Dynamic Positioning by understanding its purpose, principles, and different methods of vessel control used during offshore operations.

Key learning areas

  • What Dynamic Positioning is
  • Why DP is required and its operational purpose
  • Principles and core concept of a DP system
  • DP using manual controls and levers
  • DP using joystick control
  • DP using automatic DP control

Recommended for

Candidates from ratings backgrounds and NCV Certificate of Competency holders.

Important Note: For these candidates, Module 1 should be completed first.

4 Hours · English · Live Zoom · Monthly batches

Develop a practical understanding of safety principles, redundancy concepts, and risk management considerations that support safer DP operations.

Key learning areas

  • Safety principles and risk management
  • DP consequence classes
  • Redundancy and cost-benefit considerations
  • Monitoring redundancy
  • Consequence analysis and system messages
  • Testing consequence analysis

Recommended for

Especially important for Junior DPOs.

4 Hours · English · Live Zoom · Monthly batches

Understand how DP systems are structured, how different components interact, and the responsibilities of a DPO while operating on DP.

Key learning areas

  • Components and sub-components of a DP system
  • DP subsystems and their organization
  • Organization of DP equipment
  • Placing the vessel under automatic DP control
  • Watchkeeping while operating on DP
  • Case study: Parting tow rope and amber alert response

Recommended for

Important for trainees and Junior DPOs.

4 Hours · English · Live Zoom · Monthly batches

Understand how position reference systems work and how they contribute to safe and reliable Dynamic Positioning operations.

Key learning areas

  • Position referencing principles
  • Reference pooling
  • Weighted average calculations
  • Standard deviation and variance
  • Minimum prediction error
  • Risk management based on number of position reference systems

Recommended for

Very important for Junior and Senior DPOs.

4 Hours · English · Live Zoom · Monthly batches

Learn how to interpret the DP operating system, understand alerts and alarms, and use operational tools effectively during routine and abnormal situations.

Key learning areas

  • System logic and layout
  • Alarms and alerts
  • Visual and audible monitoring
  • System testing
  • Operational issues and doubts
  • Footprint and capability plots

4 Hours · English · Live Zoom · Monthly batches

Understand how capability plots, modelling, environmental forces, and calibration support operational planning and safe decision-making.

Key learning areas

  • Footprint and capability plots
  • Excursion and drift-off
  • Wind feed-forward
  • Mathematical modelling
  • Reference origin
  • PRS calibration
  • Footprint related case study

4 Hours · English · Live Zoom · Monthly batches

Understand how median testing supports position reliability and assists DPOs in evaluating the consistency of position reference data.

Key learning areas

  • Purpose of the median test
  • What the test verifies
  • Advantages
  • Limitations
  • Use during critical operations

4 Hours · English · Live Zoom · Monthly batches

Learn how to assess emergency situations, identify alert conditions, and make timely decisions to protect personnel, assets, and ongoing operations.

Key learning areas

  • Loss of position
  • Loss of redundancy
  • DP functionality
  • Change of control mode
  • Priority setting during emergencies

Trainer profile

The trainer plays a central role in the success of any learning course.

Courses are delivered by highly experienced Master DPOs with extensive offshore operational experience, a passion for empowering trainees, and proven expertise in training delivery.

Capt. S. N. Thakur

Master DPO · Offshore Industry Expert

50+
Years of experience
5,000+
DP Operators trained
2007
Training since

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who should attend this training?

    This course is designed for certified Dynamic Positioning Operators who want to strengthen their operational understanding and confidence beyond mandatory certification.

  • Can I enroll in individual modules?

    Yes. Every module is independent, allowing you to choose only the topics most relevant to your learning needs.

  • How are the sessions conducted?

    All modules are delivered through live online instructor-led sessions.

  • Is this a certification course?

    No. This is a post-certification professional development course focused on practical operational learning and decision-making.

  • Will study material be provided?

    Relevant learning material and reference resources will be shared wherever applicable.

  • Can I interact with the instructor during the session?

    Yes. The sessions are discussion-based and include opportunities for questions, practical discussions, and knowledge sharing.

  • How are doubts resolved?

    Questions can be discussed during live sessions and through the dedicated Discord community.

Support

Need Help Choosing the Right Modules?

We understand that every professional has different learning requirements and operational experiences.

If you are unsure which modules would be most beneficial for you or your team, feel free to reach out to us.

For corporate training requirements and customized learning plans, please contact us for personalized schedules and pricing.