This course is designed to train deck officers and those seeking a license in the proper use of radar for risk assessment, collision avoidance and navigation as required by Table A-II/1 of the Standards for Training and Certification of Watchkeepers (STCW) Code as amended. Various exercises will be initiated to provide the student with the knowledge required to properly use the radar and to recognize potential threats and determine proper action to avoid these threats utilizing the applicable Rules of the Road.

Mariners that successfully complete Maritime Institute's Radar Observer (Unlimited) course (MARINS 399), including successful demonstration of all practical assessments, will satisfy: 

• The radar observer training requirements of 46 CFR 11.480(d) for an endorsement as Radar Observer (Unlimited); AND
• The radar observer training requirements of 46 CFR 11.309(a)(4)(ii), 11.317(a)(3)(vi), 11.319(a)(4)(ii), and 11.321(a)(3)(vi); AND
• The radar observer standards of competence required by 46 CFR 11.309(a)(3) and 11.319(a)(3); STCW Code Section A-II/1 and Table A-II/1, as amended 2010, meeting the National Assessment Guidelines from NVICs 12-14(Ch-6) and 02-18(Ch-4) Tasks 1.4.A, 1.4.B, 3.1, 3.2A, 3.2.B, 3.3.A, and 3.4; AND
• The radar observer standards of competence required by 46 CFR 11.317(a)(2) and 11.321(a)(2); STCW Code Section A-II/3 and Table A-II/3, as amended 2010, meeting the National Assessment Guidelines from NVIC 13-14(Ch-4) Tasks 1.8.A and 1.8.B.