Best Maritime & Shipping Training Schools in South Africa (2025)

For anyone aspiring to build a career in the maritime, shipping, or logistics industry in South Africa, attending a reputable and accredited maritime training school is one of the most important steps toward professional success. South Africa’s strategic location along key shipping routes and its major ports, including Durban, Cape Town, and Port Elizabeth, makes maritime education a critical gateway to local and international opportunities.

In 2025, maritime and shipping schools in South Africa have expanded their programs to include practical sea training, logistics management, navigation, and safety certifications. Choosing the right school ensures that students gain the necessary skills, licenses, and accreditation recognized by both local and international maritime authorities.

This guide will provide an in-depth look at the best maritime and shipping training schools in South Africa in 2025, including programs offered, accreditation, practical training opportunities, and career prospects.

Why Maritime & Shipping Training is Critical in South Africa

South Africa’s economy relies heavily on its shipping and logistics sectors. The country’s ports handle millions of tons of cargo annually, making the maritime industry a major employer and contributor to GDP. Skilled professionals are needed in areas such as:

• Navigation and ship management

• Marine engineering and mechanics

• Logistics and supply chain management

• Safety and environmental compliance

Attending a maritime training school provides practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and internationally recognized certifications. These qualifications increase employability, allow graduates to work on ships or in ports globally, and ensure compliance with international maritime safety standards.

Key reasons to pursue maritime and shipping training include:

1. High-Demand Careers – There is consistent demand for trained maritime professionals in South Africa and internationally.

2. Global Recognition – Accredited programs comply with international maritime conventions, allowing graduates to work worldwide.

3. Specialized Skills – Training covers navigation, safety, logistics, marine engineering, and port operations.

4. Practical Experience – Most schools provide hands-on sea training, simulators, and industry partnerships for real-world experience.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Maritime School

Choosing the right maritime school can define the trajectory of your career. Consider these factors:

1. Accreditation and Recognition
   Ensure the school is accredited by South Africa’s Department of Transport, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), or international maritime organizations.

2. Programs Offered
   Programs should match your career goals, whether you aim to become a deck officer, marine engineer, logistics manager, or safety officer.

3. Practical Training Opportunities
   Look for schools offering onboard training, simulations, and internships at major shipping companies or ports.

4. Facilities and Equipment
   Modern simulators, laboratories, and training vessels are essential for effective learning.

5. Career Support and Industry Partnerships
   Schools with strong industry connections can help graduates secure employment after training.

6. Tuition and Scholarships
   Compare tuition fees, bursaries, and financial support available for students pursuing maritime education.

Top 10 Maritime & Shipping Training Schools in South Africa (2025)

1. South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) Training Centre

Overview:
SAMSA provides regulatory and vocational maritime training, including safety certifications, seafarer licensing, and marine compliance courses.

Programs Offered:

• Deck Officer Training

• Marine Engineering

• Safety and Environmental Courses (STCW)

Key Features:

• Government-recognized accreditation

• Internationally recognized STCW certificates

• Practical sea training and simulations

2. Durban University of Technology – Maritime Studies Department

Overview:
DUT offers accredited maritime programs with strong industry connections in Durban, South Africa’s busiest port city.

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor of Technology in Nautical Science

• Diplomas in Marine Engineering

• Short courses in port operations and safety

Key Features:

• Accredited by CHE and SAMSA

• Hands-on practical training at Durban port

• Industry internship opportunities

3. Cape Peninsula University of Technology – Maritime Studies

Overview:
CPUT provides academic and vocational training for maritime careers, emphasizing navigation, logistics, and marine engineering.

Programs Offered:

• BTech Nautical Science

• BTech Maritime Engineering

• Short courses in maritime logistics and port management

Key Features:

• Accredited and internationally recognized programs

• Access to simulators and training vessels

• Strong research and innovation focus

4. South African Maritime Training Academy (SAMTA)

Overview:
SAMTA focuses on practical maritime training, offering deck, engineering, and safety programs for aspiring seafarers.

Programs Offered:

• Deck Cadet Program

• Marine Engineering Program

• STCW Safety Courses

Key Features:

• Full accreditation from SAMSA

• Onboard and simulation-based training

• Industry placement assistance

5. Transnet National Ports Authority Training College

Overview:
Transnet’s training college provides specialized programs in port management, logistics, and operations, preparing students for port authority careers.

Programs Offered:

• Port Operations and Management

• Marine Traffic Control

• Logistics and Supply Chain Programs

Key Features:

• Strong connection with South Africa’s port authority

• Practical exposure to real port operations

• Accredited certificates recognized nationwide

6. Stellenbosch Maritime Academy

Overview:
Stellenbosch Maritime Academy combines academic excellence with hands-on training in shipping and maritime operations.

Programs Offered:

• Diploma in Nautical Science

• Bachelor of Maritime Engineering

• Short-term courses in maritime safety

Key Features:

• Accredited by SAMSA and CHE

• State-of-the-art simulation labs

• Partnerships with local shipping companies

7. Cape Town Maritime College

Overview:
CT Maritime College specializes in vocational training for seafarers and maritime logistics professionals.

Programs Offered:

• Marine Engineering Certificates

• Deck Officer Diplomas

• STCW Safety and Survival Courses

Key Features:

• SAMSA-accredited programs

• Onboard training and practical simulations

• Industry-focused curriculum

8. Nelson Mandela University – Maritime and Logistics Faculty

Overview:
NMU offers a variety of maritime, shipping, and logistics programs with a strong emphasis on practical training and research.

Programs Offered:

• Bachelor of Maritime Studies

• Diploma in Logistics and Port Management

• Marine Engineering Programs

Key Features:

• Accredited academic and vocational programs

• Access to research vessels and labs

• Collaboration with major shipping companies

9. South African Institute of Maritime and Port Studies (SAIMPS)

Overview:
SAIMPS offers professional training in maritime operations, port management, and shipping logistics.

Programs Offered:

• Diploma in Port Management

• Certificates in Shipping Logistics

• Safety and Compliance Programs

Key Features:

• Recognized by SAMSA and local authorities

• Industry-driven curriculum

• Flexible study options for working professionals

10. Ocean Academy of Maritime Studies

Overview:
Ocean Academy provides practical, vocational maritime education with a focus on seafaring and shipping careers.

Programs Offered:

• Deck Officer Training

• Marine Engineering Diplomas

• Safety and Survival Courses

Key Features:

• Accredited by SAMSA

• Hands-on onboard training

• Industry partnerships for job placement

Comparison Table: Top 10 Maritime & Shipping Training Schools

FAQs: Maritime & Shipping Training Schools in South Africa

1. What is the best maritime school in South Africa?
   SAMSA Training Centre, DUT, and CPUT are among the most recognized and accredited schools.

2. Do maritime schools offer online programs?
   Some offer hybrid courses, but practical onboard training is usually required.

3. How long does it take to complete maritime training?
   Diploma programs: 1–2 years; Bachelor’s degrees: 3–4 years; STCW certifications: weeks to months.

4. Is accreditation important for maritime schools?
   Yes. Accreditation ensures compliance with SAMSA and international maritime standards.

5. Can I work on international ships after training in South Africa?
   Yes, if the program provides internationally recognized STCW certification.

6. Are there scholarships for maritime studies?
   Many universities and training colleges offer bursaries, especially for low-income students.

7. Do I need prior experience to enroll?
   Most programs accept school-leavers, but some advanced courses require prior training.

8. What career opportunities exist after graduation?
   Careers include deck officer, marine engineer, port manager, logistics coordinator, and safety officer.

9. What are STCW courses?
   STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) courses are mandatory safety and operational certifications for seafarers.

10. Are maritime schools expensive in South Africa?
    Tuition varies, but many schools offer medium-cost programs with financial aid and bursaries.

Conclusion

Choosing the best maritime and shipping training school in South Africa is a vital step toward a rewarding career in the maritime industry. Accredited programs ensure that students receive internationally recognized qualifications, practical skills, and industry connections that lead to high-demand jobs locally and globally.

Whether your goal is to become a deck officer, marine engineer, logistics professional, or port manager, these schools provide comprehensive training and hands-on experience to prepare you for success. Start your maritime career today by reviewing accreditation, programs, and practical training opportunities at these top South African institutions.