Kenya's maritime sector continues to create employment opportunities for seafarers, marine engineers, port operators, and other maritime professionals.
To ensure graduates meet international standards, the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) licenses approved Maritime Education and Training (MET) institutions to offer certified seafarer training programmes.
If you are planning a career at sea or in the maritime industry, choosing an accredited institution is essential.
This guide highlights the approved Maritime Education and Training (MET) institutions in Kenya, the courses they offer, and their locations.
Maritime Education and Training (MET) Institutions in Kenya
The Kenya Maritime Authority recognizes several institutions that provide training aligned with international maritime standards, including the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).
Below are some of the approved MET institutions in Kenya.
Maritime Training Institutions in Mombasa and Coastal Kenya
The Coast region hosts most of Kenya's maritime training institutions due to its proximity to the Indian Ocean and the Port of Mombasa.
| Institution | Selected Courses Offered | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Bandari Maritime Academy | Nautical Science, Marine Engineering, STCW Basic Safety Courses | Mikanjuni Road, Mombasa |
| Harbour View Maritime Training Institute | Survival Crafts, Advanced Fire Fighting, Security Training | Mtwapa, Mombasa–Malindi Highway |
| Indian Ocean Maritime Training Center | Personal Survival Techniques, Fire Prevention, First Aid | Watamu |
| Kenya Coast National Polytechnic | Marine Engineering, Artisan Seafarers Course, STCW Safety Courses | Majengo Kisauni Road, Mombasa |
| Technical University of Mombasa | Marine Engineering, High Voltage, Ship Security Officer, Tanker Cargo Operations | Tudor, Mombasa |
These institutions offer internationally recognized training for aspiring seafarers and marine professionals.
Maritime Training Institutions in Other Parts of Kenya
Approved maritime training is also available in other regions of the country.
| Institution | Key Courses | Location |
| Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology | Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering | Juja |
| Kisumu Maritime Center (KIMARCE) | Coxswain III, Navigation Watch, STCW Courses | Kisumu |
| Mount Kenya Maritime Academy | Basic STCW Safety Courses | Malindi |
| Pioneer International University | Security Awareness, Fire Fighting, First Aid | Nairobi |
| Premier Maritime Training Institute | STCW Basic Safety Courses | Embu |
| Railways Training Institute | Personal Survival Techniques, Fire Prevention, First Aid | Kisumu |
These institutions provide training opportunities for students from different regions while supporting Kenya's growing maritime workforce.
Common Courses Offered at MET Institutions
Although programmes vary by institution, most approved Maritime Education and Training centres offer internationally recognized safety and professional courses.
Common programmes include:
- Personal Survival Techniques.
- Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting.
- Elementary First Aid.
- Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities.
- Security Awareness Training.
- Seafarers with Designated Security Duties.
- Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch.
- Crowd Management, Crisis and Human Behaviour.
- Advanced Fire Fighting.
- Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats.
- Medical First Aid.
- Marine Engineering.
- Nautical Science.
- Ship Security Officer Training.
- Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations.
- Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Operations.
Some institutions also offer diploma, craft certificate, and bachelor's degree programmes in marine-related disciplines.
Why Choose an Approved MET Institution?
Studying at a Kenya Maritime Authority-approved institution offers several benefits:
- Training that meets international maritime standards.
- Eligibility for recognized seafarer certification.
- Better employment opportunities in local and international shipping industries.
- Access to practical maritime training.
- Improved chances of working on commercial vessels, offshore operations, and cruise ships.
Choosing an accredited institution also ensures your qualifications are recognized by maritime employers and regulatory bodies.
