New Applications

There are currently two routes for the Ice Navigator Certificate. Those who already have sufficient ice experience may be eligible to apply for a certificate through the grandfather route, and those without ice experience can enter as new entrants. Please read through the following documents which outline what is required for each route:

Grandfather Route - Ice Navigator Level 1

Grandfather Route - Ice Navigator Level 2

New Entrant Route - Ice Navigator Level 1

New Entrant Route - Ice Navigator Level 2

Got a question? Have a look at our FAQs.

If your question is not answered within the FAQs or the other documents available on the website, please contact icenavigation@nautinst.org. 

Revalidating Your Ice Navigator Certificate

The general requirement to revalidate using sea time is documented evidence of at least 30 days operating in ice conditions that posed a direct risk to safe operations or transit of the vessel within the last five years that posed a direct risk to safe operations or transit of the vessel. Revalidation requirements are the same no matter by which pathway you gained your original certificate, or whether you hold a Level 1 or 2 certificate. If you wish to revalidate using anything other than sea time please let us know.

Evidence should be submitted using the sea time letter template, which can be downloaded below. You will also just need to provide a clear scan of a valid CoC or equivalent, and an updated passport-style photograph (unless you would like to keep the one on your current certificate). If you wish to upgrade your certificate from a Level 1 then please contact icenavigation@nautinst.org for guidance.

N.B. NI Members are eligible for half-price revalidation this year. If you would like to become a Member then please submit your membership application before finalising payment for your certificate in order to claim the discount.

Downloadable Forms

• Registration Form - To be completed if you are new to us, so that we can add your personal details into our system.
• Sea Time Record Page - To be completed by all new, upgrading or revalidating applicants where possible. If company confirmation letters are available then this is not mandatory. 
• Confirmation letter (Example)
• Confirmation letter (Template) - To be completed by all new, upgrading or revalidating applicants (the parts marked in red indicate those to be changed or personalised).
• Self-Declaration Form - A statutory declaration to be countersigned and stamped by a Justice of the Peace, Solicitor or Notary Public (mandatory only if you are not able to source a company confirmation letter).
• Testimonial letter - To be completed and signed by a professional referee known to The NI, such as a certificated Ice Navigator, DPO, Member, etc. If this is not possible then please contact icenavigation@nautinst.org for advice.
• PDF Checklist Document - To be completed and included for all new grandfather applications.
• Credit Card Form - (If you prefer to pay over the phone please call our office on the main number and ask for Ice Navigation).

All applications may be submitted online by emailing clear colour scans to icenavigation@nautinst.org. New grandfather applicants must ensure they submit all the necessary documents listed in the downloadable PDF Checklist Document, together with a passport-style photograph (jpeg or similar).