What Is Merchant Navy

The opportunity to travel around the world and the lure of adventure on the high seas, besides the possibility of high remunerations attracts many youngsters to make a career in the Merchant Navy. Merchant Navy is different from the navy in the sense that it offers commercial services, as opposed to the navy, which is largely involved in the defence of a nation. 

Merchant Navy is the backbone of international trade, carrying cargo all over the world. The merchant ships employ a huge number of workers to carry and deliver goods from one country to another. Without the merchant navy, much of the import-export business would come to a grinding halt!

A career in the merchant navy is considered a glamorous job, especially by the people who have been bitten by the travel bug. It offers an opportunity to visit new and exotic places all around the globe. Merchant Navy career is not only monetarily rewarding but also satisfying and a quite challenging.

The Merchant Navy is the common term for the commercial shipping industry. Roles within the Merchant Navy vary depending on a number of factors, including size and type of vessel. The range of vessels includes passenger ferries, container ships, tankers, small tugs, and cruise ship. Some vessels have a large number of officers and ratings, whilst others have a very small number of officers and ratings. This affects the breadth of responsibilities and seniority of those on board. Furthermore, there are fewer statutory certification requirements for officers working on small vessels and on vessels working in the near coastal area

How to join Merchant Navy

Educational qualification: The minimum eligibility for courses in Nautical science and Marine engineering is 10+2 or an equivalent examination with physics, chemistry and mathematics. He should also pass a medical fitness test for sea service under standard norms and with eyesight 6/6 with no colour blindness.

Candidates wishing to enter the navigational and engineering fields of Merchant Navy need to complete a Bachelors degree in Nautical Science or Marine engineering, before they can gain admission to the field.

Selection: Candidates are selected for the B.Sc. Nautical Science degree of TS Chanakya, Mumbai; and the four-year Marine Engineering degree course at Marine Engineering Research Institute (MERI), in Calcutta and Mumbai, known as DMET, through the Joint Entrance Examination conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), which assesses the candidate’s knowledge of physics, chemistry and mathematics. The examination is followed by personal interviews/counseling, where the interviewers assess the degree of alertness, and awareness of the external environment, in the candidates and their suitability for a career in the Merchant Navy.

The entry level for a fresh Marine Engineer (ME) is at the rank of fifth engineer or junior engineer and a Nautical Science graduate is as a Deck Cadet. Promotions depend on further examinations conducted by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), the quality of experience and personal merit. On successfully completing these examinations the candidate receives the 'Certificates of Competency' needed for promotion to the respective classes. This examination is conducted by the Ministry of Surface Transport, in association with the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) Mumbai, for determining the promotion prospects for the officers.

Direct entry to Merchant Navy is also possible - students who have completed their 12th with PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) are eligible to join as Deck Cadets and a student holding a bachelor's degree in Mechanical/ Electrical/ Technology Engineering could also join the Merchant navy as a Engine Cadet/ Fifth Engineer/ Junior Engineer. Direct entry Deck Cadets are required to undergo basic pre-sea training arranged by the recruiting company itself and the direct entry Engineering cadets are preferred to do a Pre-sea course of 9 months duration in Marine Engineering conducted by the MERI.

Personal attributes: A career in the merchant navy requires people with strong inner self and tough physical form, along with a sporting, adaptive and adjustable attitude. Willing to take on responsibility, love for adventure and challenges; have the urge to strive for higher positions; be able to work as well as study for examinations in between. Candidates need to be intelligent, intuitive, willing to work as a team, flexible, patient; have a liking for solitude, willing to live apart from loves ones for long stretches of time. Those opting for a career should not be sea sick.

Engineers need to be resourceful and practical; skilled at Maths and Physics; have in-depth knowledge about the workings of the different machines. Manual dexterity is a must; one should be willing to learn new ways and work with modern technology; and able to work in the deck department as well if need arises.

Courses To Become A Deck Cadet Onboard

The Merchant Navy is a lucrative career that demands  a lot of hard work right from the day you step into a maritime academy, whether it is nautical science or marine engineering.As is with choosing any stream of education, selecting a career in Merchant Navy also requires a considerable amount of time devoted towards research so that a prospective individual is able to choose a course that best suits his needs. Some might aspire to become deck officers whereas others might be interested in engineering knowledge.With a plethora of maritime institutes offering a variety of courses, it is natural for a candidate to get confused, and in the process, make a wrong decision.There are myriad of maritime institutes all over the world and it is natural to be spoiled for choice. However, it is necessary to understand that not all of them offer the path to becoming a Deck Officer on ship in the way that it is imagined.The role of a Deck Officer in merchant navy is indispensable on board and it is important for a prospective Cadet to know what a deck officer does on board ships.A Deck Officer works in the execution of a variety of tasks- namely navigation and maneuvering of the vessel, handling of all safety equipment on board, and handing cargo, communications, and safety.All of this seemingly daunting work is designated, divided, and handled among the Trainee Cadet, 3rd Officer, 2nd Officer, Chief Officer, under the supreme supervision of the Captain of the vessel.The prerequisites to join a maritime course pertaining to the Merchant Navy are generally kept low, except the physical fitness and criteria. However, it is advised that an interested individual inquire with the respective institute offering the course in order to get the exact criterion.The following deck officer training courses outlined are those that will help an individual a great deal in determining what’s best for a chosen path to becoming one.

1. B.S. Nautical Technology

This is a 3+1 years course that is available only in India. The degree in question here is offered by the Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, and is offered in two of the institutes in India. The first 3 years of the merchant navy course is spent in the institute where a variety of subjects are taught extensively. The final year is devoted to an internship on board a vessel as a deck cadet for a minimum period of 12 months.The internship period is extremely crucial as the degree is only conferred when an individual finishes his sea time.The 2nd Mate license is obtained after finishing the mandatory sea time, upon clearing the MMD (Mercantile Marine Department) examinations. There are a total of 48 subjects covered in the study period of 3 years, a detailed list of which can obtained from the website/brochure of the institutes concerned. Following are the institutes in India that offer this merchant navy program to become a deck officer.

2. B.Sc. Nautical Science

This is a 3 years deck officer training course that is available in India. In the UK, this is a 4 years course. However, the method incorporated in the completion of this course varies between India and the UK.In India, a deck cadet spends his entire 3 years in a Maritime Institute and gets a degree after the course ends. Following that, he seeks employment and gets on board a ship as a Trainee Merchant Navy Deck Officer. In the UK, work and learning are incorporated together within the course (a part of the deck officer recruitment process), with the core modules and work based learning divided aptly within the four years of study. There are a host of Institutes offering this merchant navy program, the notable ones being:Academy Of Maritime and Education Training (AMET), CHENNAI

3. HND Nautical Science

HND stands for the Higher National Diploma. This is a 2 years course that is conducted between an Indian Institute and one in the UK in liaison with each other. The first 39-40 weeks of the course is spent studying at an Institute in India whereas the next 39-40 weeks is spent at an Institute in the UK.Deck cadets must sail for a minimum period of 15 months after the completion of the course for the the deck officer cadetship. Thereafter  a 3 months 2nd Mate Preparatory course must be undertaken at the deck cadets’ respective Institute. Upon clearing the examination conducted by the MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency), the Cadet is awarded the 2nd Mate UK license to become a certified deck officer. The notable HND courses of merchant navy are conducted by:AMET university in collaboration with South Tynside College, U.K

4. Diploma in Nautical Science

This is a 1 year course under the Indian Maritime University.Prospective deck cadets undergo a year long period of study followed by a sailing period of a minimum of 18 months. There are many merchant navy institutes offering this course. It is advisable to check the Directorate General of Shipping and the Indian Maritime University websites for institute approvals and course details.In the United States, the Merchant Marine is a civilian auxiliary of the US Navy. The system followed in the US is a very intensive one. Candidates should refer to one of the Academy websites for a methodical procedure with regard to the US Merchant Marine.Check the list of best maritime colleges of the United States for more informationThe most important aspect of choosing the right merchant navy Institute and course to become a deck officer is to ensure that the course is approved by the respective Government Authority of the country. It is also advisable to know the nation issuing the Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC) to prevent any confusion later on.In addition to the above mentioned courses, several shipping companies also conduct sponsorship programs for deck officers.Choosing the right path to becoming a Deck Officer in merchant navy can play a vital role in having a solid kick-start to the career. Apart from good memories and an unforgettable college life a proper institute, catered to your requirements, can help an individual develop the right attitude towards this line of work. It is to note that deck officer job description or deck officer salary mainly depends on the shipping company.

Physical fitness and Medical Requirements To join Merchant Navy

Having the right grades and the passion to have a life at the sea will not get you a career in the merchant navy. In order to join a merchant navy course, you must have the physical fitness and medical requirements that are necessary to have a career on ships.
The candidate must be in good mental and physical health and free from any kind of bodily defect to interfere with the efficient performance required at the sea. Read on to find out if you are physically fit to join the merchant navy.

1. Constitution

There should be no evidence of weak constitution by way of imperfect development of muscles or serious malformation. Weight below 42 kg and height below 150 cm will be rejected. The chest should be well developed with a minimum range of expansion of 5 cm.For female applicants, the height and weight may be reduced by 5 cm (2”) and 3 kg respectively. Weight to be proportionate to height and age.

2.Skeletal System

There should be no disease or impairment of functions of bones or joints, contracture or of deformity of chest or any joint, abnormal curvature of spine, deformity of feet like bow legs, knock knees, flat feet, deformity of upper limbs, malformation of the head, deformity from fractures or depression of the skull, deformity or uneven bending of the spinal column, fractures (healed) with a pin inside will be a disqualification.

3. Ear, nose and throat

There should be no impaired hearing, discharge or disease in either ear, unhealed perforation of the tympanic membrane or signs of acute or chronic suppurative otitis media or evidence of radical mastoid operation, evidence of disease of the bones and cartilage of the nose, nasal polypus or disease of nasopharynx or accessory sinuses. Loss or decay of teeth to such an extent as to interfere with efficient mastication. No disease of the throat, palate, tonsils or gums or any disease or injury affecting the normal function of either temporomandibular joint. Individuals with severe pyorrhoea are to be rejected.The unaided average threshold at least 30db in the better ear and an average of 40db in the other within the frequencies 500, 1000, 2000 and 3000 Hz and a whisper from a distance of not less than 5 meters can be heard.

4. Speech

There should be no impediment of speech (e.g. stammering)

5. Lymphatic System

There should be no enlarged glands, tubercular or due to other diseases in the neck or other parts of the body. Thyroid gland should be normal.

6. Cardiovascular System

There should be no sign of functional or valvular or other diseases of the heart and blood vessels. An electrocardiogram should be within normal limits. Systolic blood pressure should not exceed 150mm of Hg nor Diastolic above 90 mm of Hg.

7. Respiratory System

There should be no evidence of chronic or respiratory tract disease, pulmonary tuberculosis or previous history of this disease or any chronic disease of the lungs. X-ray of the chest should be normal.

The resting respiratory rate should be below 20 per minute and the holding time should not be less than 30 seconds.

8. Digestive System

There should be no evidence of any disease of the digestive system and that liver and spleen should not be palpable and there should be no abdominal tenderness on palpation.

9. Genitourinary System

There should be no palpable and enlarged kidneys. There should not be any disease of kidneys. Cases showing albuminuria, glycosuria or blood (RBC) in urine will be rejected. There should be no hernia or tendency thereto. Those who have been operated for a hernia may be declared fit provided:

(a)  One year has elapsed after the operation. Documentary proof to be produced by the candidate.

(b) General tone of abdominal muscles should be good and

(c) There has been no recurrence of a hernia or complications with the operation. There should be no hydrocele, varicocele, spermatocele or any other defect of genital organs, no fistula and/or anal fissure or evidence of haemorrhoids (Piles), rectal polyps. There should be no active latent or congenital venereal diseases, undescended intraabdominal testicle on one side unassociated with a hernia, provided the other testicle is normal and that there is no physical or psychological effect due to undescended testicle will be accepted. An undescended testicle is retained in the inguinal canal or at the extra abdominal ring will be rejected.

10. Skin

There should be no skin disease unless temporary or trivial. Scars which by their extent or position are likely to cause disability or marked disfigurement are a cause for rejection.

11. Nervous System

There should be no history or evidence of mental disease of the candidate or in his family. Candidates having a history of fits incontinence or urine or enuresis will not be accepted. Mental or nervous irritability, abnormality of gait, defective functions of cranial nerves, incoordination, motor or sensory defaults will be rejected.

12. Eye Sight

There should not be any degree of squint or any morbid condition of eyes or of the eyelids that is liable to aggravate or recur, the pressure of trachoma and iris complication sequela. Candidates must possess good binocular vision (fusion faculty and a full field of vision in both eyes). Movement of the eyeballs must be full in all directions and thepupils should react normally to light and accommodation.

Below mentioned vision standards must be met by the applicant:

Deck Department:  Vision should be 6/6 in better eye and 6/9 in the other eye;

Engine and Electrical Department: Vision should be 6/12 in each eye or 6/9 in better eye and 6/18 in the other eye;

The vision should be 6/6 (normal) in each eye separately. Defective colour vision tested by Ishihara Colour Blindness Test is a disqualification.

13. Oral Health

The acceptance or rejection on account of loss or decay of teeth depends upon the relative position of the sound teeth; a sufficient number of teeth must be present for efficient mastication.

14. Musculoskeletal System

There should be no defect of the musculoskeletal system that could interfere with the discharge of their duties (muscular power, balance, mobility, and coordination should be unimpaired). Limb prosthesis would not be acceptable.

CAREER CHART :- MERCHANT NAVY

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As of January, 2015 – A fleet of 50,000 merchant vessels are trading in international waters. This includes:

• Bulk Carriers (the largest of the chunk)
• General Cargo Ships
• Crude oil tankers / Chemical Tankers
• Container ships
• Passenger / Ro-Ro Ships
• LNG / LPG ship
• Excluding the passenger ships, each ship has a crew of 25-35(mostly) to attend to vessel’s affairs. Each crew member on board a ship has a specialized role to play in the safe and efficient operation of the ship and he/she will find himself to be working in one of the following departments -

1. Deck / Navigation Department
2. Engine Department
3. Catering Department
4. Any person willing to work on board a merchant ship has to choose a relevant pre-sea course according to his interest in the purview of eligibility for the course.In both the Deck and Engine Department, there is a further sub division – Officer and Rating. Catering department, however, has all ratings.

A brief on the job of an officer and a rating is as follows –
Officer – He / She has in depth theoretical knowledge of the subject matter of his department’s affairs with good operational, maintenance and troubleshooting skills. He also plays supervisory cum on-hands role in planning, execution of a job and its proper documentation.
Rating – He / She has strong hands-on skills and is generally very good with housekeeping and jugaad maintenance. He/she works under the supervision of an Officer and assists him in the job as required.
Roles in the merchant navy:-
One starts off his career at sea from the bottom of the food chain (as listed above). One must choose the ‘officer’ step or ‘rating’ step to climb up the ladder in either Deck or Engine Department.
Officers and Ratings both have to successfully complete their share of pre sea courses and additional certification/exams to join a merchant ship. Ratings can cross over to the officer ladder after gaining stipulated sea experience, relevant pre sea courses and competency exams. Electrical Officers need to undergo pre-sea course (5-6 months) to join a merchant ship. The galley crew (Catering Department) also requires relevant pre-sea course and competency certificate to join a merchant ship.
How to join Merchant Navy – FAQ
What is the eligibility criteria for joining a pre-sea course?
Deck or Engine, both have their respective array of pre-sea courses.
IMU CET is the umbrella exam for admission to any of the pre sea courses at DG shipping approved institutes. Minimum academic qualification requirement for IMU CET is to have Physics, Chemistry, Maths and English as subjects in the curriculum at (10+2) level or equivalent examination.
There is a minimum percentage criteria too for the above stated subjects and there is a route for Diploma holders (Mechanical / Marine / Electrical / Electronics) to gain admission in pre-sea courses.Here is a link to the list of specific requirements for Deck or engine entry The link will open a page, where on the left you will find a tab with number of options to choose from. Choose –‘Pre-Sea Maritime Courses with its Eligibility Criteria and Institutes for Entry in Merchant Navy’. A pdf file will open giving all needed details.If for some reason, the link doesn’t work- browse for. On the website under the “Maritime Training” tab in the top row, choose ” Pre-Sea Maritime Courses with its Eligibility Criteria and Institutes for Entry in Merchant Navy” link to get the pdf file.
There is age limit to enrol into one of these courses. The link above gives details on it.
Medical fitness is mandatory for entry into any of these programmes. A complete medical screening will be carried out before you admitted to any of the pre-sea courses.
How to decide which institute to join?
The link above also provides the list of approved Institutes to enrol for the various courses it tabulates. If an institute under your consideration does not appear on the list, it is best to avoid it.
Do the institutes provide any placement assistance?
Once you have successfully completed the pre sea course of your choosing, the institutes do assist for placements in shipping companies. However, don’t just take their word for it. Visit the campus, interact with existing students to find out the existing scenario. The shipping trade is affected by the condition of world economy and its effect ripples down to the bottom level i.e. Institute placements. However, good institutes are mostly able to help students to find a job.
You can also apply for placement externally, however they are hard to come by owing to the recent growth in the number of enrolments in pre sea courses.
Is there any additional fee charged for placement?
There is a nominal placement fee (which is generally part of course fee itself) charged by the institute as per AICTE rules and regulations. It only accounts for administrative work. Nobody will ask you for money for ‘setting’ or ‘procuring’ a job for you. It is illegal. Shipping industry has seen a recent growth of such touts. Beware!
Are there any additional courses, documentation?
Yes. Towards the end of your pre sea course or after its completion, and before join a ship, you will need to have STCW certifications. There are 4 basic courses to complete. Each of them lasts only a couple of days and the training institute will help you through it. A CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate) can also be applied for thereafter. A CDC becomes your identity document as a seafarer.
You are issued a training book, which you will need to complete during your time on board ship. It helps you understand and learn the ship board arrangements, equipment and safe working practices on board a ship. And of course, if there is a training, there is an exam for it. Exams which will help you climb up the food chain.
Then here is – Indian National Database Of Seafarers (INDOS) registration, Complete medical check up, vaccinations – yellow fever, cholera, hepatitis- A,B.
Don’t worry at this point for all of the above. Either your training institute or the shipping company you are placed with will help you through it.
How to decide if a shipping company is good or bad?As wonderful and exciting it may seem to be at sea. It is an equally dangerous scenario. A ship is a safest place to be at sea and the shipping company which entails a safety culture for ship upkeep and ship operation is a good company.A company that asks you for money to put you on board and pushes you to do a job that is hazardous to you, to the environment or illegal is not a good company. Never get on board on such a company’s ship, however difficult your personal situation might be because you might not come back home in one piece or worse may not even return.As ironical as it may sound, money should not be the motive, safety should be. Money will come. Trust this from a seafarer who belongs to a middle class background and has been at sea for 8 years.Having said that, here is a link to the list of companies registered with Government of IndiaSelect the link – ‘RPS Licenses Issued as on date’ from the page to get the full list companies and their contact details.If the link above does not work. Browse for – www.dgshipping.gov.in and click on ‘RPS Agencies’ in the left tab column. You will be directed to the page where you can find the link – ‘RPS Licenses Issued as on date’ .Companies with valid RPSL numbers should be pursued for employment. This is for your own safety.Note: The website – <www.dgshipping.gov.in> is the official website of Government of India and can be trusted for all the information it provides.PS : I will cover more details on what to expect and how to prepare oneself before joining your first ship in the next article. Stay put. Cheers!

Salary Of a Merchant Navy officer

Salary
Starting salaries upon qualification for junior officers are in the region of £25,000 to £28,000.
Training salaries for cadets are fall between £8,000 and £16,000 with all tuition and on-board food and accommodation included. Shore-based accommodation costs are deducted.
Progression up to the rank of captain or chief engineer can lead to salaries ranging from £36,000 to £80,000+, depending upon the type and size of ship. Salaries on foreign-going ships (i.e. at least 183 days per year out of the UK) may be tax free.
Income figures are intended as a guide only.
Work is based at sea, on board ships that operate year-round. Shifts are usually four hours 'on' watch/duty and eight hours 'off'. Although extensive travel is part of the job, opportunities to go onshore can be limited due to ship-board responsibilities and rapid turnaround times in port.
What to expect
Qualification as a Merchant Navy officer can lead to opportunities throughout the marine industry.
Onboard living conditions are usually of a high standard, with good leisure and other facilities. Due to such close living and working conditions, being able to work well within a team is important.
Weather conditions may make working uncomfortable, for instance the heat of the Persian Gulf in summer or the North Atlantic in a winter gale.
A high proportion of female officers are working in the Merchant Navy at all levels.
The long periods of time spent away at sea can have a major impact on family life, hobbies and interests. However, most companies provide a generous holiday allowance on a one-for-one basis, for example two-months' paid leave after a two-month voyage. Tour lengths vary from company to company.
Merchant Navy officers are subject to the Merchant Shipping Act. The Act sets strict limits on blood-alcohol levels and drugs are forbidden. Random testing for alcohol or drug abuse is common.
Qualifications
The Merchant Navy recruits graduates as officer trainees (either deck/navigation officer, engineering officer or eletro technical officer (ETO)), offering training and development leading to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) Certificate of Competency (CoC), including Officer of the Watch (OOW) Certificate of Competency. All training includes a residential course at a nautical college or university, interspersed by periods spent at sea.
Graduate entry onto an engineering officer programme will provide exemptions from some aspects of the training scheme (which may accelerate the route to qualification as an engineering officer) with a mechanical engineering degree.
Opportunities may be available on cruise ships and passenger ferries for graduates in catering, hospitality, business, performance or entertainment, and cruise companies should be contacted directly.
A number of shipping companies sponsor candidates on a four-year BSC (Hons) degree in merchant ship operations/nautical science or a BEng (Hons) in marine engineering applications/mechanical and marine engineering.
Alternatively, you could be sponsored for a three-and-a-half year foundation degree (FdSc) course in marine operations/nautical science/marine engineering/marine electrical systems. The foundation degree (Professional Diploma in Scotland) can lead to an honours degree. Entry into officer training may be possible with an HNC/HND in nautical science/marine engineering.
The training is fully paid for by the sponsoring company and includes a training salary. For entry requirements, a list of colleges/universities running the programmes and a list of employers offering sponsorship, see Careers at Sea.
Experience and qualifications gained within the fishing industry or the Royal Navy may be recognised or accredited towards MCA requirements. Candidates are assessed on an individual basis and should make their own application for exemptions from the academic and practical aspects of officer training.
Skills
If you have the above experience you are likely to stand out,

A List of Important Documents for Deck Cadets

For those young cadets who don’t have any immediate association with the Merchant Navy field, the time after graduation from a maritime academy can be rather confusing. With all the maritime courses and other processes required under protocol, it is justified that a fresh deck cadet would find it difficult to deal with the huge load of documentation and paperwork required after passing out.

Also, in the quest for seeking employment, deck cadets often forget to get their important documentations ready. It is therefore important that deck cadets do not ignore the necessity to keep all documentations ready, in order that they may produce them to the employer whenever required. Also, prior to seeking employment, during the visits to Mercantile Marine Department (MMD) to get a variety of work done, these documents must be kept assorted in folder at all times.

Credits: darn13/depositphotos.com

Following are the documents that are normally asked for:

1. CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate):Perhaps the most important thing for a seafarer, this booklet must be kept handy at all times. The CDC number is always required when filling out application forms for a job, to do maritime courses, for endorsement etc.

2. INDoS (Indian Database of Seafarers):Another important document that must be carried at all times. Read more about INDos number here. Every country has their own system of maritime database and fresh deck cadets must apply for their number as soon as possible.

3. STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) Certificates: The mandatory STCW certificates comprising of PST (Personal Survival Techniques), PSSR (Personal Safety and Social Responsibility), EFA (Elementary First Aid), FPFF (Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting). All these are mandatory courses which are to be carried out by sea going professionals.

4. Passport: The ultimate proof of identity for seafarers apart from CDC. Seafarers are advised to keep passport always with them when getting documentation related work done. Deck cadets must carry this everywhere.

5. Photographs: It is always necessary to carry a few extra copies of passport sized photographs while going for documentation.

6. Course Completion Certificate: The proof of having completed the tenure of study at college. A certificate of degree/diploma is required for all documentation processes.

7. Xth/XIIth mark sheet: These may be required for proof of age and to verify other important details.

As mentioned earlier, a few visits to the MMD is required to get a variety of necessary work done. Following are the procedures to be completed before setting sail for which, the above mentioned documents shall be required:

1. Yellow Fever Vaccination: This vaccination is required for individuals travelling to South American and African countries. The shot can be obtained from the MMD (Mercantile Marine Department) for a fee of INR 300/- (Will vary according to the country). For this, documents required are photocopies of front and back pages of the CDC and Passport. Prior booking for the vaccination has to be done from the office of the Port Health Officer. The vaccination is valid for 10 years. This can be obtained even without an offer letter from a company.

2. OTF/GTF/CTF: Depending on the vessel the cadet will be sailing on, the respective course needs to be done for the particular type of vessel (Oil/Gas/Chemical). Always check for DG approval status on the website (www.dgshipping.com) before choosing the course at an institute.

3. Dangerous Cargo Endorsement (DCE): The OTF/GTF/CTF certificate completed can be rendered invalid if it is not endorsed at the MMD. Depending on the ship the Cadet will be sailing on, the necessary certificate (OTF/GTF/CTF) should be endorsed for a fee of INR 1040/-. Remember to include each and every document mentioned in the DCE checklist. The medical certificate is a bit tricky so it is advised to go through the exact tests and checkups required for the medical certificate to be considered appropriate.

4. US Visa ( Or Any Other Visa): A letter of employment/offer is required to get a US Visa. Hence, this is the last formality that needs to be completed before setting sail. The company normally sets it up for the employee if required at all.

It is advisable to keep about 10 photocopies of each of the documents ready and assorted in a folder at all times when visiting an office, the MMD, to book a course, or any other related work. Are there any other important documents required by deck cadets? Let us know in the comments below.

How Much Does an Indian Seafarer Officer Earn?

Lately, we have been receiving several inquiries regarding the salary structure of Indian sea-going professionals. People often ask us how much will I make if I join the merchant navy at the start, what would be my salary after five years, and what amount will I have in my bank account ten years from now if I work on Cargo ships? We rebuff all such questions!

First of all, it is important for every aspiring merchant navy professional to understand that the shipping industry is cyclical in nature. A cyclical nature in an industry means that there are boom and bust cycles (similar to the ‘bull’ or ‘bear’ terms for equity markets). A lot of the salary structure is decided by the cycle that the fiscal year is in. You cannot expect ridiculously high pays when there is an overall slowdown.

Secondly, causes leading up to the bust as well as commodities that govern it- for example oil. When the price of oil was high, freights were high, shipowners were earning higher fees and better salaries were being paid out. It is not that the salaries right now (since we are recovering from a major slowdown) are obscenely less, they are still very good, but they are still lesser than what they were. For example, a Third Mate could get up to $3200 before 2008; now it generally hovers around the $2000-2800 bracket.

Third is the concept of supply and demand. There was a time when Junior Officers were in very high demand but now owing to the springing up many institutes, that gap has been filled, increasing the demand for the senior officers. It is important to understand that shipping, an industry that drives the economy, is dependant on the economy too! Whatever affects the world economy ends up affecting the demand and supply chain and therefore, shipping.

It is very difficult to assess how much a person would earn while working in the merchant navy, for there are several aspects involved. Apart from the rank of the maritime professional, aspects such as the type of the ship, reputation of the company, and the person’s own ability to excel in the field play an important part in deciding what salary he or she takes home.

Needless to say, one;s experience in the field counts A LOT towards finding and keeping employment, demanding a fat salary and everything else that comes with it. Shipping is such a field that the experience weighs a lot for the simple fact that a person who has covered a type/many types of ship over and over again is more conversant with shipboard equipment and has honed his skills to a point where will obviously be in demand.

But as Marine Insight is here to help its readers, and considering the fact that it is difficult to provide a number for the salary of each rank, we came up with an idea of providing our readers with a “Salary Range” for each level in a Cargo Ship.

*The above table has been created on the basis of  a salary survey done on 100 seafarers of different ranks.

In order to have a successful career at sea, it is important you make the right decisions at the start. While starting off at a maritime institute, it is only natural to be confused with regards to what stream to choose for further studies, especially for those that do not have direct access to anyone from the industry.

Degrees or diplomas in nautical science or marine engineering are two ways in which one can get a job as an officer on merchant ships.

There have been instances wherein an individual has chosen one stream only to realise that it doesn’t suit their academic inclination or the prospects that they have for their career at sea, wanting to opt out of it or into another. It is therefore extremely important that one knows in advance what field they are going to pursue and what job they would be doing later on while on the ship.

So what is the difference between nautical science and marine engineering degrees? How would you know which one to choose and what to expect from that?

Difference between Marine Engineering and Nautical Science Degrees

Nautical Science

Choosing one’s career in nautical science prepares a person to become a deck officer. Nautical science is a three years course that results in an undergraduate degree or diploma after which the student joins a ship as trainee cadet officer (commonly referred to as a deck cadet). After completing sufficient time at the sea (experience/sea time required as a deck cadet varies with the course pursued at the undergraduate level) and clearing required certificate of competency exams, the cadet becomes eligible to be employed as a navigating officer onboard a merchant ship. This first promotion comes with the designation of a Third Mate (or Junior Officer in some cases wherein the shipping company might require additional experience before becoming an OOW).

Theoretical and practical knowledge required for seamanship, chart work, collision prevention, navigation, bridge equipment & watchkeeping, cargo handling & stowage, ship stability, naval architecture (elementary), meteorology, marine signalling and ship maintenance and operation is imparted during the three years course among others, along with exposure to other areas that are necessary for managerial skills. Hands-on training is extremely important as a deck officer and thus detailed procedure and maintenance techniques of importance deck machinery is an integral part of this course.

Several modular courses that are required to join a ship are also included in the syllabus of nautical science which is mandatory as per the IMO STCW convention. At the very basic level, these courses are Personal Survival Techniques, Fire Fighting and Fire Prevention, Elementary First Aid, Personal Safety and Social Responsibility. An advanced version of these courses is to be completed prior to appearing for the certificate of competency examinations. These are short courses that range between 2-5 days.

Marine Engineering

Marine engineering is a field that deals with the engineering aspect of the maritime industry. Like any conventional engineering course, marine engineering is a four-year course which prepares an individual to become an engineer on ship.

What is the Difference between Nautical Science and Marine Engineering?

In order to have a successful career at sea, it is important you make the right decisions at the start. While starting off at a maritime institute, it is only natural to be confused with regards to what stream to choose for further studies, especially for those that do not have direct access to anyone from the industry.Degrees or diplomas in nautical science or marine engineering are two ways in which one can get a job as an officer on merchant ships.

There have been instances wherein an individual has chosen one stream only to realise that it doesn’t suit their academic inclination or the prospects that they have for their career at sea, wanting to opt out of it or into another. It is therefore extremely important that one knows in advance what field they are going to pursue and what job they would be doing later on while on the ship.

So what is the difference between nautical science and marine engineering degrees? How would you know which one to choose and what to expect from that?

Difference between Marine Engineering and Nautical Science Degrees

Nautical Science

Choosing one’s career in nautical science prepares a person to become a deck officer. Nautical science is a three years course that results in an undergraduate degree or diploma after which the student joins a ship as trainee cadet officer (commonly referred to as a deck cadet). After completing sufficient time at the sea (experience/sea time required as a deck cadet varies with the course pursued at the undergraduate level) and clearing required certificate of competency exams, the cadet becomes eligible to be employed as a navigating officer onboard a merchant ship. This first promotion comes with the designation of a Third Mate (or Junior Officer in some cases wherein the shipping company might require additional experience before becoming an OOW).

Image for representation purpose only.

Theoretical and practical knowledge required for seamanship, chart work, collision prevention, navigation, bridge equipment & watchkeeping, cargo handling & stowage, ship stability, naval architecture (elementary), meteorology, marine signalling and ship maintenance and operation is imparted during the three years course among others, along with exposure to other areas that are necessary for managerial skills. Hands-on training is extremely important as a deck officer and thus detailed procedure and maintenance techniques of importance deck machinery is an integral part of this course.

Several modular courses that are required to join a ship are also included in the syllabus of nautical science which is mandatory as per the IMO STCW convention. At the very basic level, these courses are Personal Survival Techniques, Fire Fighting and Fire Prevention, Elementary First Aid, Personal Safety and Social Responsibility. An advanced version of these courses is to be completed prior to appearing for the certificate of competency examinations. These are short courses that range between 2-5 days.

Marine Engineering

Marine engineering is a field that deals with the engineering aspect of the maritime industry. Like any conventional engineering course, marine engineering is a four-year course which prepares an individual to become an engineer on ships.Marine engineering is all about machinery on ships, boats, yachts, or any sea going vessels. There are several other technical streams that sprout out from this field. The curriculum of the course focuses on teaching the specialized knowledge of both theoretical and practical marine and mechanical engineering. Greater importance is given to impart skills and competencies that are required to operate and maintain machinery on board ships.

Credits: depositphotos.com

The subjects taught in the first and second year of the course are almost the same as those taught in conventional mechanical engineering. The main aim is to introduce engineering sciences to the students and to make them understand the applications of those sciences in various aspects of marine engineering.

The third and fourth years are totally dedicated to imparting marine technical knowledge. Both theoretical and practical aspects of marine machinery are covered with a special focus on ship’s operation and maintenance of marine machinery. Practical knowledge through laboratory and workshop training is provided throughout the four years of the program so that students get hands-on knowledge of dismantling and maintenance of machines on ships.

Upon completion of the course at the Institute, the engineer cadet has to spend the requisite time at sea to gather experience which is mandatory to appear for the engineering certificate of competency examinations. Clearing these exams results in obtaining the compulsory ‘ticket’ to be a certified engineer officer on board.

Both streams have their niche subjects and require a genuine interest from the side of the candidate to successfully complete the shore based aspect as well as to become a skilled officer in the future. Every merchant navy aspirant must do thorough research on the stream they would wish to pursue in the future to ensure that the interest in the studies and the field never wanes.

Disclaimer: The authors’ views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of Merchant Navy Zone. Data and charts, if used, in the article have been sourced from available information and have not been authenticated by any statutory authority. The author and Merchant Navy Zone do not claim it to be accurate nor accept any responsibility for the same. The views constitute only the opinions and do not constitute any guidelines or recommendation on any course of action to be followed by the reader.

A Guide to Merchant Navy Officer Ranks.

The field of merchant navy involves a certain order of hierarchy with the seafarers holding different ranks on ships. This ranking system ensures smooth coordination of on board operations and promotes proper management strategies. Being a line of work that requires a very high degree of professionalism wherein lax performance can result in drastic consequences, the hierarchy is essential to an economically viable model for shipboard operations with a shore based support framework.

The nomenclature of merchant navy ranking system is universally accepted by shipping companies and commercial vessels around the world. The ranks and responsibilities that come with it are somewhat similar across the whole industry with minor changes in names and duties assigned to specific positions varying among shipping companies and the system of nomenclature they follow. As mentioned above, essentially it is almost all the same.

In general, the ranking system on merchant vessels in mainly divided into following categories:

1. Deck Department
2. Engine Department
3. Catering Department 

The bridge of a vessel is a hub that is fitted with critical equipment for the safe navigation and watchkeeping of the merchant ship. Owing to the advanced and specific nature of the bridge equipment, a requisite skill set is imperative for an individual to control all the equipment and thereby safely navigate the ship. Seafarers under the deck department of the ship are vested with the responsibility of managing ship navigation, along with handling cargo operations and berthing instruments present on the deck of the ship.

Related Reading:

• 10 Important Jobs Deck Cadets Have To Perform On board Ships

Similarly, seafarers working in the ship’s engine room fall under the engine department. This mainly include marine engineers and ratings responsible for operation and maintenance of ship’s machinery. The engine room houses the part of the ship that fuels/propels the vessel altogether and needless to say, a specific set of skills is essential to the engine room personnel as well.

Related Reading:

• What are the Responsibilities of Chief Engineer Under SOLAS?

The third department, or the catering department, is responsible for preparation of meals and general housekeeping for crew and passengers. The number of people employed in this department (which is under the purview of the Master, as with everything else) varies among ships and obviously, a passenger ship will have far more catering staff than a cargo ship owing to the number of people that need to be serviced.

A vessel thus requires a definite system of merchant navy ranks that would enable the distribution of assignments in a professional and formal manner.

Merchant Navy Ranks 

The Captain

The Captain (or Master) of the ship is the final authority of the ship and is the highest rank that one can achieve onboard. He shoulders total responsibility and oversees all shipboard operations. The Captain is in command of a merchant ship at all times and regulates the proper daily transactions and handles the legal affairs on maritime issues. In the unlikely event that the Master is not present on board, the Chief Mate is assumed to be interim in charge for shipboard operations.

The Deck Department 

• Chief Officer/Mate
• Second Officer/Mate
• Third Officer/Mate
• Deck Cadets

Deck Rating (non-officers) 

• Bosun (head of the rating staff)
• Welder/Fitter (this rank onboard renders his services to both the deck as well as the engine department)
• Able Bodied Seaman (AB)
• Ordinary Seaman (OS)
• Trainee OS

Chief Officer / First Mate:  Chief officer occupies the second responsible position after the Captain of the vessel. He is the executive head of the deck department and executes the order of the Master at the operational level (although the rank itself is a more managerial position). He supervises the vessel’s crew and looks after the various deck operations which include, but not limited to the daily ongoings of the deck as per the work schedule as well as the cargo operations to be carried out while in port.

Related Reading:

• What are the Duties of Chief Officer?

The Chief Mate prioritises the security and safe functioning of the vessel and is responsible for the welfare of crew and passengers (if on a passenger ship) on board. Additionally, the correct working of the hull, the accommodation section, the cargo gearing, the security appliances and the fire prevention equipment is managed by the Chief Officer. Chief among all of his duties is the safe navigation of the ship for which he is an OOW for the navigational watches between 0400-0800 hrs and 1600-2000 hrs. Already burdened with a lot of work in port, the Chief Mate usually does not keep port watches as he is constantly overseeing the cargo work.

Representation Image – Photograph by Jose Jacob

Second Officer/ Mate: The 2nd Mate is an OOW responsible for the charts & publications on board and their maintenance. Also, he is the medical officer onboard responsible for the upkeep and administering of all medically related services onboard. Being an OOW, the navigational watch timings for him are 1200-1600 hrs and 0000-0400 hrs while at sea. In port, his watches are from 1200-1800 hrs and 0000-0600 hrs

Third Officer/ Mate: The 3rd Mate is in charge of all the LSA and FFA onboard and is assigned the duty to upkeep and maintain them onboard. Apart from that, he has to handle all the port documents for use by the Master along with handling the bond store onboard. Being an OOW, the navigational watch timings for him are 0800-1200 hrs and 2000-0000 hrs while at sea. In port, his watches are from 0600-1200 hrs and 1800-0000 hrs

Deck Cadet: The deck cadet is the trainee officer onboard, fresh out of the Institute. His sole job is to learn, comprehend and apply skills for the process of becoming a skilled officer in the future. Being a fresh candidate, a cadet is assigned tasks that give him a gradual understanding of the ship and her ongoings which come to use when preparing for the “Certificate of Competency” examinations to assume responsibility as an OOW in the future. Aside from the deck work that he needs to grasp, the major chunk of a cadets learning pertains to assisting an OOW in carrying out a safe navigational watch

Bosun: Bosun is the head of the ratings division on deck and carries out the scheduled work on deck in liaison with the Chief Mate

Able seaman: According to the modern nautical terminology, an able seaman (AB) possesses a merchant mariner’s document and is eligible to assist the deck department. Know more about the rank of Able Seaman here.

Ordinary seaman: The post of an ordinary seaman, denoted by OS,  serves the vessel’s deck department. An OS is usually busy with tasks such as buffing, scaling, cleaning the deck and occasionally painting the superstructure, above the main deck. An ordinary seaman can undertake activities like overhauling, splicing ropes, wiring, rigging, etc and conduct repair work on the deck. It is the Ordinary seaman’s job to ensure secure handling of cargo gears and loading or dismantling cargo as directed by the Bosun/Chief Mate. A trainee OS is like a cadet but for the ratings section. Know more about Ordinary Seaman here.  

The Engine Department 

• Chief Engineer
• Second Engineer/First Assistant Engineer
• Third Engineer/ Second Assistant Engineer
• Fourth Engineer/ Third Assistant Engineer
• Fifth Engineer/ Engine Cadet
• Electrical Officer

Engine Room Rating 

• Fitter
• Motorman
• Wiper
• Trainee Fitter / Trainee Wiper

Chief Engineer:  ChiefEngineerr is the head of the engineering department on a vessel.  The required qualification for this position is loosely referred to as the “Chief’s Ticket”. Alternatively, he can also be alternatively termed as the “The Chief” and usually draws similar pay as compared to the Captain, although the complete responsibility of a particular vessel falls solely on the Captain’s shoulder. Chief engineer gives orders for operation and maintenance of ship’s machinery system and is responsible for the engine room department.

Image Credits: Jane McIvor – Youtube

Second Engineer/ First Assistant Engineer:He is associated with the day-to-day activities in the engine room, and he is accountable to the Chief Engineer. Duties include constantly supervising the proper functioning of all engine room machinery systems and also assigns jobs to the other engine officers and crew. The Second Engineer generally keeps watch on the engine room, during the day time

Also Read: Duties of 2nd Engineer on Ship

Third engineer/ Second Assistant Engineer: This is the next position after the Second Engineer, and is assigned jobs to look after machinery ordered by the chief engineer, along with daily watch keeping. He reports to the second engineer

Fourth Engineer/ Third Assistant Engineer: This is the most junior rank in the engineering department. The Fourth Engineer is concerned about the correct working of the machinery systems assigned to him and also carry our watch keeping. He reports to the second engineer.

Also Read:  Duties of a 4th Engineer on a Ship

Fifth Engineer/ Engineering Cadet: Fifth engineer is a trainee under the Second Engineer officer, and he assists and learns while observing and carrying out activities in the engine room. He would accompany a senior officer (mostly second engineer) during the watch duty.

All the engine room ratings report to the second engineer. The engineering cadet spends his time onboard with the chief objective of learning the requisite skills to becoming a competent engineering officer in the future (by clearing the requisite “Certificate Of Competency examinations to obtain the license to be a certified engineer)

The Catering Department 

• Chief Cook
• Trainee Cook
• Steward

Chief Cook: Chief cook falls under the catering department of the ship. It is his duty to prepare meals regularly for the crew and passengers. He is also in charge of the food stores. The Chief Cook assists the Third Mate/Cadet in preparing the requisition for any/every food items to be forwarded to the company HQ to be procured onboard. The Chief Cook also inspects the equipment needed to keep the ship clean and uncontaminated in the galley area.

Image Credits: Teekay Corporation – Youtube

Trainee Cook: The trainee cook assists chief cook in preparation of meals and managing provision

Steward: The steward, as the name suggests, is assigned tasks include cooking and serving meals on time, sweeping and maintaining the living quarters of the officers, and stocktaking the stores. It is also the job of a steward to manage the grocery accounts, planning menus, and documents the cost control issues.

It is to note that a galley on passenger ships would involve several other ranks as well. Read here about galley jobs .

It is important to remember that while the shipboard hierarchy is almost the same across the industry, variations might exist depending on the nomenclature system followed in a specific company as well as the type of ship in question. Having said that, the above gives a robust idea to the reader as to the existing norms with regard to the hierarchy in every department of merchant ships.

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