Shipping industry and seafarers bring prosperity to the world. However, the female count in the maritime industry is very limited. Mostly women don’t wish to join this challenging profession because of many reasons which have already discussed earlier.However the chosen few are doing a great job out at the seas with their heads held high up.

A maritime career doesn’t always mean a career at sea. It is quite natural for any seafarer to look for a shore job after they have spent a considerable period of time working at the seas. While on work it is all about being away from home, from friends and families. Sense of isolation and boredom is not uncommon in any seafarer’s life. At some point of time in their career most of the seafarers would want to look for jobs ashore. It seems seafarers are often not aware of some shore side career opportunities.

Shipping is a massive industry developed into spin offs with many sectors to be in. Seagoing experience is vital and realistic. We must know that every seafarer can settle for a job ashore, which values his or her skills, knowledge and experience. The training and experience acquired from a career in shipping can be used across industries ashore and many diverse areas. To survive and do well one has to keep on upgrading his/her skills.

Credits: Corepics/depositphotos.com

There are very many sectors where seafarers can join and make a good fortune. Some of them are listed below:

1.  Maritime Lecturer or Instructor: Maritime training institutions are growing in a good number. Experienced Seafarers willing to teach can join such institutions and can dedicate themselves to the development and fine tuning of quality maritime training programs that will ensure that quality graduates are provided to the maritime industry. It is very important to train the budding ship officers and help them think critically and solve problem as would be expected of them when onboard. Seafarers can use their own experience and previous research to impart knowledge to the students, educate and prepare aspiring seafarers for life at sea so that they can perform their duties onboard diligently and efficiently. A number of maritime academies/universities run training vessels where extra-ordinarily good faculties are required to provide the necessary maritime background knowledge. An attractive solution would seem to be to engage deck officers or marine engineers who have abandoned sailing with sufficient sea time. Seafarers thus having worked onboard ships can contribute to the training and development of the next generation of seafarers and assist them in their pursuit of fulfilling their dreams.

2. Maritime Surveyor: Any deck officer with a certificate of competency as a Master on a foreign going vessel and a ship’s engineer a certificate of competency as a chief engineer are eligible to become a class surveyor for ships to check sea worthiness. A class surveyor is responsible for conducting surveys and inspections on ships structure and marine equipment according to national and international rules to determine overall condition and ensure quality and safety of ships. A well experienced seafarer has good observational skills and technical knowledge and is already aware of the ins and outs of the ship. It is thus quite easy for him/her to find out the loopholes and prepare the ship well for a safe voyage. Any seafarer with sufficient sea experience can undergo distant learning courses in marine surveying from renowned universities which can help in increasing professional skills and in a better understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a marine surveyor.

Credits: ISWAN Videos/YouTube

3. Maritime Author: Another option for seafarers who have abandoned sailing after spending a long time at sea is to become an author. A seafarer can bring to the book that she has written her long experience of sailing and the knowledge she has gained over the years which should prove extremely useful to Marine officers. A well experienced seafarer has overcome all the hurdles of sea life and knows exactly what is expected of young officers to clear their competency exams. Keeping this in mind maritime books can be written primarily intended for not only helping students to prepare for their exams but as well as to gain a clear idea regarding the subject. It can present to mariners in a crisp as well as lucid manner the necessary knowledge of the subject. Help can be taken from existing authors who can have some great insights and suggestions.

4. Entrepreneur: Having made enough savings one can think of starting her own small business ashore and be your own boss. Entrepreneurship demands passion, persistence and tenacity which is nothing new to seafarers. Women seafarers can consider launching a home based bakery or catering business or anything that they are passionate about. Food is always in demand and there will always be a market for food based businesses. Smaller home gatherings can be handled with a business partner. Investing in a franchise is also a great way to become a business owner without having to come up with a concept or marketing strategy. There are many other ways whereby a mariner can invest and start her own business. Some can even think of starting a boutique.

Paromita Mukherjee in Marine Careers6 months ago

8 Career Options For Women Seafarers After Sailing At Sea

Shipping industry and seafarers bring prosperity to the world. However, the female count in the maritime industry is very limited. Mostly women don’t wish to join this challenging profession because of many reasons which have already discussed earlier.However the chosen few are doing a great job out at the seas with their heads held high up.

A maritime career doesn’t always mean a career at sea. It is quite natural for any seafarer to look for a shore job after they have spent a considerable period of time working at the seas. While on work it is all about being away from home, from friends and families. Sense of isolation and boredom is not uncommon in any seafarer’s life. At some point of time in their career most of the seafarers would want to look for jobs ashore. It seems seafarers are often not aware of some shore side career opportunities.

Shipping is a massive industry developed into spin offs with many sectors to be in. Seagoing experience is vital and realistic. We must know that every seafarer can settle for a job ashore, which values his or her skills, knowledge and experience. The training and experience acquired from a career in shipping can be used across industries ashore and many diverse areas. To survive and do well one has to keep on upgrading his/her skills.

Credits: Corepics/depositphotos.com

There are very many sectors where seafarers can join and make a good fortune. Some of them are listed below:

1.  Maritime Lecturer or Instructor: Maritime training institutions are growing in a good number. Experienced Seafarers willing to teach can join such institutions and can dedicate themselves to the development and fine tuning of quality maritime training programs that will ensure that quality graduates are provided to the maritime industry. It is very important to train the budding ship officers and help them think critically and solve problem as would be expected of them when onboard. Seafarers can use their own experience and previous research to impart knowledge to the students, educate and prepare aspiring seafarers for life at sea so that they can perform their duties onboard diligently and efficiently. A number of maritime academies/universities run training vessels where extra-ordinarily good faculties are required to provide the necessary maritime background knowledge. An attractive solution would seem to be to engage deck officers or marine engineers who have abandoned sailing with sufficient sea time. Seafarers thus having worked onboard ships can contribute to the training and development of the next generation of seafarers and assist them in their pursuit of fulfilling their dreams.

2. Maritime Surveyor: Any deck officer with a certificate of competency as a Master on a foreign going vessel and a ship’s engineer a certificate of competency as a chief engineer are eligible to become a class surveyor for ships to check sea worthiness. A class surveyor is responsible for conducting surveys and inspections on ships structure and marine equipment according to national and international rules to determine overall condition and ensure quality and safety of ships. A well experienced seafarer has good observational skills and technical knowledge and is already aware of the ins and outs of the ship. It is thus quite easy for him/her to find out the loopholes and prepare the ship well for a safe voyage. Any seafarer with sufficient sea experience can undergo distant learning courses in marine surveying from renowned universities which can help in increasing professional skills and in a better understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a marine surveyor.

Credits: ISWAN Videos/YouTube

3. Maritime Author: Another option for seafarers who have abandoned sailing after spending a long time at sea is to become an author. A seafarer can bring to the book that she has written her long experience of sailing and the knowledge she has gained over the years which should prove extremely useful to Marine officers. A well experienced seafarer has overcome all the hurdles of sea life and knows exactly what is expected of young officers to clear their competency exams. Keeping this in mind maritime books can be written primarily intended for not only helping students to prepare for their exams but as well as to gain a clear idea regarding the subject. It can present to mariners in a crisp as well as lucid manner the necessary knowledge of the subject. Help can be taken from existing authors who can have some great insights and suggestions.

4. Entrepreneur: Having made enough savings one can think of starting her own small business ashore and be your own boss. Entrepreneurship demands passion, persistence and tenacity which is nothing new to seafarers. Women seafarers can consider launching a home based bakery or catering business or anything that they are passionate about. Food is always in demand and there will always be a market for food based businesses. Smaller home gatherings can be handled with a business partner. Investing in a franchise is also a great way to become a business owner without having to come up with a concept or marketing strategy. There are many other ways whereby a mariner can invest and start her own business. Some can even think of starting a boutique.

Image Credits: adports.ae

5. Ship Broking and Chartering: Ship broking is not a complex profession for those who have worked in the shipping industry. As a profession it has continued to grow in presence. A ship broker is the one who acts as a negotiator between ship owners and charterers. Ship broker’s role can be classified as finding ships for cargoes and cargo for ships. This function necessarily requires an in-depth knowledge of ship and cargoes, methods of loading and discharging of various cargoes, weather patterns etc. New entrants can take up educational courses offered by the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers to get a deeper insight of the profession. Organisations such as Clarksonsalso conducts trainee broker programme which makes one a better professional. Such program provides a fantastic insight into the culture and environment of a leading ship broking firm and helps you make a difference in the global level. They also provide internships in leading broker house.

6. Ship Operation Management: Working in the ship management is one of the most interesting and challenging sectors of shipping. As the name suggests ship management involves the process of managing the ship for an agreed period of time. Ship management has different areas to be looked after- commercial, operations, technical, crewing, finance, administration, quality and safety. A well experienced navigating officer can later join shipping companies ashore as fleet manager, safety and quality manager, training officer, technical manager and so on. Navigating officers can enrol themselves into various management courses, both distant and regular which can help them analyse the core business requirements. These courses equip them with the skills, knowledge and tools that they need to formulate business strategies and manage their business successfully. Shipping companies prefer to absorb officers who have already worked onboard their vessels as they already hold a developed relationship with them. It is easier to recruit officers who already have a fair idea about the company.

7. Maritime Regulatory Authorities:  Government jobs are starting to get attractive again. Marine officers can also enjoy the benefits of government job by working under the Ministry of Shipping. Seafarers with a certificate of competency as a Master of a foreign going ship are also eligible to join the esteemed maritime regulatory authorities like the Director General of Shipping as principal officer or Nautical surveyors who are responsible for conducting examinations for masters and mates. They can also join in higher posts like the deputy director general, assistant director or Nautical Advisor.

Additional qualifications such as having a masters degree in Maritime Affairs or Maritime Policy are highly desirable. Nature of work involves implementing the ISPS code, working in connection with the Port State Control, regulate employment to seamen and other duties as required. Engineers with a first class certificate of competency or extra first class engineers certificate are also eligible for the same. The method of recruitment is directly through UPSC (Each country has its own type of examination). One who is interested has to follow the employment news for circulars and further information.

Credits: imo.org

8. Ports And Harbour Management And Pilotage: Ports are busy places and offer exciting job opportunities in many different areas. Ports have to move with the times in response to global shifts in maritime trade if they are to remain competitive. Hence they require efficient and skilful professionals to develop strategic business plans. Some of the jobs available in port operations involve technical work, administration, management, vessel traffic services and pilotage. Seafarers who have served in a senior capacity at sea have the required skill, knowledge and understanding and are therefore ideal for the above posts. Additionally a degree in port management can serve as an excellent opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge of the rules and regulations that go into operating ports globally and the economic and commercial aspects of port operations.

Thus this brings us to a conclusion that there is plethora of jobs available ashore. Please do note that this is not an exhaustive list. You can do any kind of job you are passionate about. Seafarers have a rounded view of how the international shipping industry fits together. With dedication, knowledge and the right skills seafarers are apt for shore based jobs. After gaining sufficient sea experience one can make a transition from sea to shore and settle ashore and stay connected to their near and dear ones.

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 Marine Insight 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 List of Unique and Interesting Marine Careers

Fancy a career in the sea? Are you one of those who find a job that allows them to stay close to waters fascinating? Do you wish to be able to make your love for thrill of ocean into a profession? Well, then the answers for you are simpler and the good news is you don’t have to be a mariner discovering new lands or a pirate to be able to enjoy marine careers. The options in maritime careers today are immense. As long as you have a passion for this line of work, you can expect to find something to your liking while keeping your passion alive for sure.

A Maritime degree today comes with options varying a lot with a choice ranging from being a biologist to unearthing secrets of ocean beds. The diversity of maritime courses is so huge that there is something for everyone with any kind of interests.

Credits: JamaL1977a/depositphotos.com

1.   Ocean engineering

To start with, you can choose a marine degree in ocean engineering which allows you to explore everything from the depth of the oceans to its vast expanse all on basis of your technical skills. Marine careers in ocean engineering allow a lot of scope for engineers to make a combined use of their passion for water and technical knowledge.

2.  Marine Biology

But if you are more into the biology side, marine biology is one of the maritime careers suited to you the most. Study the life inside the water, from little algae to the fascinating reefs to the huge whales and sharks.

Photograph by Jenny/wikipedia.org

The options in this particular maritime degree are immense because the ocean is the limit and your passion is your desiring force.

3.   Marine Mammal Trainer

If you like the lighter sides of things and have a love for animals (especially marine) try a career as a marine mammal trainer. You can find job opportunities in places like marine life museums or marine mammal care centers etc. where you can get to look after these fascinating creatures for a living.

4.   Marine Archeology

Marine archeology is another intriguing marine degree offering a chance to unravel the secrets lying at the ocean beds. The skills needed for such a job include diving, archeological skills and basically a passion to ‘get to the bottom’ of things. You can pursue this degree at undergraduate, post graduate or doctoral level, depending upon the interest you have in this area.

5.   Marine Researcher

But if you are interested in the entire marine world, being a part of a marine researchers’ team would allow you to explore all aspects of marine life. You can enjoy all there is to enjoy in the very essence of a career at the sea while exploring and discovering new secrets.

6.   Marine Environment Educator/ Oceanography

On the other hand, as a marine environmental educator, you can make some real difference to the marine world and make efforts towards sustaining the life in it in a more holistic way. As a marine environmental educator, you can do a job ranging from training people in marine environmental safety to spreading knowledge about it. Or you can choose to be an oceanographer and study a wide range of subjects related to marine life. A Maritime degree in oceanography makes you eligible to study a lot of aspects of marine life right from marine ecology to marine flora and fauna.

7.   Aquatic Veterinarian

For those who share a love for animals and water both, one of the maritime courses suitable for you is for an aquatic veterinarian. You can look after all sorts of marine animals from large whales to super friendly dolphins to fascinating walruses.

8.   Scuba Diving Instructor and Underwater Filmmaker

But for those who enjoy the thrill of life under water, maritime courses in underwater film making or scuba diving would be the most suitable choices. While the former allows you to put your artistic side to use while exploring the underwater life and brining it out to the world, the latter is a career choice where every day at work would be filled with an adventure.

Credits: US Navy/wikipedia.org

Swimming with the fish or exploring the unseen marine plants, the life as a scuba diver is quite thrilling. The choice here remains to work as an individual like a free lance marine life filmmaker or to get into corporate side of things.

9.   Marine Scientist

Another on the list of maritime careers is that of a marine scientist. With a degree in marine science, you can find a career as a scientist exploring various parts of marine life, environmental facets of ocean beds, and chemical composition of waer. The specialization in the course decides your area of research but the choices to choose from are immense.

10.   Marine Environment Economist

If saving the marine environment is what you like the most, then of all the marine careers, one as marine environment economist is what you should pursue as a career option. With a degree in this course, you can work with the government or with private companies, making efforts towards saving the marine life and resource management for their maximum sustenance.

Life at sea is fascinating in whatever way you choose to look at it. So no matter which of all the marine careers available you choose to go for, as long as you have a liking for the waters, you will find something you love.

You may also like to read – Shipping Jobs: A Field of Great Opportunities

Appearing For Merchant Navy Competency Examination Abroad – UK

The following article has been written considering Indian Seafarers in mind. Though the information included in this article may not be relevant or accurate for seafarers from all countries or states, the procedure to apply and appear for merchant navy competency examinations from the mentioned nations would remain the same with few changes.

Varied are the perceptions of candidates appearing for Competency Exams in Merchant Navy regarding the Indian Examination system conducted by Mercantile Marine Departments established at various ports across the country and governed by the central govt. through Directorate General of Shipping .

This examination process which is perched at a standard equivalent to or higher than the mandatory requirements according to Standards For Training Certification and Watchkeeping 2010 (STCW), is the prime reason Indian officers have been successful in establishing an enviable reputation in the Maritime industry and keeping the ongoing trend alive for their successors.

© filigor – Fotolia.com

However many Indian or Indian origin seafarers have in past and even now choose to appear for their preparatory courses and subsequent competency exams from countries outside India for e.g. United Kingdom , Singapore , Australia and New Zealand. Often the reasons cited for this by the Indian seafarers are mainly as under:

• Application and other formalities are comparatively speedy and overall process is convenient due to prevalent use of technology
• Time bound services being offered by various administrations across the world
• Tourism too is states as one of the reasons as the preparatory courses and exams includes stay of few months or more. Thus solving the dual purpose
• Countries such as UK , Australia, Singapore have a permit to work system which enables seafarers to generate extra earnings by using their spare time. Often financial independence thus provided is a motivating factor. Sometimes this incomes exceeds the expenses occurred during the stay and on some occasions seafarers have saved handsome amounts while appearing for exams as well
• Having family roots abroad too is a reason seafarers choose to appear for examinations there. That way they do get some time to spend with distant relatives which doesn’t occur frequently in merchant navy owing to the nature of job .

In this article we shall discuss in detail the examination process and its benefits for seafarers appearing for Competency Exams in various maritime nations such as United Kingdom, Australia , Singapore, New Zealand and others.

Internet on ship. © filigor – Fotolia.com

Shipping being a global industry, attracts movement of officers and crew members to different countries for examinations depending on above mentioned factors. One of the favourite country to appear for maritime examinations and courses is the United Kingdom.

Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is the authority for conducting examinations and certification on behalf of the administration. It comes under the Department for Transport. Eligibility for examinations is based on sea time requirements in various ranks onboard with respect to the Competency certificate applied for.

Various preparatory courses are conducted by some very famous universities of UK for e.g. Glasgow College, University of Plymouth . The major institutes imparting maritime training in UK are in towns like Liverpool, Southampton, Orkney and Shetland. These courses include both theoretical as well as practical training.

A detailed list or useful links for the same can be found on the Merchant Navy Training Board website.  There are some relaxations in attendance required by these institutes. The Merchant Navy Training Board (MNTB) approved training programmes are prerequisite and an attendance certificate for such programmes is required to obtain a Certificate of Competency by MCA . However the training imparted by them places one at par with any other maritime training around the globe. The MCA website provides details for criteria to be fulfilled regarding eligibility, courses, certifications and exemptions.

UK being a developed country the expenses are on higher side but nevertheless part time jobs opportunities or limited weekly and monthly work hour permits are available to meet the expenses during the period of stay. The work permits of around 16 hrs per week are being provided along with the study visa in the passport. Mode of payment is mostly by electronic means thereby easing the process of application. However stringent measures have been adopted by the examination authority to avoid any kind of malpractices.

As per the new regulations for examinations and study visa, the maximum period of stay is reduced to 1 year without further extensions, after which, the candidate has to return to his home country and then again apply for visa. The second period for visa has been limited to six months. The mode of examination being written as well as orals.

If a mariner successfully completes the foundation degree from any of MNTB/MCA approved institute he qualifies for various exemptions from written examinations conducted by Scottish Qualification Authority (SQA). In some cases the attendance certification for foundation degree reduces the sea time requirements as well.

The Scottish Qualification Authority (SQA)  Examination for Chief Mate and Master is given recognition as higher national diploma.  After achieving a Chief Mate’s certificate followed by further sea service requirements, a candidate can appear for Master’s Oral Examination conducted by MCA . Regarding the STCW  modular courses, certificates and endorsements issued by any IMO ‘white list’* country or EU member state, Canada, New Zealand and South Africa is acceptable. More detailed information can be obtained from Seafarer Training and Certification (MCA). Indian Seafarers who have a UK COC have to obtain an Equivalent Certificate or COE to work on ships registered in India.

While appearing for competency examinations in UK, mariners find it convenient but expensive country to stay. However, the latest visa regulations have been less favourable for candidates who fail to complete their training and exams within the stipulated period. The weather in summers is favourable but temperatures in winter falls down to Zero and even low further crossing to the negative side. Despite a few cons, the picturesque and lush green countryside and amicable atmosphere of UK tends to attract thousands on mariners every year.

*An IMO White List country refers to a list of contracting states which have successfully implemented and are following the STCW code and its requirements. The assessment for the same being done by IMO.

Disclaimer: While every care has been taken in the compilation of this information and every attempt made to present up-to-date and accurate information, we cannot guarantee that inaccuracies will not occur. Merchant Navy Zone will not be held responsible  any claim, loss, damage or inconvenience caused as a result of any information within these pages or any information accessed through this site.

What is Marine Archaeology?

Archaeology is that branch of study which deals with excavation of important things and items that have happened centuries ago. Marine archaeology, as the name suggests, deals with excavation of things in the deepest parts of the oceans and seas.

Marine archaeology is a very vast subject as it involves dealing with the wider aspects of the oceans and seas. Also since preservation of the things that lie deep in the ocean bed is also equally important, it becomes relevant to note that the responsibility of a marine archaeologist becomes even tougher.

An archaeology program like marine archaeology is not simple by any means. Over the years there have been several restoration and excavation works done by marine archaeologists that have helped the world to see various amazing exhibitions that were once buried under the oceans and seas.

In addition to excavating ships and other things from the ocean bed, marine archaeology also offers as an archaeology program, the excavation of human debris and civilisations that have been deluged underwater for many scores of years.

Such a wide variety of options in an archaeology program is the main reason why marine archaeology is a unique subject. Similar to the land-based archaeology program, marine archaeology also involves going to different exotic locations to dig up amazing structures and creations. The only difference between the two being that marine archaeology will involve underwater exotic locations which will give the archaeologist a satisfaction of a completely different order.

But while an archaeology program offers so much incentive, it also needs to be understood that there are various and many challenges to the profession. When it comes to marine archaeology, it has to be understood that there are several factors that could prevent a marine archaeologist from carrying out his archaeology program under the water.

Natural occurrences like underwater earthquakes or in certain cases, marine creatures like sharks could prove to be damaging to the process of marine archaeology. Therefore a marine archaeologist has to be very careful while trying to excavate a precious material submerged underwater. Because if a marine archaeologist is not careful, then it could lead to a loss that would be a loss not just to the present generation but also to the future generation as well.

Ships that have been submerged underwater for decades and centuries require expert handling that only a marine archaeologist can provide. Because most of such naval vessels have been constructed with wood, it is important that a marine archaeologist takes undue care and protection to excavate and restore the naval vessel without causing any further damage to it.

Ships like the Titanic, Mary Rose and Vasa – a war vessel from Sweden are some of the very important relics that have been restored from the depths of the ocean to be placed for the viewing of our eyes in modern times. These important discoveries are example as to how relevant an archaeology program like marine archaeology is in today’s times.

Each and every scope of the ocean bed is covered by marine archaeology when it comes to excavation and finding out about important data and details. This being the case and usage of marine transportation being one of the oldest forms of transport for passengers as well as for cargo, it becomes relevant to understand the relevance of marine archaeology. As an archaeology program, marine archaeology is not just interesting and alluring but is also a profession of utmost significance and relevance.

12 Institutes Providing Certification Course in Maritime Catering in India

Lately we have been publishing several articles on marine courses which require years of extensive studies and training.

To ensure that an appropriate equilibrium is established, we decided to mention a list of colleges in India providing catering course for getting into maritime industry.

A career in catering on ships is an evergreen field. Irrespective of the type of ship or employer, a ship needs a cook and a catering department to get its crew going. Good food and hospitality are what keep a crew happy. If you are one of those with unique culinary skills, then this career is definitely rewarding.

Find out 12 marine institutes which provide six months maritime catering course in India

1. Maritime Education Training & Research Institute, Kolkata

2. Trident College of Marine Technology, Kolkata

3. Euro Tech Maritime Academy, Kochi

4. Cosmopolitan Technology of Maritime College, Chennai

5. B.P. Marine Academy, Mumbai

6. Columbus Maritime Training Academy, Mumbai

7. MMTI Education Trust

8. Training Ship Rahaman, NhavaSheva

9. Marine Medical Clinic, Mumbai

10.Sea Scan Maritime Foundation, Goa

11.NUSI Maritime Academy, Goa

12.   Francon’s Marine Academy, Goa ( Doesn’t have a website)

Tel. No. : 91832863247

Francon’s Marine Academy

House No.590-A, Bandfall,

ChinchinimSalcete ,

Goa-403715

A Guide To MBA In Shipping.

Merchant Navy is a specialized field, which provides an experience unlike that offered by any other profession. However, the constant travelling, almost zero social life, and hostile working environment can take a toll on people working on ships. These reasons have also been the main driving force behind people leaving sailing for a shore job.

In case you are one of those, who want to shift to a shore job or want to go for further education, a degree in Masters in Business Administration (MBA) would be the best option for a promising career on shore.

Why MBA in Shipping?

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) has been a hot choice for furthering one’s career aspirations for a very long time. Many b-schools have sprung up, offering the course with a wide range of electives to specialise in.

For seafarers looking to switch careers, advance their knowledge in shipping, or change functions within the shipping industry, MBA has long been a conduit to facilitate the aforementioned transitions. Amid a plethora of shipping management course offerings, it is important to navigate through those that are relevant to one’s need and career goals to choose an MBA (or a specialised Masters, as the case may be) while keeping in mind the course content, return on investment (ROI) and prospective employment.

With regards to prospective employment (a legitimate concern considering the significant investment of time and money), the MBA in shipping courses spans different countries with different work visa regulations, a critical aspect when researching the big step in business education. Without further ado, let us dive straight into the topic.

What kind of MBA can a Maritime Professional do?

A maritime professional can opt for any one of the following MBA programs. Note that these are not the only options. However, these would offer the best future prospects considering the kind of work experience maritime professionals already have.

1. MBA in logistics and supply chain
2. Port management
3. MBA in shipping management
4. MBA in shipping and logistics
5. MSc in maritime administration and logistics
6. MSc in international trade
7. MSc in port management etc.

A person, who wants to explore options beyond the shipping industry, can choose any one of the conventional subjects of MBA such as Marketing, Finance, Human resource etc.

However, an MBA degree in above-mentioned programs would benefit a mariner who already has the right kind of experience and knowledge of the subjects taught in these courses.

What are the MBA selection criteria for Maritime Professionals?

All reputed colleges providing an MBA degree in Shipping look for two main things – decent work experience and the GMAT score (or equivalent). They also take into account a good work profile and consistent grades throughout high school and graduate program.

Also, note that some colleges providing MBA in shipping can consider a candidate without a GMAT score if the person has extensive sailing experience (more than 7-8 years) along with an exceptional past record and work profile. However, this criterion is decided solely by the concerned business school.

Apart from GMAT, one would also require clearing English languages proficiency tests such as TOEFL and IELTS. (This is only if the person is applying to an international business school and when English is not his or her first language.)

How can a degree in MBA help a maritime professional?

When a mariner wants to shift to a shore job or want to go for higher education, there are a couple of options available. However, to get a decent position in a reputable shipping company, one requires two main things –

1. Extensive job experience (More than two years)
2. A degree in MBA (or equivalent higher degree)

If you already have a good amount of experience sailing as a captain or a chief engineer of a ship, then you are probably the right person for a managerial position in a shipping company on shore. However, the experience of a Chief engineer or a Captain backed by an MBA degree would surely make you more “preferable” for the right position.

But this is about maritime professionals who already have extensive experience at sea. What about those officers who want to quit sailing early in life for an office job on shore? It is often seen that shipping companies are reluctant to recruit officers with less managerial level work experience at the sea. For such officers, an MBA degree would open many doors of opportunities not only in the shipping field but also in other sectors.

What’s the first step towards MBA?

Getting a degree in MBA from a reputed university is no piece of cake. Competition is fierce and the process is lengthy and stressing. One needs to have a good amount of dedication along with clear goals in order to attain an MBA degree in shipping.

The first step towards an MBA degree would be to clear a standardized management test (entrance exam), which is necessary to apply for an MBA degree in a reputed college.

Each country has its own standardized test for MBA colleges. For e.g. India has the Common Admission Test (CAT) for MBA.

However, anyone who is looking forward to an MBA degree from an international college, he or she will have to get a decent score in GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test), a computer adaptive test which is accepted by almost all business colleges around the world.

Some private business schools have their own MBA entrance exams and selection procedures. However, GMAT is accepted by all the top reputed management colleges around the world.

A Generalised List of Admission Requirements for an MBA:

1. Undergraduate degree in any discipline
2. GMAT or GRE score
3. Letter(s) of recommendation (usually two or three)
4. Filled application form
5. Essays/Statement of purpose
6. Work experience (not always required but always preferred)

Note that the above vary among countries and course choices. Master’s degrees in the US require an individual to take the GMAT or GRE while those in Europe don’t have that requirement. For the MBA, as mentioned earlier, most of the recognised universities require the GMAT (the GRE has become an alternative even for the MBA with most schools accepting GRE scores now). For the prestigious IIMs (in India), the CAT examinations determine the prospect of entry into one of them.

Main Exams For MBA 

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a computer adaptive test scored out of 700 intended to assess certain analytical, writing, quantitative, verbal, and reading skills in written English for use in admission to a graduate management program, such as an MBA. Follow the link to know about the exam; there are ample resources already available online to know all there is to the exam.

The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE)is a standardized test that is an admissions requirement for most Graduate Schools in the United States. The GRE aims to measure verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills that have been acquired over a long period of learning. The content of the GRE consists of certain specific algebra, geometry, arithmetic, and vocabulary. The GRE General Test is offered as a computer-based exam administered at Prometric testing centres.

Future Prospects: Is MBA in Shipping For You?

Almost all prestigious MBA programs conduct their admissions process with the basic tenet of diversity in mind, meaning that applications are welcome from candidates across various industries and functions. It is not unheard of to have military veterans, investment bankers, private equity professionals, engineers, management consultants, writers, athletes and seafarers rolled into one MBA cohort. It is this aspect of diversity that enables an enriching class that has input through real-life experiences from different backgrounds, amalgamating into a well-rounded output with different perspectives to decision making.

The MBA or Masters can open up opportunities in chartering, shipbroking, ship operations and business development in a maritime-focused company (among others). It can also help a candidate to switch careers into financial services, supply chain, energy, trading, consulting etc. In a two year MBA curriculum, for example, the first year is spent focusing on the core business subjects, enabling the candidate to develop a working knowledge of accounting, managerial economics, organisational behaviour etc. – knowledge that is applicable to any industry. The second year is spent specialising in their choice of the industry through electives.

Where to Do MBA in Shipping?

The information will now be continued country wise, listing the top couple of/few courses pertaining to the maritime industry (along with other details) or the common course choices of seafarers who have already made their moves, depending on the country.

The list of courses is vast and with this initial introduction into the MBA/Masters, a prospective candidate can continue to do their own research to see which course fits their career aspirations best.

United States of America

The US of A is awash with the best names in management education. From the world’s best universities in business education such as Harvard, Stanford, Wharton to the best-specialised programs in supply chain management at Sloan (MIT), Smeal (PSU), Broad (MSU), WP Carey (ASU) – the US has plenty of choices to fulfil one’s career goals, whether they are to switch industry and/or functions or to further one’s interest in an overall general management education. However, the US is not the best option if one is focused on getting a degree specific to the maritime field. There are a handful of colleges that offer a Masters degree related to the maritime sector and they primarily cater to the domestic candidate and aren’t really popular among seafarers in the past. Note that a general management MBA is not focused on the maritime field but can open up a wide array of options in a variety of industries and functions, including the maritime field.

7 Most Common Superstitions of Seafarers

Superstitions and beliefs are entwined into the very fabric of human existence. Be it any sphere of life, there is a small element of odd and uncanny belief that dictates it. Even in an age where information flows across space (as well as outer space) without barriers, the aspect of adherence to an age-old belief goes on to show that we are tuned to be attracted to that which is mysterious.In a field such as the merchant navy, which is perhaps almost as old as mankind itself, it is only natural that there exists myriad superstitions that are promulgated to this day. Come to think of it, being away from civilization and an inclusive everyday society gives rise to a support system that’ll cater to the most mundane of thoughts. It is a debatable topic as to the whether the supernatural exists or not. Most will agree to the fact that there is a constant presence of a higher power, cosmic or whatever one may choose to call it. But to what extent are those ideas believable?

Let us look at some of the common seafaring superstitions that are prevalent:

1. Having a woman onboard is bad luck:Despite the age-old association of sailors with women, this superstition has been central to seafaring for a very long time. Legend has it that having a woman onboard meant distractions and aroused jealousy among sailors. This would deviate them from their work and hence result in getting the sea angry! (The term ‘son of a gun’ arose from here. In the presence of a woman, when immense desire struck before reaching port, a sailor consummated that affair on the gun deck). Even in popular culture, we have read and heard of mermaids distracting vulnerable sailors into the dark corners of the ocean with their beauty and eventually devouring them. On the contrary though, naked women are said to be a calming element for the sea; which is why old ships have naked women for figureheads.

It is indeed an irony though then that a ship is referred to as ‘she’. This superstition clearly wouldn’t make sense today, for there a lot of women all across the community who are excellent seafarers and have navigated their respective ships with finesse and without bringing bad luck to the ship or the crew!

2. Ceremonial ship launching and naming: Ship naming is a ceremony that happens after a vessel has been built, passed the necessary sea trials and is ready to set sail. The tradition of christening a ship for good luck and safe voyages goes back a long time. Historical evidence shows Babylonians celebrating the launch of a ship as early as 3^rdmillennium BC. They are said to have been in the practice of sacrificing an ox for this purpose! The Egyptians, Greeks and the Romans called upon their respective Gods to protect their ships and crew. The Greeks believed in Poseidon and the Romans invoked the blessings of Neptune. In the 8^th and 11^thcentury AD, the Vikings continued the tradition by spilling blood as an offering to appease the Gods. Gradually, blood gave into wine and as we see in modern day practice, the culture of cracking open a bottle of champagne emerged. Also, modern day practice involves a woman christening the ship to bring good luck and prosperity for the vessel. 

Ship sponsor Allison Stiller christens the Virginia-class attack submarine Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Mississippi (SSN 782) during a ceremony at the General Dynamics Electric Boat shipyard. Mississippi is the fifth U.S. Navy ship to bear the name of the Magnolia State and the ninth Virginia-class submarine. (U.S. Navy photo by John Narewski/Released)

3. Unlucky Friday: In the past, Friday was considered to be an unlucky day to start a seafaring venture and meant that the voyage would be ultimately unsuccessful. Imagine applying the rule to modern day navigation! Business would be hampered and ship owners would be aghast at the prospect of the ship being halted just because it’s a Friday! This belief is said to have emerged from the fact that Christ was crucified on a Friday and hence a ship beginning a voyage on that very day would be a bad omen. Working on the same lines, Sunday was considered to be an August day to begin for Christ was resurrected on a Sunday. Again, baseless conjecture that would cause a great deal of loss if they were to be applied today.

4. Whistling Up A Wind: Often, a seafarer might’ve heard that whistling on the bridge might result in a storm. It was believed that whistling on ship resulted in ‘whistling up a storm’! Also, there existed a belief that clapping on ship resulted in bringing thunder and lightning.

5. Ghost on Ship: Every seaman has also heard stories of ghosts and paranormal activities haunting ships, especially after an unfortunate event has occurred on board. Many believe that spirits of those who have lost their lives on ships remain there for a long time. Many even make stories of their unusual experiences with ghosts and why they fear going to a particular area on the ship. In case series of accidents or mishaps have taken place on board, it is said that the ship is cursed and the blame is put on the spirits that are haunting the ship.

Ghost stories are still popular among seafarers around the world. Though most of them are nothing more than fiction, many seafarers admit to have seen, experienced and even clicked them on board.

6. No Bananas On Board : This might sound weird on today’s modern ships where bananas are served almost regularly for breakfast. However, during the 1700s, bananas were considered bad luck for ships as it was observed that most of the ships carrying cargo of bananas disappeared at the sea and never made it to their destinations. Another explanation is that bananas carried on board ships fermented quickly and released toxic gases, which would kill sailors on board. Yet another theory says that a peculiar species of poisonous spider used to hide in the bunches of bananas and many crewmen died from their bites, reinforcing the superstition that bananas on board ships were a bad omen.

7. Forbidden Words: From the early days of shipping, many words have been banned from using on ships. Some words such as “good bye” and “drowned” were prohibited to ensure safe return of the ship and it’s crew. Another weird theory was that people on board were not allowed to speak the word “good luck” as it was considered to bring bad luck. In case someone said “good luck”, the only way to reverse the unfortunate was to draw blood by delivering a swift punch.

Much like a Grandmother’s eloquent warning, most of these superstitions are age old adages that came about when science and technology were mostly obscure in nature. Navigation was an individual skill that a few good men possessed and honed over time. However, as is with any other traditional line of speculation, some of these ideas continue to exist and followed in a very miniscule way, mostly as just a faint reminder of a romanticised era of shipping. Popular culture has given rise to widespread interest in this aspect of seafaring and a mythical approach to seafaring; more as a fairy tale and less as a branch of core science and skill. As a sailor, one will always know that these superstitions are mostly bogus nowadays and the merchant navy would collapse under the burden of such ridiculous logic. However, as dinner table talk, these vague beliefs is what keeps the conversation funny and interesting; something that is required daily in the monotonous and tough life of a seafarer.