A life on the high seas could be for you
How to navagate your way into a rewarding career at sea
If you fancy life as a ferry boat captain then the most common career path is to join the Merchant Navy.
You can join the merchant navy from age 16 as an officer cadet or marine apprentice and start training as a deck officer. You’ll need at least 4 GCSEs (A* to C), including English, maths and physics (or combined science).
You could also do an industrybacked HND, foundation degree, or degree in a subject like nautical science or marine engineering.
If you already have a degree, you’ll usually be able to join a graduate programme and train as an officer in a shorter time.
You’ll need to pass an eyesight and medical exam.
Careers at Sea has more information about training routes as a merchant navy deck officer.
You’ll need • The ability to lead and
motivate. • Excellent maths for navigatingcalmness under pressure. You may work on deck, below deck or on the bridge of a range of different ships.
Your day-to-day tasks will vary depending on your rank.
As a Third officer you’ll deal with safety equipment and lifeboats, help the 2nd officer and carry out watch duties.
As a Second officer you’ll look after navigation, using radar, satellite and computer systems, and carry out watch duties.
As a chief officer you’ll help oversee deck operations and maintenance, cargo handling and storage.
As a master or captain you’ll look after the running and safety of the ship, crew, passengers and cargo. You’ll also handle legal and commercial matters.
As a deck officer in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (civilian-crewed ships operated by the Ministry of Defence), you could monitor helicopter movements and nuclear biological chemical damage (NCBD) control.
The starting salary is £20,000 moving up to £42,000 for more experienced and up to £80,000.
Your salary will depend on your ship type and rank.
Your employer may pay for food and accommodation at sea and some travel costs when onshore.
Merchant Navy ships operate around the clock and you’ll work shifts, known as watches, that vary according to the size of ship.
On a large ship, you’ll usually work four hours on duty followed by eight hours off.
Your time at sea could vary from a few days to several months. Periods of leave also vary.
If you work with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, you may work in combat zones.
The job is physically demanding.
Once you leave the Merchant Navy you could find onshore and offshore positions with shipping companies, port authorities, maritime insurance companies and shipping brokers.
You could also become a manager in other sectors.