Your Training - Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if I'm already studying an Engineering degree?
A: If you are at present an engineering student you can obtain sponsorship for the last two years of your degree. After you finish your degree you will then go on to complete further training at sea and short courses to ultimately obtain the Officer-of-the-Watch qualification.
Q: How long is the training?
A: The duration of your training depends on your chosen discipline. Deck Trainees will take between 3 and 3½ years to complete training, Engineer and ETO Trainees will take about 3 years to complete theirs.
Q: What kind of long-term security does the Merchant Navy offer?
A: The Merchant Navy offers excellent long–term security, even when officers decide they no longer wish to serve at sea. Men and women with good skills and sea experience are much in demand for secure, well–paid jobs on–shore.
Q: What is the range of careers available?
A: Men and women trained in all disciplines are needed to keep our ships and ports working. Engineering, mechanics, navigating, team–management and motivation are just a few of the skills people acquire as part of their training and their time at sea.
Q: What about the earning potential?
A: Newly–graduated officers can take home tax–free earnings in the region of £23,000+ per annum. Obviously as you progress through the ranks at sea, your pay will increase. And the jobs on-shore will reflect your skills, experience and pay expectations.
Q: Is there a good career structure?
A: Absolutely. New graduates can rise through the ranks, gaining new qualifications along the way and could end up as Captain of a ship one day. Or, if they wanted to spend more time with family, elect to move their career to a shore–based position.
Q: Is the Merchant Navy suitable for officers of either sex?
A: Absolutely. While it's been a male–dominated industry, an ever increasing number of women now apply to be Merchant Navy Trainee Officers and subsequently enjoy careers at sea.
