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4 Things to Know About Starting a Maritime Career

Do you dream of the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean? You could hop a budget-haul flight to Cyprus tomorrow. Or you could dive in the Caribbean, dodge pirates in the Indian Ocean and sail through the Suez Canal.

Sailing the sea sure beats the cheap seats on an airplane. "But it's expensive", you say. "I don't know anyone who owns a yacht", you say. Or maybe you are looking for the adventure of a lifetime, and the wide expanse of ocean and solitude call to you.

Whatever your reasons, a maritime career might be for you. Read on to learn about a life on the water.

1. Opportunities Everywhere

2/3 of the Earth is covered in water. You could be working on it! A maritime career gives you opportunities. Oil and gas platforms, cruising, shipping, yachting... you name it! Careers on land have their oceangoing equivalent, plus some unique jobs you won't find elsewhere.

Firefighter? There's a need aboard. Engineer? Need people with that qualification. Chef? Yes. please. Whatever your interest, there is training available and a need for people with skills.

2. Many Reasons to Try a Maritime Career

Good pay always tops the list. Wages earned by crews are normally higher than similar professions on land. Depending on your particular situation, they can be tax-free. Second on the list is the ability to visit exotic locations. Cyprus, Panama, Antibes or Phuket catch your fancy?

A maritime career presents a huge opportunity for growth. Serving with a small group develops leadership, independence, and responsibility early on. It is possible to qualify as a Captain or Chief Engineer within 10 years. The unique working environment and flexibility of onboard life is stimulating and gives experience in many different fields.

3. Education Available Immediately

Many private yacht owners will take on temporary crew with nothing more than a smile and a willingness to learn. But if you are serious about your career prospects, you want to begin your education. Basic safety, hazard avoidance, and survival training are a must. You will find several schools in Fort Lauderdale to get you started.

Bluewater Training, Maritime Professional Training, and Professional Yachtmaster Training come to mind immediately. Professional certifications on your way to Captain begin with your basic SCTW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watch Keeping for Seafarers) training. This is compulsory for all crew.

In ports like Fort Lauderdale, classes begin year round. Crews are hiring year round too!

4. Skills Good at Sea and on Land

Employers at sea and on land will value your experience. Successful crews learn initiative. Part of learning on a crew is stepping into the unknown every day and applying newly learned skills to the task. You will have to adapt quickly to new cultures and languages.

Your ability to make connections and bridge communication gaps will be vital to your work. Being at sea places a great deal of pressure on an individual to anticipate the unexpected and thrive under pressure. A maritime career includes work ashore and transitions seamlessly.

Ready to See the World?

Reading about a maritime career whet your appetite for more? Keep reading this blog to learn more!