There are many benefits of joining merchant navy, as it offers numerous perks as a career opportunity. Often attracting a majority of youngsters on the pretext of ensuring only a 6 months’ work schedule with payment of whole year, this job profile also promises the opportunity to travel the whole world. Since merchant navy is a unique career option, there are few information to keep in mind before joining it.
Merchant Navy Eligibility
Before joining merchant navy, the candidate must be eligible to fit into the criteria set by the maritime University of a particular country, as every country has different maritime rules. Similarly, selecting the right institute should also be taken into consideration, as the trainings and education received from the institution will build the candidate’s foundation for excelling in the toughest scenarios. Just like every profession merchant navy also requires qualified candidates as per the guidelines set by the country as working on a ship requires proper mindset and skills,
Sea Sickness
The term ‘Fit for sea’ is very crucial in sailor’s life as they are only permitted to onboard the ship if they are physically sound. Even before the job starts, the candidates who don’t have sea sickness and are examined to be found perfectly fit for the sea life will be allowed for admission in the various MTI’s (Maritime Training Institute). Even if the candidate has managed to clear all the entrance exams, they have to be strong physically as well as mentally to get admission into the institutions. Since after joining the merchant navy, the candidates have to remain afloat on the water for a long time, their health and fitness becomes a grave matter.
Choosing the Right Stream
Although there are numerous streams in the merchant Navy, which an individual can opt for, a candidate must have a fair idea about his preferences. Without bluffing and assuming something, they must do proper research before selecting the suitable streams. Since every person on-boarded on a ship has a crucial role, a candidate has many options to choose for starting from Captain, Chief Engineer, steward, Head chef to cadet ratings, and so on. There are 3 major departments which are Deck/Navigation Dept., Engineering Dept., Saloon Dept., and so on, under which these ranks are assigned. Amongst these positions, someone can choose any stream of his choice based his ability and competency. The person will be responsible for all the work assigned under that specific designation. As a result of which, they should be well prepared.
Sacrifice of Social Life
Since human is a social animal, the most important point is excluding social life if you are thinking about joining merchant navy. A person who is fond of social life and loves spending time with friends and do parties, must think twice before joining merchant navy as he has to stay away from his family and friends for months. Since, at present the ships are technologically advanced as well as WIFI-enabled with satellite phones, merchant navy professionals can easily spend some virtual moments with family and friends. Although you would not be present with them physically, you will not feel alone or depressed due to home sickness.
