A ship is a unique environment because it is home to those working on board, and there is a special relationship between seafarers, who enjoy a stimulating life which is different to the experience of people working ashore. Merchant seafaring is a civilian occupation. Although strict adherence to safe working practices is essential, team work is essential to creating a positive conducive working environment. There are many opportunities for socializing, both on board ship and during visits to foreign ports.

Life on board ship can be very cosmopolitan, with many different nationalities of seafarer working together. Joining the shipping industry is actually like belonging to an international club.

Merchant Navy refers to the merchant fleet of a country, which varies in capacity. Seafarers on merchant vessels, who hold various military-like ranks and responsibilities and are sometimes members of various maritime trade unions, are required by the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers to carry Merchant Mariner’s documents.

The Merchant Navy mainly deals with transporting cargo and occasionally, passengers by sea. It has different fleets composed of passenger vessels, cargo liners, tankers, Bulk carriers, Car carriers, Containers as well as the other special types of vessels. The Merchant Navy forms the backbone of International trade across the Globe for Import & Export business. The Merchant Navy has different departments as follows:

1. Navigating Officers (Deck side officers)
2. Marine Engineering Officers (Engine side officers)
3. Crew Members (To assist the officers)
4. Specialized Officers (Electrical Officer, Radio Officer)

Generally, the contract period will be for 6 to 9 months. The officers can enjoy leave and whenever they want to join back, the company will absorb them immediately. Presently the demand for Marine Engineers is high worldwide. The shipping companies are facing great shortage for the Engine Officers. The trained persons are getting immediate job opportunities all over the world