How to fill in a seafarer application form that crewing managers read
What a crewing manager looks at first, how to describe sea service and certificates, and the mistakes that send good seafarers to the bottom of the pile.
Articles for seafarers
Practical advice for finding and starting a job at sea.
Seafarer medical certificate: how long it is valid
Maximum validity of a seafarer medical certificate under STCW and MLC 2006, the special rule for colour vision and what happens if it expires during a voyage.
STCW basic safety training: the four courses and the five-year refresher
What Basic Safety Training includes under STCW, which parts need evidence of competence every five years, and how to keep your certificates valid.
Seafarers never pay for a job: recruitment fees under MLC 2006
What the Maritime Labour Convention says about fees for recruitment and placement, which personal costs are the exception, and what to do if someone asks you for money.
How to check a crewing agency before you sign
Five checks that take ten minutes and protect you from fake agencies: licence, registry status, company details, contract and money.