A Career at Sea: How to Join the Merchant Navy in India

How to Join the Merchant Navy in India
A Career at Sea: How to Join the Merchant Navy in India

A Career at Sea: How to Join the Merchant Navy in India

Introduction

career in the Merchant Navy offers adventure, high salaries, and global exposure. Unlike traditional jobs, it involves working on cargo ships, tankers, and cruise liners while sailing across international waters.

This guide answers all key questions, including:
✔ How to join the Merchant Navy after 10th/12th?
✔ Training, certifications, and job roles
✔ Salary and contract duration
✔ Life onboard & work schedules

Let’s dive into this exciting career path!


What is the Merchant Navy?

AspectDetails
DefinitionCommercial fleet transporting goods/passengers globally
Job RolesDeck Officers, Marine Engineers, Ratings, Catering Staff
EmployersShipping companies (MSC, Maersk), Oil/Gas corporations
Key RegulatorDirectorate General of Shipping (DGS), India

How to Join the Merchant Navy in India? (Step-by-Step Guide)

1. Choose the Right Stream After 10th/12th

PathEligibilityBest Courses
After 10th40% in 10th (Science & Maths preferred)GP Rating Course (6 months)
After 12th (PCM)60% in 12th (PCM + English)B.Sc Nautical Science / B.Tech Marine Engineering
After GraduationDegree in Engineering (Mechanical/Electrical)GME (Graduate Marine Engineer) Course

💡 Key Tip: PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Maths) in 12th is mandatory for officer-level roles.


2. Clear Entrance Exams & Medical Tests

ExamPurposeConducted By
IMU CETAdmission to marine coursesIndian Maritime University (IMU)
MERMedical Exam for FitnessApproved Hospitals

Medical Requirements:
✔ Eyesight: 6/6 (No color blindness)
✔ BMI: Normal range
✔ No chronic illnesses


3. Complete Pre-Sea Training

CourseDurationInstitute
DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science)1 YearIMU, TMI, AMET
B.Tech Marine Engineering4 YearsIMU, MERI
GP Rating6 MonthsVarious DGS-approved institutes

4. Obtain Certifications & Onboard Training

  • STCW Certification (Mandatory for international sailing)
  • CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate) from DGS
  • 18-24 months of sea training as a cadet

5. Start Your Career as an Officer

Rank
Deck Cadet
Third Officer
Chief Engineer

Merchant Navy Job Duration & Work Schedule

AspectDetails
Contract Period4-9 months (varies by company)
On-Off Ratio6 months sailing + 3 months leave (common)
Duty Hours8 hours/day (4 hours watchkeeping + 4 hours work)
Shore LeaveLimited (depends on port regulations)

💡 Note: Some companies offer 4 months sailing + 2 months leave for better work-life balance.


Merchant Navy Career Options is best for you

Top Job Roles in the Merchant Navy

DepartmentJob Role
DeckCaptain, Chief Officer, 2nd Officer
EngineChief Engineer, 2nd Engineer
CateringChef, Steward
RatingsGP Rating, Fitter

Pros & Cons of a Merchant Navy Career

ProsCons
✔ High salary (tax-free for 6+ months at sea)❌ Long periods away from family
✔ Global travel & adventure❌ Physically demanding work
✔ Early retirement (by 45-50 years)❌ Limited social life onboard

Future Scope of Merchant Navy in India

✔ India supplies 10% of global seafarers – high demand.
✔ New shipping policies boosting job opportunities.
✔ LNG & offshore sector creating specialized roles.


FAQs About Merchant Navy Careers

Q1. What is the minimum age to join?

✅ 16.5 years (for GP Rating), 17 years (for IMU CET).

Q2. Can girls join the Merchant Navy?

✅ Yes! More women are becoming Deck Officers & Engineers.

Q3. Is the Merchant Navy risky?

⚠ Moderate risk (safety training is mandatory).


Conclusion

Merchant Navy career is lucrative, adventurous, and globally rewarding. If you love the sea and want a high-paying job with early retirement, this could be your perfect career!

Next Steps:
✔ Choose PCM in 12th for officer roles.
✔ Prepare for IMU CET or GP Rating entrance.
✔ Join a DGS-approved institute.

Ready to set sail? Start your journey today! ⚓

author avatar
Drisht Kanoji
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