How To Become Merchant Navy Officer?

17.05.2023 Grady A. Lowry 0 Comments

How to join the merchant navy

Choose the job profile.
Know the basic qualification.
Understand the educational qualification.
Clear the entrance exams.
Pass the medical fitness test.
Complete your training.
Apply for competency exams.
Further your education.

Contents

- 0.0.1 What is Merchant Navy officer?

1 Which Merchant Navy job is best?
2 How long does it take to become a captain in the Merchant Navy?
3 How much do seaman captains get paid?
4 Who comes after the captain on a ship?
5 What is the hardest job on the ship?
- - 5.0.1 What is the salary of 4 engineer on a ship?
  - 5.0.2 What is the difference between the Navy and the Merchant Navy?
- 5.1 Why is it called Merchant Navy?
  - 5.1.1 Are Merchant Navy armed?
6 Is merchant marine same as Navy?

What is Merchant Navy officer?

A merchant navy officer works in the commercial sector of the maritime industry. They perform the shipping of cargo. The people across sea routes aboard cargo ships, tankers and cruise liners.

Which Merchant Navy job is best?

Stages involved in becoming a Chief Officer – There are certain stages which be undergone by the aspirants before becoming the Chief Officer. A brief explanation about them is provided here. Applying and Selection

Candidates who fill the eligibility criteria, which are mentioned above, can apply for the position of deck cadet.The selection process is based on the fulfillment of eligibility criteria.The notification and selection process takes place during May- June or from November – December

Pre Sea Training

Candidates must undergo 1-year pre-sea training in a Maritime-training institute ashore.The candidates must pay the entire tuition fee, which will be around Rs.2 to Rs.3 lakhs.Bank loans will be provided if candidates require or they do not want to give a burden to their parents.

On Board Training and Examination

After the pre-sea training, candidates will be placed on board the ship.On the ship, the training will last for six months.After the apprenticeship, the trainee is eligible for the competency examination conducted by the Directorate General of Shipping.Qualified candidates are eligible for the posts.

Progression After gaining some experience, a third officer can advance to become a second officer, but to become a chief officer, one must take exams after completing 18 months of sea time and then take another exam after another 18 months to qualify to become a captain of a ship.

Executive Officers/The Captain: It is one of the top-most level job profiles in the Merchant Navy and is regarded as the Commander of the ship. Their job includes navigating the ship and they are the representatives of ship owners. The Captain is entrusted with multiple job roles such as assigning organizational duties, navigation and maintaining discipline. The Chief Mate: Their job is to assist the Captain and they are in charge of cargo planning and deck work. They also look after the managerial work at the ship. The Second Mate/The Third Mate: They are responsible for the maintenance of equipment and assists in the cargo work. Engineering Officers: The job of the Engineering Officer is to supervise the engine room rating and performing practical tasks. Third Engineer/Fourth Engineer Officer: They are mainly responsible for maintaining the engineering room auxiliary and to maintain the boiler room equipment. Radio Officers: They operate, maintain and repair radio device in the ships. They also maintain electronic navigational aids like radar. They record weather reports, position reports and other related data.

What is a first officer in the merchant navy?

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Chief mate

General
The chief mate is customarily in charge of the ship’s cargo and deck crew.
Other names	Chief officer, first mate, first officer
Department	Deck department
Reports to	Captain
Licensed	Yes
Duties	Cargo officer, Deck department head.
Requirements	Chief Mate’s License
Watchstanding
Watchstander	Yes/Depends on shipboard manning requirements
Watch (at sea)	Varies (0400-0800, 1600-2000)
Watch (in port)	Varies (0800-1700)

A chief mate ( C/M ) or chief officer, usually also synonymous with the first mate or first officer, is a licensed mariner and head of the deck department of a merchant ship, The chief mate is customarily a watchstander and is in charge of the ship’s cargo and deck crew.

The actual title used will vary by ship’s employment, by type of ship, by nationality, and by trade: for instance, chief mate is not usually used in the Commonwealth, although chief officer and first mate are; on passenger ships, the first officer may be a separate position from that of the chief officer that is junior to the latter.

The chief mate answers to the captain for the safety and security of the ship. Responsibilities include the crew’s welfare and training in areas such as safety, firefighting, search and rescue. Epaulettes often worn by the chief officer on merchant ships (similar to those worn by a commander )

What is Merchant Navy highest salary?

Merchant Navy salary in India ranges between ₹ 0.3 Lakhs to ₹ 18.0 Lakhs with an average annual salary of ₹ 3.0 Lakhs. Salary estimates are based on 175 latest salaries received from Merchant Navys.

Which type of ship has highest salary?

Highest Paying Tanker Ships in Merchant Navy – Seafarers sailing onboard Tanker ships are paid more than those sailing in dry ships such as Bulk carriers, RO-RO ships, and Container ships. Below we are going to list some of the highest-paying Tanker ships in merchant navy.

Rank	LNG Carrier	LPG Carrier	Chemical Tanker	Oil/Product Tanker
Captain/Chief Engineer	18,000$-20,000$	12,000$-15,000$	12,000$-15,000$	12,000$-14,000$
Chief Officer/2nd Engineer	12,000$-14,000$	9,000$-12,000$	9,000$-11,000$	9,000$-11,000$
2nd Officer/3rd Engineer	5,000$-6,000$	3,500$-5,000$	3,500$-5,000$	3,500$-5,000$
3rd Officer/4th Engineer	2,500$-4,000$	2,200$-3,500$	2,200$-3,500$	2,200$-3,500$
ETO	8,000$-10,000$	5,000$-7,000$	4000$-5000$	4000$-5000$
Deck Cadet/5th Engineer	350$-750$	350$-750$	350$-750$	350$-750$

Is tattoo allowed in Merchant Navy?

Tattoos are permitted in the Merchant Navy – Tattoos and body piercings are not forbidden in the Merchant Navy. In fact, sailors are the progenitors of nautical tattoo culture. The maritime academies, on the other hand, have severe disciplinary criteria and expect officers to possess specific characteristics.

What is the lowest rank in Merchant Navy?

This page will provide you with all the information that you will need to join the merchant navy. We have tried to answer all the questions a person willing to join merchant navy will have. If you still have any specific question regarding joining this field, please send us a mail at [email protected]. Merchant navy is a specialized industry that is fully engaged in commercial activities involving the transportation of cargo and passengers through sea routes. Also termed as “Merchant Marine” in some countries, the field of the Merchant Navy is an important part of the global shipping sector and is an integral component of any nation’s economical development. As the majority of the world’s commercial activities are carried out through the sea routes, the field of merchant navy has far more prominence across the globe. The term “merchant navy” means a fleet of commercial ships that are not used for military purposes. The ships and the crew of the merchant navy are a part of the country’s commercial shipping. The professionals working on these commercial ships are called mariners or sailors or seafarers or seamen. The modern shipping industry has come a long way from the olden days of ships with sails. The modern cargo ships are massive in size and are equipped with the latest and highly advanced technology systems. This invisible industry and its unsung heroes play a great role in the development and progress of the global economy. The merchant navy is a global industry with several nationalities working together on different types of vessels. The industry offers excellent career opportunities both at sea and onshore. Merchant Navy is a global industry that provides some of the best career opportunities on different types of ships (and on land as well). Unlike any other field, Merchant Navy offers jobs that not only require specialized knowledge and training but also require a great amount of mental and physical strength. Merchant navy jobs mainly involve working on a variety of ships as officers, engineers, or ratings. These are the main three departments on almost all types of ships and they work in coordination to ensure a smooth running of the ship and its operations. If you are looking forward to a career in the merchant navy, you will be required to choose from any of these three departments: 1. Deck Department 2. Engine Department 3. Crew Ratings A course in any of the above departments will be the “stepping stone” to a successful career at sea. To join the engine department, you will need to take up a course in marine engineering, which is a 4-year degree course or a diploma course (as provided in your country). If you are a mechanical engineer, you can become a marine engineer after doing the necessary course and training (Graduate Mechanical Engineering or GME course). You can also join a marine engineering course after doing one year of mechanical engineering or equivalent. (This facility will depend on the country you belong to) On completion of marine engineering degree, you will join a ship as a Trainee/Fifth engineer and then move ahead in the ranking system as = the fourth engineer -> third engineer -> second engineer -> chief engineer. To join the deck department, you will have to take up a course in BSc. in nautical science, which is basically a 3/4 years course. A course in nautical science will pave the road for becoming a deck officer on a ship. On completion of the nautical science course, you will join a ship as a trainee/deck cadet and then move ahead in the ranking system as = third officer/mate -> second officer/mate -> chief officer/mate ->> captain. You can also join a ship as ETO (electro-technical officer) if you have a background of electrical or electronics. You will be required to take up pre-sea training followed by mandatory onboard training. Apart from deck officers and marine engineers, a ship also requires a supporting staff that would assist the officers and carries out various other important tasks. Such job opportunities fall under ratings. To join a ship as ratings, various job opportunities are: In Engine Department

Fitter
Motorman
Wiper

In Deck Department

Able Seaman (AB)
Bosun
Ordinary Seaman (OS)
Fitter

You can also join the saloon department as

Steward
Chief cook

The number of positions/ranks available on a ship depends on the type of the ship, the size of the ship, and company policy. As mentioned earlier, there are three main departments onboard ships:

Deck department
Engine department
Rating

Professionals from each of these departments are classed into a hierarchy system. For the Deck department, a general overview of the ranking system is:

Chief officer/ mate
2nd officer/mate
3rd officer/mate
Deck cadet

Apart from officers, each depart also has ratings (also called deck ratings). Their ranking is as below:

Bosun (head of the rating staff)
Welder/Fitter (this rank renders his services to both the deck and engine department)
Able-Bodied Seaman (AB)
Ordinary Seaman (OS)
Trainee OS

For the Engine department, a general overview of the ranking system is:

Chief / First engineer
2nd engineer / First assistant engineer
3rd engineer / Second assistant engineer
4th engineer / Thirst assistant engineer
5th engineer / Engine Cadet
Electrical officer (ETO)

Just like the deck department, the engine department also has ratings. Their ranking is as below:

Fitter
Motorman
Wiper
Trainee Fitter / Trainee Wiper

Saloon department:

Steward
Trainee cook
Chief cook

Note : Though Captain comes at the top of the ranking system of the deck department, technically, the Ship Captain is above everyone on board. Merchant navy officers mainly wear a white shirt and black trousers, along with epaulettes according to the rank on the ship.

The uniform is accompanied by black formal shoes and a pullover or sweatshirt during cold climate conditions. The cap (P-cap) is a black hood with a white top having an anchor symbol. However, while working on ships, the crew usually wears a boiler suit along with personal protective equipment (PPE). The personal protective equipment will change according to the type of ship and the kind of work that is to be performed.

Officers are supposed to wear the uniform when on the ship’s bridge, mess room or as asked by the ship’s captain. Needless to say, the merchant navy uniform is of great importance and pride and maritime professionals are required to keep the uniform up-to-date and clean at all times.

Container ships
Bulk carriers / Bulkers
Tanker ships
Passenger ships/cruise ships
Ro-R0 ships (Roll-On Roll-Off vessels)
Ferries
Offshore vessels

Do note that there are different types of each of the ships mentioned above. The type of work, schedule, and life on board will vary according to the kind of ship one sails on. Considering the nature of work, maritime professionals have a lifestyle that is quite different from those of landlubbers.

This is not the usual 9-to-5 kind of job. As a maritime professional, you would be usually working in 4-hours shifts, twice a day, in addition to extra hours. Maritime professionals usually have a contract with a shipping company. The contract period can last from 4 – 9 months depending on the rank and type of ship.

After you sign a contract with a shipping company, you will be asked to board the ship from a convenient port on the ship’s sailing route. Most of the time you will take a flight (all expenses are borne by the shipping company) to the concerned port to board the vessel.

Travel the world – Though a lot of restrictions are there as far as shore leaves are concerned, the fact remains that maritime professionals do get a chance to see the world, no matter to what extent and way it would be
Major savings of income – Most of the time, the income seafarers earn is tax-free. Also, as food, accommodation, and transfers are taken care of by the companies, seafarers can save a lot of their hard-earned money
Adventurous life – As mentioned earlier, this job is not like any other out there in the world. No doubt it is tough, but at the same time, it is highly challenging and adventurous. There is a lot to learn at sea, both professionally and personally.

Having said that, there are also certain other things you should know about life at sea:

Limited Social Life – As maritime professionals work onboard ships at sea, they have to stay away from their families for an extended period of time. Though the internet and connectivity have made communication much easier and frequent, the distance from loved ones often takes a toll on seafarers. Working among a limited number of people and in a confined environment means limited social life.
Harsh Working Conditions – Working at sea in a hostile environment is not only difficult but dangerous as well. You are expected to work during rough weather conditions, extreme weather and temperature, around heavy machinery and toxic substances. Most of the jobs need to be done manually. During an emergency, one would be required to work for long hours with less or sleep. Also, there are other hazards such as piracy, war-torn countries etc.
Regular examinations and upgrades – After completing the required sea time, maritime professionals have to give examinations at regular intervals of time to attain promotion and move ahead in their careers. They are also required to do several upgrades and supplementary courses as required by the company and the type of ship are they work on.

These are some of the main factors you should consider before joining the merchant navy. Not everyone can join the merchant navy. You need to have the minimum qualifications required for a particular job onboard ship. You also need to be physically fit and fulfil the basic medical requirements to join the merchant navy.

However, do note that the requirements will differ according to the country you belong to. For e.g.
In India, in order to become an officer in the deck or engine department, you will need Physicals, Chemistry, Maths (PCM) as your main subjects.
You will also be required to have the English language as a separate subject.

Some important points:

Merchant navy is a physically and mentally challenging job. Make sure you are prepared for it. Try to do as much research as possible about life at sea. Try asking people who are sailing and have a good amount of experience. You can go through several articles in our life at sea category or ask questions at the forums
Don’t join just for the money. No doubt the merchant navy is famous for offering the best salaries but that is because of the nature of the job. Don’t fall for the money trap. Join only if you are genuinely interested in learning and ready to work with your bare hands. This is not a desk job and it might require you to “get dirty” from time to time. If you think this is not something you can do for a long time, then rethink your decision
Be ready to struggle in the start. The number of jobs available for fresh maritime graduates is limited. Be ready to take up whatever opportunity you get at the start and complete your training period. Don’t fall for fake promises of agents.

For more about the requirements for joining each department on ships, scroll down to the “frequently asked question” section. How to identify fake maritime agents and institutes? How to do marine engineering after doing mechanical engineering One can join merchant navy by taking up courses by –

Becoming a marine engineer by pursuing a degree course in marine engineering

You can opt for a marine engineering degree or diploma course from one of the DG shipping approved colleges in India (Check the official website of your country for necessary details). You can also do B.Tech./B.E in marine engineering after doing mechanical engineering or equivalent.

(Check FAQ section below for more details) 2. Become a deck officer by pursuing a degree in Nautical science You can become a deck officer either by doing DNS (Diploma in nautical science) or by doing BSc. in Nautical science from DG shipping approved college (Check the official website of your country for necessary details).3.

Join as GP rating or Saloon rating You can join a pre-sea GP rating course after the 10th or 12th (In India) in order to join as a rating. This is a one year course followed by mandatory training on ships. The fees would depend on the course you are planning to take, the college and the country where you plan to take it in.

No matter what maritime training institute you choose it is important to note that that college is recognised by the government of that country (e.g.
In India, it needs to be recognised by the DG shipping of India and the IMU or Indian Maritime University).
The fees of government maritime colleges will differ from that of private colleges and therefore it is important to go through the website of each individual college.

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According to the DG shipping website/IMU of India, the course fees of maritime courses for governmental institutes are as followed:

4 year BE/B.Tech Marine Engineering course – Approx. INR 225,000 / year ; i.e. INR 10,00,000 for 4 years course
3 year BSc. Nautical Science course – Approx. INR 225,000 / year ; i.e. INR 600,000 for 3 years course
1 year Diploma in Nautical Science – Approx. INR 225,000 – 300,000 / year
1 year Graduate Mechanical Eng. GME Course – Approx INR 200,000 / year
6 months GP Rating / Saloon course – Approx INR 150,000
ETO course – Approx INR 150,000 – 300,000

However, the fees of private colleges vary greatly as there are no guidelines on the same. The range of fees for different maritime courses in private colleges ranges in:

4 year BE/B.Tech Marine Engineering course – Approx. INR 17,00,000 – 20,00,000 (Total)
3 year BSc. Nautical Science course – Approx. INR 14,00,000 – 17,00,000 (Total)
1 year Diploma in Nautical Science – Approx. INR 400,000- 600,000 / year
1 year Graduate Mechanical Eng. GME Course – Approx INR 300,000 – 500,000 / year
6 months GP Rating/ Saloon Rating course – Approx INR 200,000 – 300,000
ETO course – Approx INR 300,000 – 500,000

Please do note that the information provided above is just for educational purposes. The fees may vary according to a lot of factors and it is prudent to make a thorough enquiry from the institute you plan to join, along with seeking information about placement history.

There is no one answer to how much a maritime professional will earn as it depends on several factors such as nationality, company, type of vessel, rank, qualification, experience etc.
The merchant navy is famous for offering attractive salaries to professionals, however, a lot differs from country to country and company to company.

However, to give a general overview of how much on average a seafarer earns, we will consider the average salaries of Indian seafarers across various departments and ranks. Below is a very general range of salaries in USD ($): Junior engineer or deck cadet – 350- 1000 USD 4th Engineer / 3rd officer – 2400 – 4200 USD 3rd Engineer/ 2nd officer – 4000-5000 USD 2nd Engineer/Chief officer – 5500-11000 USD Chief engineer/ Captain – 8000 – 15000 USD Electrical Officer – 2500 – 4000 USD Pumpman – 1000-2400 USD Bosun – 1350 – 1800 USD Ordinary Seaman – 800-1100 USD Able Seamn – 1000-1400 USD Fitter – 1000 – 1500 USD Oiler – 800 – 1300 USD Engine Rating/ Wiper – 600-1000 USD Chief Cook – 1400-2500 USD Steward – 600-1500 USD Note: This is just a rough estimate of the salaries that are earned in the merchant navy.

The salaries would change according to the company, the type of ship, seniority, loyalty, experience, skills etc.
How much does an Indian seafarer earn? A common confusion among students wanting to join the merchant navy is to choose between the deck department and the engine department.
Technically, it is a very subjective thing as a lot depends on the liking of an individual.

Difference between nautical science and marine engineering As an engineer on board, be ready to do a lot of work using your hands, no matter what rank you are. Don’t be hesitant to “get dirty” and use a lot of physical strength. Unlike engineers in other fields who always have people to assign jobs to, marine engineers on board have to perform a lot of jobs on their own, many times without any assistance, as the manpower on board is limited.

Maritime professionals belonging to the engine department are responsible for maintaining and operating machinery on ships, both in the engine room and on deck. Engine personnel will be in “boiler suit” most of the time. As a deck officer, one will be responsible for navigation, cargo operations and other deck jobs on ships.

As the main jobs of a deck officer will be navigating the ship and handling cargo operations, be ready for long hours of work both at sea and onshore (Someone joining the engine department should also be ready for the same). A deck officer will be in uniform most of the time.

However, needless to say, both deck and engine departments need to work as a team for the safe and smooth operation of the ship. Read here to read a more detailed article on choosing between deck department and engine department.10 Common Questions Aspiring Merchant Navy Professionals Ask What is the difference between the merchant navy and defence navy In case you want to join the merchant navy as a rating, then you can do so by joining as a GP (general purpose) rating or Saloon rating.

The requirements to join as a rating is pretty basic. For e.g. in India, you can join after the 10th or 12th, provided you pass the medical examination. You are required to do a GP rating course in order to be eligible to join any foreign going vessel. After joining a GP rating course, you will have to sail on a foreign going vessel for minimum of 36 months to become eligible to apply for a watch-keeping certificate, after which, you can join a ship as a third officer.

After doing a GP rating course, you will join a ship as a trainee in the deck or engine department.
If you belong to the deck department, you will be responsible for deck maintenance jobs such as chipping, painting, etc.
You will also be required to assist in watchkeeping along with the duty navigation officer.

If you belong to the engine department, you will mainly assist the duty engineer office in watchkeeping and maintenance jobs or work during daytime in unmanned ships or as asked by the chief engineer/2nd engineer. So technically in the start, you will join as an ordinary seaman.

After nine months (or depending on the company), you will be promoted as Able Seaman, whose main job is to manage OS. Most of the companies have a 9-month contract for ratings and it can take about 6-7 years to become an officer. If you join a ship as an engineer, your job will mainly deal with the operation and maintenance of various machinery systems on board.

The jobs will differ according to the rank but it will involve taking care of some form of machinery, either in the engine room or on the deck. Each engineer is designated with one or more machinery systems and is responsible for the overall working and maintenance of them.

Chief Engineer – He is the head of the ship’s engine department. Being the overall in charge of the engine room, the chief engineer decides and allocates jobs to the 2nd engineer, who further distributes them among the lower ranks. He is at par with the rank of Captain but technically comes under him according to the ship’s hierarchy system.
2nd Engineer – The second engineer delegates duties to other engineers and crew. He is the one responsible for allocating daily jobs and monitoring the work performance of everyone in the engine room department. Everyone reports to the 2nd engineer and he is responsible for addressing their concerns and complaints. The second engineer is also responsible for the operation and maintenance of the main engine, boilers and steam system, steering gear, ship safety systems and equipment, deck crane, lifeboat and lifeboat engine etc. The second engineer usually has the knowledge and skills equivalent to that of the Chief Engineer and is capable of handling any situations without him. Apart from being in a managerial position, the second engineer is also a watch-keeper.
3rd Engineer – The 3rd engineer is mainly responsible for auxiliary engines, pumps, freshwater generators, air conditioning and refrigeration system etc. He/she is also a watch-keeping engineer.
4th Engineer – He/she is responsible for fuel and lube oil purifiers, air compressors, bunkering operations, etc. He is also a watchkeeping engineer.
TME (Trainee marine engineer) or 5th engineer – As the name suggests, he/she is not a licensed watch-keeping engineer and is on board as a trainee. His/her main job is to learn as much as possible from everyone in the engine room. Usually, the fifth engineer is required to assist 2nd engineer at all times, however, he/she can be asked to assist anyone in the engine room. The fifth engineer is the “jack of all trades” and sometimes know more about the engine room than any other rank.

The above-mentioned description and duties are for educational purposes only. Do note that the duties and machinery assigned to each rank can vary according to the type of the ship, experience and knowledge of the person, company policy, decision of the 2nd/chief engineer etc.

The Captain (Master) – The captain is the final authority and the head of the ship. He/she holds command of the ship and oversees all operations. The total responsibility of the ship, cargo and the crew is on his/her shoulders. The decisions made by the captain are final and are to be obeyed by everyone on the ship. The captain keeps an eye on all operations on a ship and ensures all crew members are carrying out their duties responsibly. In case the captain is not present on the ship, the Chief Officer is assumed to be in charge of the ship.
Chief Officer – The chief officer is the one responsible for assigning duties and jobs (as directed by the captain) to other ranks in the deck department. He /she overlooks all deck operations and supervises the crew in a smooth and efficient workflow. He/she also takes care of cargo operations when the ship is at the port and ensures the overall safety of the ship and its crew.
Second Officer – The second officer is a watchkeeping officer responsible for navigational charts and publications onboard. He/ she is also assigned the responsibility of the ship’s medical officer and services related to the same. He keeps watches both at sea and at the port.
Third officer – The third officer is responsible for upkeep and maintenance of all firefighting appliances (FFA) and life-saving appliances (LSA) on a ship. As a watchkeeping officer and safety officer of the ship, the third officer keeps watches, both at sea and at a port. He/she is also responsible for all port documents required by the master and managing of the bond store.
Deck Cadet – Deck cadet is not a licensed professional on board. He/she is a trainee who is there on the ship to learn as much as possible. Usually, the deck cadet has to assist the chief officer at all times, however, the chief can assign him/her according to the situation. The cadet can be asked to perform jobs such as taking sounding, painting, ballasting/de-ballasting, cargo watches, navigational watch, paperwork, maintenance jobs etc. Technically, the deck cadet is the “jack of all trades” and sometimes know more about the ship than the rest of the crew members.

The above-mentioned description and duties are for educational purposes only. Do note that the duties and responsibilities assigned to each rank can vary according to the type of the ship, experience and knowledge of the person, company policy, decision of the chief officer/captain.

Both deck and engine departments are comprised of important crew members who work along with the officers to ensure smooth and efficient sailing. They are a vital part of the team and their contribution is highly important. Let’s take a look briefly at the duties and responsibilities of each of these: Bosun – Bosun is the head of the deck crew and performs various deck operations/jobs along with the rest of the crew and as directed by the chief officer.

He is also the spokesperson of the crew department and is responsible for supervising the crew and bringing their concerns and complaints to the chief officer. Able-Bodied Seaman (AB) – Able-bodied seaman performs deck jobs such as chipping, painting, cleaning etc.

He also assists the duty officer in ship navigation watch.
Able-bodied seaman, after gaining the necessary experience, becomes Bosun.
Ordinary Seaman (OS) – The ordinary seaman assists the AB and Bosun in deck jobs such as chipping, painting, cleaning etc.
He cannot keep a watch with the watch-keeping officer on the bridge as he doesn’t have a watch-keeping certificate.

With proper experience and after gaining a watch-keeping certificate, he/she become AB. Motorman – The motorman assists the duty officer is watch-keeping by taking readings of various machinery and systems and keep a contact watch on them. He also assists the engineering officer during maintenance and overhauling jobs.

Oiler – The oiler works in the engine room with the engine officers and helps in overhauling and maintenance of machinery. He also helps in cleaning, painting, etc. and as directed by the 2nd officer. An oiler goes ahead to become a motorman. Fitter – Fitter, as the name suggests, is someone who is an expert in welding, gas cutting, grinding, operating lathe machines etc.

He/she assists the 2nd engineer in the engine room and performs tasks assigned by the latter. Depending on the job requirement, he/she might be sometimes called by the deck department to carry out certain tasks. Fitter is an important rank on board ships.

Wiper – Wiper helps the engine room crew during maintenance jobs and as directed by the second engineer. He/she also keeps the engine room cook and assist during overhauling jobs. With experience, a wiper becomes an oiler. Chief Cook – Chief is a man/woman of great importance as he/she prepares food for all the people on board.

The chief cook also assists the master in planning and ordering provisions on a ship. Depending on the size of the ship and the number of crew members, the chief cook will have an assistant cook to help in duties. The job of a chief cook is a tough one as he/she has to ensure that crew members from different nationalities are liking the food prepared on board.

Steward – Steward mainly helps the chief cook for preparing and cooking food for the people on board. He/she is also responsible for cleaning the mess and the accommodation area. He/she also cleans officer cabins, washes linen, dishes etc. He/she serves food to the officers and is always present in the officer’s mess during meal hours.

Steward gains experience and progresses to become the chief cook.

How much does a captain in the Merchant Navy make in Dubai?

The average salary for Captain is AED 25,250 per month in the Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The average additional cash compensation for a Captain in the Dubai, United Arab Emirates is AED 60,000, with a range from AED 16,000 – AED 2,39,568.

Can anyone join the Merchant Navy?

University – You can start your career as a Merchant Navy officer-cadet (deck) on an industry sponsored foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree, at a maritime college or university. Courses usually include onboard practical training. Subjects offered include:

nautical science marine operations navigation and maritime science mechanical and marine engineering

You can find out more about the applications procedure for courses and finding a sponsor from Careers at Sea,

How long are merchant seaman at sea?

Sea Year Questions – What is the Sea Year mission? Sea Year is a cooperative educational program designed to give you practical knowledge of the performance and operating characteristics of various classes of vessels, the operating requirements in different trade routes, and labor relations in the ocean shipping industry.

When do I Sail? Your first sea period takes place during your sophomore year and lasts about 135 days.
The second sea period, in the junior year, is longer, lasting about 265 days.
Who monitors my assignment? Sea Year is administered by the Office of Shipboard Training in the Department of Professional Development and Career Services.

You will work with an Academy Training Representative (ATR) who will assign you to your vessels, monitor and guide your progress, and serve as a liaison between you, the shipping companies and the Academy. With whom do I sail? You will be assigned to a vessel with a fellow student.

Your ATR makes every effort to pair you with a requested midshipman when possible. What is the sea project? The Sea Project is a number of courses that help you utilize your ship as seagoing laboratory. It is, in a sense, “homework” which you complete at sea in addition to the shipboard tasks assigned to you by your vessel’s officers.

The Sea Project is carefully designed to fit your major and ensures that you apply the knowledge and skills learned in Academy classrooms to your shipboard experience. At sea, you will complete written assignments that are graded by the Academy. You also will take oral and written examinations after returning from sea.

Do I earn pay? During your time at sea, you will be paid about $1,200 a month.
To which vessels am I assigned? During your first sea period, you’ll be assigned to different kinds of vessels – a container ship, a roll-on/roll-off, a breakbulk cargo ship – to familiarize you with the types of vessels that comprise the U.S.

merchant fleet. During your second sailing period, you may request assignment to a specific type of vessel to satisfy a career interest. Midshipmen with a strong desire for a naval career may request service aboard a U.S. Navy ship for part of the second sea period.

Where will I travel? Midshipmen sail all over the world, to wherever there is a port! You may travel to Central and South America; to the Scandinavian countries; to the Far East, the Middle East and the Indian Subcontinent; to Northern Europe; to the Mediterranean and Africa; to the Caribbean and to ports in the U.S., including Alaska and Hawaii.

What do I take? Midshipmen are encouraged to travel light, taking only what they need at sea. You will be given a list of what to pack in your sea bag. Everyone takes a lap top computer. Can I call home? Communication with home is done through email and issued satellite communication devices.

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What age is merchant marine?

You must be at least 16 years of age before obtaining a Merchant Mariner’s Document (MMD). If you are between the age of 16 and 18, then you must present a notarized statement of consent from a parent or legal guardian providing written permission for you to go to sea.

Is a merchant seaman a military?

First, what is a mariner? A mariner – or merchant mariner – is an employee of the U.S. Merchant Marine (USMM). The USMM is managed by the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) and consists of privately-owned, U.S.-registered merchant ships and vessels that provide waterborne transportation for passengers and cargo moving in domestic and international commerce.

It supports international trade, disaster relief, military conflict and the general infrastructure of America’s waterways. Mariners are the men and women who run it all – from our ports and connectors, to vessel management and shipping around the world. United States Military Veterans have a wide range of technical, logistical and managerial experience from their time in services, some of it already tailored waterborne operations.

The Military to Mariner program is designed to help veterans capitalize on their experience and get on a fast-track to a role in the U.S. Merchant Marine.

Can’t I just visit a USMM recruiter?
What is the basic application Process?
What will my “title” be in the U.S. Merchant Marine?
Will I feel like I am in the military?
How much will I be paid?
Useful documents
Application, Step 1: Understand the process and hiring authority
Application, Step 2: Gather your military record annd sea-service documents
Application, Step 3: Obtain your Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)
Application, Step 4: Apply for your TWIC
Application, Step 5: Complete required training
Application, Step 6: Ship out
Using the G.I. Bill (a Veteran benefit)
Other paths to becoming a Mariner

Technically, the U.S. Merchant Marine isn’t a governmental service, which means there is no central hiring facility or recruiting stations. Still, there are identification and credentials issued by the federal government for standards purposes, so there is a process that requires a bit of paperwork and travel to an evaluation facility.

Below, we list, step-by-step, how to apply using your Navy or Coast Guard experience. For Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps guidance, click here, Back to top It’s simple. You present your military credentials and all elements of this application to authorities of the United States Coast Guard (USCG), the regulatory agency responsible for seagoing credentials for U.S.

merchant mariners. If accepted, you will receive a United States Coast Guard license or certificate and complete any with additional USCG training as needed. Then you will serve as a U.S. merchant mariner. Jump to the detailed process That depends on your experience, training, interests, and goals.

merchant mariners with licensed endorsements (an officer with a “rank”)
merchant mariners with unlicensed endorsements (a mariner with a “rating”)

Licensed mariners fill many of the Merchant Marine’s leadership and training positions, directing the organization and making key decisions across the board. Think of them as professionals with advanced training in their field (significant maritime-related experience and knowledge) that require a special designation (a license) who provide critical functionality to Merchant Marine Operations.

Like surgeons to their operating room staff or airline pilots to their flight crew. Unlicensed mariners are the backbone of the Merchant Marine workforce, an army of skilled and newly-trained workers with little or no prior experience afloat. These mariners hold “certifications” rather than licenses, though they can and often do advance into the licensed ranks.

After you complete the application process and pay the required fees, the Coast Guard will evaluate your experience and determine which endorsement (licensed or unlicensed) is appropriate for your skillset. Back to top Yes. The U.S. Merchant Marine is a disciplined organization similar to the traditional five service departments (Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard) under the Department of Defense.

It has leadership heirarchies, codes of conduct, vast support networks, and legislative backing.
The key difference is that you remain a civilian who must follow special laws and regulations designed for merchant mariners and enforced by a military body – the U.S.
Coast Guard.
If posted at sea, you will only serve on commercial vessels, which can share similarities with military vessels, such as position titles and lifestyle.

For example, the head of the engineering department is called the Chief Engineer and the vessel master – who commands the ship — is formally addressed as “Captain.” Your vessel will also run more efficiently than a standard commcercial vessel, and all those aboard must be ready to change course and support a United States mission anywhere in the world.

Back to top The Merchant Marine is not a government agency or a military service, so there is no central hiring agency.
This means there is not a common pay scale that applies across the agency or industry roles within it.
Each vessel owner or operator sets a unique pay scale, especially in the deep-sea industry, and pay is often linked to trade or labor union agreements.

The Department of Labor tracks wages in over 400 industries, including those used in the merchant marine. This DOT page lists the typical wages for waterborne transportation. Below are some documents and resources to help you with your decision.

” Information Concerning Employment and Training in the U.S. Merchant Marine ” (A MARAD pubication with useful summaries of paths for becoming a U.S. merchant marine)
Coast Guard’s Marine Safety Manual, Volume III (CIM 16000.8B) (A USCG publication with expansive details about Marine Industry Personnel)
National Maritime Center (NMC) website
Credentialing information

A few things to remember before getting started:

The National Maritime Center (NMC) is the U.S. Coast Guard command responsible for credentialling Merchant Mariners. They will review your application and approve if you meet the stated requirements.
NMC oversees 17 Regional Examination Centers (RECs) and Monitoring Units, located at various places around the country. You will deliver your completed application materials to any one of these locations. Do NOT send your materials directly to NMC. Your local REC should be your first step to obtaining your document, certification, or license.
NMC, RECs and public access to all USCG functions are available through the Coast Guard’s webportal Homeport,
As you are preparing for and completing the items below, don’t hesitate to contact the National Maritime Center’s Customer Service Center by email ( [email protected] ) or by telephone at 1-888-427-5662 (1-888-IASKNMC) with questions.
Before you begin, go the NMC website and then the Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) page.

a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) Application checklist
all documents for your application type, sometimes referred to as a packet. For details on which forms are needed for each application type, visit the Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) page.

Step 2b. Collect copies of your:

Transcript of Sea Service (TOSS)
History of Assignments (HOA). This includes discharges or other documentary evidence of service that indicate the name/tonnage/propulsion power of the vessels, dates of service, capacity in which the applicant served and on what waters.
DD-214, Report of Separation (if you’ve been discharged)
Records of any maritime-related courses you’ve taken that are not listed on the DD-214, Report of Separation,
A summary of your military record, including training. Do this by executing a Request Pertaining to Military Records(SF-180), You can request a paper copy of the form by contacting the closest VA Vet Center, Vet Centers are also listed in the phone book in the federal government pages. If you have any kind of afloat experience through your military service, write “Sea Service Transcript” in Section II, subsection 2 “OTHER INFORMATION AND/OR wp-content/uploads/pdf REQUESTED”, of your SF-180.
A list of any other sea-service-related experience, which the NMC will evaluate on a case-by-case basis.

NOTE for Navy and Coast Guard service members and Veterans. The NMC has determined that your recruit training meets most of the requirements for U.S. Merchant Marine Basic Safety Training. Some Navy and Coast Guard ratings will be evaluted further and potential constitute a higher level of training and sea time for merchant marine service.

The list of approved ratings is the USCG’s Marine Safety Manual, Volume III. Back to top Step 3a. Determine the USCG Regional Examination Center (REC) closest to you. A list of the 17 RECs is here, Remember, RECs perform evaluations, administer examinations, issue U.S. Merchant Mariner credentials and conduct oversight of approved courses.

They will represent first and most important contact with the USCG and NMC. You can also call the NMC (1-888-427-5662) and ask for the address and telephone number of the closest REC. Step 3b. Get a drug screen. All Merchant Mariner applicants who are required to undergo a physical examination must also pass a drug screen for prohibited substances.

Methods to satisfy this requirement are found here, Step 3c. Obtain your MMC. Most employment in the U.S. Merchant Marine requires an Merchant Mariner Credential, or “MMC” (often referred to as a “Z-card”), is issued by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). Information about obtaining an MMC is available here, or by downloading the package of forms here,

The USCG is required by law to charge a fee for the MMC, 100% of which is paid to the U.S. Treasury. The fee schedule is here, Step 3d. Deliver your complete application package to your selected Regional Exam Center. After the NMC officially accepts your application package, which must include any required fees, the NMC’s Mariner Evaluation Division will evaluate it and contact you with their decision.

Back to top The Coast Guard will issue merchant mariner credentials only to applicants who have applied for a Transportation Worker’s Identity Credential, or TWIC, which is issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The TSA is required by law to charge a fee for the TWIC, 100% of which is paid to the U.S.

Treasury. Visit the TSA TWIC page to apply. The United States is a party to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW ), which sets qualification standards for masters, officers and watch personnel aboard seagoing merchant ships.

Most mariners aboard U.S.-flag vessels will require some level of STCW training, even Veterans with little or no prior/formal water-based experience.
The National Maritime Center certifies and/or accepts most maritime-related training conducted in the United States, and there are hundreds of courses options, from the basic classes that take someone with little or no maritime background through an apprenticeship, to advanced classes that prepares you for specialized ranks and ratings.

Back to top Where will I serve? The U.S. merchant marine has over 10,000 ships and vessels. Deciding on which vessel to sail/serve is an important decision. Click here for guidance. What type of work should I do? Most commercial vessels have three departments: Deck, Engine and Steward.

Most mariners will spend their careers in only one of these departments. Common job descriptions are here, As a Military Veteran, you might have access to education-training funds under the G.I. Bill, a set of education assistance programs administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA maintains a website to answer questions about the GI Bill, and many USCG-approved training institutions accept GI Bill benefits.

These include, but aren’t limited to:

State and regional academies
The Paul Hall Center
Star Center, Dania, FL
Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies and the Pacific Maritime Institute
Calhoon MEBA Engineering School

Review this complete list of Coast Guard approved courses, which includes contact/email information for institutions in your area accepting GI Bill funds. Back to top Attend and graduate from one of the six state maritime academies or the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA),

an accredited Bachelor’s degree,
a Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC), and
a position in the United States Merchant Marine as a licensed Merchant Marine Officer (holds a United States Coast Guard license).

Join the Merchant Marine as an unlicensed merchant mariner, Like most jobs, unlicensed members of a merchant vessel’s crew are either skilled or entry-level (unskilled) or skilled. Entry-level mariners do not have afloat skills. As a Veteran with military experience that likely equates to at least some afloat skills, you can pursue and most likely achieve the skilled unlicensed mariner classification.

How many positions are there in merchant navy?

Merchant Navy Ranks For deck officers, there are around 7 positions: Captain. Chief Officer. Second Officer/ Mate.

Is a first officer higher than a captain?

What Is an Airline First Officer? – A First Officer in aviation is a commercial airline pilot who helps navigate and operate flights. They work in the cockpit with the Captain to assist them with the flight. They sit in the right seat and are the second in command (SIC), while the Captain sits in the left seat and is the pilot in command (PIC).

How long does it take to become a captain in the Merchant Navy?

Merchant Navy Scope, Syllabus, Subject – Chitkara University Handling cargo, determining ship direction, doing ship repairs, cleaning the ships, learning about different cultures, etc. This is the main focus of a merchant navy officer’s life. You can study a, marine science, marine catering, at Chitkara University if you want to enlist as a cadet.

The cadets are sent to ships for training for around 18 months after completing pre-sea training.
The cadets may scatter over several ships for breaks in between sessions.
A 15–40k stipend is given to cadets.
Following their training, individuals are qualified to take the competence test offered by the Indian government.

You can join the ship as a third officer after passing this exam. Cadets advance in position with on-the-ship experience and a few exams. The longest time required to become a captain of a ship is typically 11 years. Following their training, individuals are qualified to take the competence test offered by the Indian government.

You can join the ship as a third officer after passing this exam. Cadets advance in position with on-the-ship experience and a few exams. The longest time required to become a captain of a ship is typically 11 years. You’ll start out as a Junior Engineer or Cadet. Third Engineer, Second Engineer, and Chief Engineer round out the list of jobs.

As you gain experience at sea and pass numerous examinations administered at each level, you will advance in your job. They maintain the engine, boiler, generator, etc. and guarantee that every piece of equipment on the board is in good operating order.

Marine Engineering Naval Architecture and Offshore Engineering Petroleum Engineering Mechanical Engineering Harbour & Ocean Engineering Civil Engineering Electrical & Electronics Engineering

The industry has a wide range of potential applications, and the is among the most profitable professions. There are many distinct sorts of ships, each carrying a different kind of cargo. They can work in a field that interests them or that is available on the market.

Cadets start up making between $40k and $50k.
The upkeep of the ship is often the cadet’s responsibility, and they aid the officers in their work.
Their pay would increase to between 90k to 1,20,000 after finishing the sea time, competence testing, and joining the ship.
Similar to this, the starting salary for engineers is roughly $50,000 and can go to $100,000 or more.

Engineers handle the technical problems and are in charge of maintaining the ship’s functionality. Although the remuneration for the various firms varies, gas tankers often pay 20–30% more. The main skills required for pursuing a career in Merchant Navy are:

How much do seaman captains get paid?

How Much Do Ship Captain Jobs Pay per Month?

	Annual Salary	Monthly Pay
Top Earners	$101,000	$8,416
75th Percentile	$61,500	$5,125
Average	$47,491	$3,957
25th Percentile	$32,000	$2,666

Who comes after the captain on a ship?

Mates, or deck officers, direct the operation of a vessel while the captain is off duty. Large ships have three officers, called first, second, and third mates. The first mate has the highest authority and takes command of the ship if the captain is incapacitated.

Alternate watches with the captain and other officers Supervise and coordinate the activities of the deck crew Assist with docking the ship Monitor the ships position, using charts and other navigational aides Determine the speed and direction of the vessel Inspect the cargo hold during loading, to ensure that the cargo is stowed according to specifications Make announcements to passengers when needed

What is the hardest job on the ship?

The hardest job on cruise ship – Galley Steward Among many difficult jobs on cruise ships, handpicking the toughest one is tricky. Still, one job will stand out in terms of horrific working conditions and cruel working hours-the galley steward. For most employees, there is a minimum of information about the job description before boarding the ship.

Indeed, the galley steward is one of a kind job worldwide. I can not find any similar job that could be matched with the cruelty and inadequate pay of the galley steward job itself. Of course, when you apply back home to the agency, they will show you the white sand beaches and all these tropical places that you will visit while working on the cruise ships.

The undistorted reality is bittersweet, as proven in my long working experience on cruise ships. The agency back home is only after the percentage fee from each selected crew member, so they will often trick people into an idealistic job assignment belief.

Key Responsibilities
– Always follows operational methods and seeks advice from the Galley Supervisor if necessary.
– Follows USPHS principles and Princess Cruises procedures at all times.

– Works as part of a cleaning team responsible for consistently cleaning and sanitizing specific galley equipment and service locations, including but not limited to pots, pans, and other galley equipment (Most heavy pot in the main galley is 30.5lbs and pastry heaviest mixing bowl is 38.6lbs and 71lbs)

– Always recycles cooking service equipment before, during, and after service.
– Assist when required to unload and store food deliveries (average weight 50lbs to 60lbs)
– Willingly participates in scheduled deep cleaning in addition to everyday cleaning operations.
– Always treats all equipment used during the cleaning process and all equipment to be cleaned carefully to prevent damage.
– Reports equipment defects to the Galley Supervisor / Executive Chef / Food Manager on a daily basis.
– Always performs all duties in accordance with applicable policies and procedures, USPHS and Fleet Regulations, and other internal, external, and governmental regulations as directed.
– Always conducts galley cleaning in compliance with environmental regulations and objectives.
– Performs all General Emergency Organization duties as directed.
– Demonstrates commitment to the company’s values, beliefs, goals, and initiatives.
– Acts as a Company representative and always portray a positive image to all passengers, officers, and crew.
– Always maintains professional, effective, and motivated working relationships, considering differences in cultures, backgrounds, and individual personalities.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
•Must have a thorough knowledge of USPH practices and procedures.
•Must have good oral and written command of the English language.
•Must be experienced in cruise ship industry galley operation.
•Must have a working knowledge of scientific cleaning and sanitation procedures for the food service industry.

This is all just for show off, the companies will portray this job to sound credible, organized, and fair-and the reality is extremely opposite.
I want to pause for a second and discuss this sentence explaining what is expected from the Galley steward.
“Acts as a Company representative and always portray a positive image to all passengers, officers, and crew.”

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Wow. This is one of the biggest lies and enormous HYPOCRISY. Let me focus on the part of the galley steward job expectation where it says,” portray the positive image to all passengers.” Ok, this is crystal clear. The biggest cruise line companies are registered in the Bahamas or Panama, partly to avoid paying large US taxes and partly to avoid any stricter eligibility for crew members on board the ship.

In other words, if there is a job in the US land base as galley stewards, the company management would be arrested and charged for the horrific human rights treatment. But on the cruise line companies, that is ok because Panama and Bahamas do not have strict law regulations, so the cruise line companies are registering their ships in those countries.

The reality of the galley steward jobs includes following:12-14 hours shifts in the worst humid working conditions, untrained, biased, and horrible management for those positions, 350-400 working hours a month for a salary of $450. Yet, those people are soo resilient and strong like diamonds.

They don’t crack under pressure, they work so hard beyond the company’s expectations, and instead of getting promoted to higher positions, the company will do exactly the opposite.
The company tends to keep galley stewards on that starting position even for the 7 or 8 contracts; even those people deserved to be promoted immediately after their first contract.

The reason for that is simple-priorities-cruise ship companies’ selfishness. Only a few people are physically and mentally fit to complete the most difficult cleaning tasks in the giant ship galleys, and those people are really special. But from the company perspective, those people have to be exploited as long as possible in that role because it’s hard to find many hard workers who are soo amazingly resilient to survive working in the toughest conditions on the planet.

For that reason, company delays their promotion, and those poor people are not complaining about it because they are scared to lose what they already have. When I was only passing through those colossal galleys between guest dining rooms, I could not have breathed of the high humidity level; I stayed only for a few minutes.

Imagine working hard there for 12-14 hours daily. And on top of that, you are managed by some untrained biased managers who would squeeze you and try to test your mental limits. And then there is that requirement that says,” portray your positive picture to our passengers.” Yes, because the company does not want to show the truth to its passengers.

The company is hiding that cruelty level behind the curtain, and they expect the galley steward to smile and great passengers when passing by next to them. Some people might say everyone can accept the job on the cruise ship. But the thing is, we usually get tricked by the colorful employment agency statement back home before getting the job.

We are often provided with the fake image of white sand beaches and pina colada sunsets in beautiful tropical destinations. Of course, it is understandable for them to send this inviting picture about employment on cruise ships. But the work’s reality, especially the galley steward position, is much different than once presented by the ship agents,

On the land.
Like, everything is so wonderful and perfect, let’s just pretend that this is all a living dream.
No, it’s not.
And is time to create a law and change the US legislation that will create more rights for those hard-working people who will be protected in terms of working hours, working conditions, and abusive management systems on board the ship.

: The hardest job on cruise ship – Galley Steward

What is the salary of 4 engineer on a ship?

Highest salary that a 4TH Engineer can earn is ₹19.9 Lakhs per year (₹1.7L per month).

What is the difference between the Navy and the Merchant Navy?

1. Which one is better: Indian Navy or Merchant Navy? – Merchant Navy represents commercial marine services that consist of a fleet of ships that are used specifically for the purpose of commercial shipping, whereas Indian Navy refers to nations’ maritime military wing where the vessels/ships are solely for the purpose of national security.

Why is it called Merchant Navy?

In wartime, Britain depended on civilian cargo ships to import food and raw materials, as well as to transport soldiers overseas, and keep them supplied. The title ‘Merchant Navy’ was granted by King George V after the First World War to recognise the contribution made by merchant sailors.

Are Merchant Navy armed?

The Merchant Navy There is a lot of confusion about the term Merchant Navy. Hopefully, this will explain it. The term Merchant Navy was coined by King George V in 1919, as recognition of the sacrifice made by merchant seafarers during the First World War.

On the 14th February 1928, ‘ His Majesty King George V formally renamed the Mercantile Marine in appointing HRH The Prince of Wales as the first ‘Master of the Merchant Navy and Fishing Fleets’,
There is no such thing as THE Merchant Navy, as it has never been a single entity.
The confusion arises because people hear of The Royal Navy and The Royal Air Force.

These are Government service organisations, and you are a government employee. The correct technical term is the British Merchant Mercantile and you are a merchant seafarer. In reality the term Merchant Navy is a collective term for anything that floats, that isn’t painted grey and doesn’t have guns on it.

To put this into some context Ships over 100 tons, of which there are about 88 thousand in the world, are owned and operated by approximately 30 thousand companies and individuals. There is no central organisation, and no central records, unlike the Armed Forces. You are an employee of the individual company.

The term Merchant Navy originally was a British thing, but over the years it has been adopted around the world. : The Merchant Navy

Is merchant marine same as Navy?