How to become a seafarer from scratch: the path to your first contract in 2026

You want to go to sea but have no idea where to start? Here is the path, step by step — no illusions, no filler.

Step 1. Decide which department suits you

Deck — navigation, cargo, outdoor work, the road to master. Engine — engines, machinery, technical work, the road to chief engineer. Galley/service — cook, steward. Your choice decides which courses and CoC you need.

Step 2. Education

Two routes: a maritime academy (gives an officer CoC and cadet sea time) or starting as a rating (deckhand, motorman) through basic courses. The second route is shorter and cheaper, but your ceiling is lower until you earn a CoC.

Step 3. Core documents and courses

Travel passport, medical exam, basic STCW courses (Basic Safety Training, etc.), seaman's book, seafarer ID. This is the minimum "ticket" aboard.

Step 4. The first contract — the hardest part

It is true that companies are reluctant to take someone with no experience. What actually helps:
- registering with several crewing agencies and job boards at once;
- being willing to take a low entry position (OS, wiper, galley trainee);
- an honest CV with no invented experience;
- flexibility on vessel type and region.

Step 5. Build sea time and grow

The first one or two contracts are about experience and book entries, not money. After that a proper income and career ladder begin: OS → AB → bosun, or motorman → 4th engineer and up.

Cost and timeline

The basic package of courses and documents is a noticeable but recoverable investment. From start to first sailing, with active effort, usually a few months.

Ready to look for your first voyage? seajobs.pro has a filter where "no experience" and cadet positions appear — start there.