For anyone new to the sea, the biggest unknown is not the work itself but the rhythm of life on board. Understanding contracts, rotations and the daily routine helps you choose the right job and arrive prepared.
Contract length and rotation
Contracts are usually measured in months on board, followed by paid leave at home. Common patterns:
- Merchant fleet: typically 4–9 months on, with leave afterwards. Longer trips often mean higher total earnings.
- Offshore: equal rotations such as 4 weeks on / 4 weeks off, sometimes with pay only for time on board.
- Cruise and ferry: contracts of several months with structured schedules.
Always check whether the salary is on board only or includes leave, and whether overtime is guaranteed.
A day at sea
Life on board runs on watches and routines. A typical day includes:
- Watchkeeping — navigation or engine-room watches, often in a 4-on/8-off pattern for officers.
- Maintenance and operations — cargo work, drills, inspections and upkeep of the ship.
- Meals and rest — regulated rest hours are a legal requirement under the MLC.
- Downtime — gym, films, calls home where internet is available.
Wellbeing matters
Long contracts test anyone. The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) sets standards for rest, food, accommodation and access to shore. Good employers respect them — another reason to choose a reliable company.
Match the job to your life
Rotation and trade area affect your life as much as the salary. Decide whether you want longer trips with bigger cheques or shorter, balanced rotations, then filter by fleet on our vacancies — from offshore to tankers and bulk carriers.