Every contract begins with a sign-on — joining the ship — and ends with a sign-off — leaving it. Between those two moments sits a chain of flights, agents, documents and port formalities. Understanding it keeps you calm when plans shift, because crew-change delays cost time and money.
Before you fly
- The crewing agency sends a joining letter with the vessel, port, join date and rank.
- You receive flight tickets and, where needed, a letter of guarantee for immigration.
- Check every document is valid well beyond the contract: passport, seaman's book, visas, medical, certificates.
- Confirm the port agent's contact — the agent meets you and handles local formalities.
Joining the ship (sign-on)
- At the airport of the joining country, the port agent — or a taxi arranged by the agent — takes you to the vessel or a hotel.
- You clear immigration as a joining crew member, often on a seaman's book and joining letter rather than a tourist visa.
- On board you sign the crew agreement, hand your documents to the Master, get a safety familiarisation and your cabin.
Leaving the ship (sign-off)
- Your relief must join before you can leave — no relief, no sign-off. This is the single biggest cause of crew-change delays.
- You settle your wage account, sign off the crew agreement, and the agent arranges transport and flights home.
When things go wrong
- Visa or transit issues — always carry printed joining and sign-off letters and the agent's phone number.
- Delayed relief — contracts can be extended; know your rights on maximum service (see our guide on the seafarer contract).
- Flight disruption — keep the crewing agency and agent informed and they will rebook.
Keep your papers ready
Fast crew changes favour seafarers whose documents are complete and current. Store yours in your SeaJobs.pro profile, keep your readiness date updated in your profile, and browse open vacancies for your next join.