How to Upgrade Your Career from Fishing Vessel Join Offshore Vessel

• min read

Table of Contents

Transitioning from working on a fishing vessel to joining a offshore vessel is a powerful career move for many seafarers. Not only does it open the door to higher salaries, but it also provides better working conditions, structured contracts, and long-term career growth. If you're currently working on a fishing boat and aiming to upgrade your maritime career, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Why Upgrade from Fishing Vessel to Offshore Vessel?

How to Upgrade Your Career from Fishing Vessel Join Offshore Vessel

Working on fishing vessels is often physically demanding, with unpredictable schedules and lower job security. In contrast, offshore vessel offer:

Higher and more stable income
International career opportunities
Better safety standards
Clear career progression (e.g., from rating to officer)
More structured contracts and benefits

This is why many seafarers choose to transition into the merchant navy or cargo shipping industry.

Step 1: Understand the Requirements

Before making the switch, you need to understand that cargo ships operate under stricter international regulations. Most companies require:

Basic maritime certifications
Recognized seafarer documents
Experience relevant to ship operations

Even if you have years of experience on a fishing vessel, you may still need to upgrade your qualifications to meet cargo ship standards.

Step 2: Get the Required Certifications

To work on a offshore vessel, you must comply with international maritime standards. The most important certifications include:

1. Basic Safety Training (BST)

This is mandatory for all seafarers. It includes:

Personal Survival Techniques
Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting
Elementary First Aid
Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities

2. Seaman Book

Also known as a Seafarer’s Identification and Record Book (SIRB), this document records your sea experience.

3. STCW Certification

STCW stands for Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping. This is essential for working on international offshore vessels.

4. Medical Certificate

You must pass a medical examination to prove you're fit for sea duty.

Step 3: Upgrade Your Skills

Fishing vessel experience is valuable, but offshore vessel require additional skills. Focus on:

Basic English communication (very important)
Understanding ship operations and safety procedures
Engine or deck specialization (depending on your role)
Familiarity with cargo handling

Improving your English is especially crucial because offshore ships have multinational crews.

Step 4: Choose Your Career Path (Deck or Engine)

On offshore ships, there are two main departments:

Deck Department

Roles: Ordinary Seaman (OS), Able Seaman (AB)
Responsibilities: Navigation support, maintenance, cargo operations

Engine Department

Roles: Wiper, Oiler
Responsibilities: Engine maintenance, machinery operation

Choose the path that aligns with your experience on fishing vessels.

Step 5: Apply Through Manning Agencies

Unlike fishing vessels, offshore ship jobs are usually not hired directly. You need to apply through licensed manning agencies.

Tips for applying:

Prepare a professional CV
Highlight your sea experience clearly
Include all certifications
Be honest about your background

Look for agencies that specialize in placing entry-level seafarers transitioning from fishing vessels.

Step 6: Start from Entry-Level (Be Realistic)

Even with years of fishing experience, most companies will place you in entry-level positions such as:

Ordinary Seaman (OS)
Wiper

This is normal. Once you gain experience on cargo ships, you can quickly move up.

Step 7: Build Sea Time and Get Promotions

Your career growth depends on your sea time and performance. After your first contract:

Apply for Able Seaman (AB) or Oiler
Take advanced courses
Continue upgrading certifications

Consistency is key. Many successful officers today started from entry-level positions.

Common Challenges (and How to Overcome Them)

1. Lack of Experience on Offshore Ships

Solution: Start small, learn fast, and adapt quickly.

2. Language Barrier

Solution: Practice daily English, especially maritime terms.

3. Financial Constraints for Training

Solution: Consider saving gradually or looking for agencies that assist with training.

Tips to Get Hired Faster

Keep your documents complete and updated
Be active in seafarer job groups and communities
Network with other seafarers
Stay disciplined and professional

First impressions matter a lot in this industry.

Upgrading your career from a fishing vessel to a cargo ship is not just a dream—it’s a realistic and achievable goal. With the right certifications, mindset, and persistence, you can significantly improve your income and quality of life.

The journey may start with small steps, but every contract brings you closer to a better future in the maritime industry.

If you're serious about becoming a professional seafarer on cargo ships, start today. Prepare your documents, improve your skills, and take action.