It’s a Life of Discipline and Responsibility, From Day One
Merchant Navy training isn’t like a regular college experience. From the first day, cadets are expected to follow strict discipline, routines, and hierarchy. Life on campus during pre-sea training includes physical training, uniforms, inspections, and adherence to naval traditions.
Once on board a ship, the responsibilities increase tenfold. Even as cadets, they are part of the ship’s operation, and a small mistake can have serious consequences. A child who is not mentally prepared for structure and discipline may struggle.
Loneliness and Isolation Are Real Challenges
Perhaps the most misunderstood aspect of the Merchant Navy is the emotional toll it can take. Cadets and officers often spend 6 to 9 months at sea, away from home, family, and friends. Internet access can be limited or expensive.
Many seafarers experience homesickness, loneliness, or even depression — especially in the early years. Parents must prepare their children emotionally and ensure they’re mentally strong, self-reliant, and capable of handling solitude.
It’s Not Just a Job — It’s a Lifestyle
This career doesn’t end at 5 p.m. or offer weekends off. Ships operate 24/7, and duty shifts (watches) go on round the clock, including nights and holidays. Birthdays, festivals, and even family emergencies are often missed.
It’s important to ask: Is your child ready for a lifestyle that separates them from daily social life? If the answer is yes, the Merchant Navy can be incredibly rewarding.
The Career Path Is Long and Demanding
Many parents think a child joins the Merchant Navy and quickly becomes a Captain or Chief Engineer. The reality is different.
Here’s a rough breakdown for Deck Cadets (similar for Engine Cadets):
– Pre-Sea Training: 1 year for DNS or 3 years for BSc Nautical Science
– Sea Time (Cadetship): 12–18 months
– 2nd Mate CoC Prep + Exam: 10–12 months
– Third Officer to Master Progression: Can take 8–12 years
Each level requires additional exams, courses, and sea time. It’s not just a degree — it’s a license-based profession regulated by maritime authorities.
There’s an Initial Investment — But It Pays Off
Many pre-sea courses (DNS, BSc, GME) cost ₹5–10 lakhs. Parents must be careful to verify the institute’s DG Shipping approval and placement tie-ups before enrolling.
It’s advisable to prefer company-sponsored programs, where job placement after training is more assured. Private programs without placement support can leave students waiting months — or even years — for a ship.
That said, once a cadet completes their training and becomes an officer, the investment pays off. Salaries for junior officers range from ₹1.5–2.5 lakh/month (tax-free), and senior officers earn even more.
Physical and Medical Fitness Is Non-Negotiable
Your child must undergo a strict medical exam by a DG Shipping-approved doctor before joining. This includes eyesight (unaided 6/6 vision for Deck officers), color blindness test, hearing, physical fitness, and absence of chronic illnesses.
Even minor issues like color blindness, asthma, or frequent motion sickness can disqualify a candidate. Ensure your child is aware of the medical criteria before enrolling in any course.
A Degree Is Not Enough — CoC Matters More
Parents often ask: “Should we choose a degree course or diploma (DNS)?”
Understand this: A degree helps, but it’s the Certificate of Competency (CoC) — issued after clearing exams post-sea time — that determines rank and progression.
Whether your child does a diploma or degree, without clearing the CoC exams, they can’t become an officer. What matters more is clearing exams, gaining seatime, and progressing through ranks, not just academic qualifications.
Safety at Sea: How Risky Is It?
Modern merchant ships follow strict safety regulations under the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Seafarers undergo STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) courses for safety, firefighting, survival, and medical emergencies.
While accidents are rare, bad weather, piracy-prone zones, and engine failures are real situations that officers must deal with. Rest assured, if your child is placed with a reputed company, they will follow global safety protocols.
Social Stigma and Misunderstandings
There are many myths — “Merchant Navy boys are into alcohol, bad habits, etc.” While some may indulge, that is true of any profession.
Parents must focus on teaching their children values, discipline, and financial responsibility — not fear the profession itself. The Merchant Navy is a noble, hard-earned career, not one of leisure or shortcuts.
Talk to Seniors, Not Just Agents
One of the biggest mistakes parents make is trusting agents or coaching centers without verifying details. Many students are scammed by false promises of placement or fake documents.
Speak directly to experienced officers, cadets, or reliable Merchant Navy forums. Ask questions. Verify course approval. Get a realistic picture before investing money or emotions.
Final Thoughts: Should Your Child Join?
If your child is:
– Physically fit and medically eligible
– Mentally strong and emotionally mature
– Comfortable with discipline and long separations
– Ready for a structured career with global exposure
– Willing to work hard, study, and grow gradually
Then yes, the Merchant Navy is a brilliant career — one that offers early financial freedom, travel, and immense personal growth.
As parents, your role is to guide, research, and support, not push them blindly. With the right mindset and preparation, your child can not only survive — but truly thrive — in the Merchant Navy.
