We suggest you join the merchant navy as an officer only, but if you lack the resources or are completely opposed to the idea, the only alternative is the navigating officer qualification.
What is the navigating officer qualification course?
By opting for a navigating officer qualification course, a trade student can join the merchant navy and become part of the navigating staff on board.
Navigating officers are skilled workers who support officers in performing various duties on board. There are two types of navigating officers, depending on the department they join: deck officers and engine officers.
What is the navigating officer qualification course in the merchant navy?
The navigating officer qualification is a six-month pre-sea training course that trade students can take to join the merchant navy. In this course, candidates receive training for both the deck and the engine room. Depending on the company’s demand, they may be employed in one of the two departments. The General Navigation (GP) Qualification course is a course approved by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGSN) that trains students in maintenance, machinery operation, seamanship, and more.
The course also includes physical training, such as mast climbing, swimming, firefighting drills, and workshop training. Upon completion of the course, students must pass external examinations conducted by the Seafarers’ Examination Board (BES), under the Directorate General of Shipping (DGSN). Upon passing the exam, candidates receive the Indian CDC, after which they are eligible to sail.
Best General Navigation Qualification Schools in India
- T.S. Rahaman
- NUSI Maritime Academy Goa
- Great Eastern Institute of Maritime Studies
Entering the Merchant Navy with commercial experience is entirely possible, although the path is a little different than for those with scientific degrees.
1. GP Qualification Course
This is the most common route for commercial students.
Requirements: The minimum grade is passing the 10th grade with at least 40% in English.
Duration: 6 months of pre-sea training.
Roles: You will start as a deckhand or engineer (support crew) member, assisting officers on board.
Career Development: With additional experience and exams, you can advance through the ranks, although becoming an officer through this route requires time and dedication.
2. CCMC (Certified Course in Marine Catering)
If you are interested in the hospitality industry:
Requirements: Pass the 10th or 12th grade with a 40% overall grade and a 40% in English.
Duration: 6 months.
Roles: Join as a cook or waiter on ships.
Career Development: With experience, you can become a head chef or head caterer.
3. Repeat Year 12 with Science (PCM)
If you’re aiming for officer positions:
Why: Officer positions require Physics, Chemistry, and Maths.
Option: After repeating Year 12 with PCM, you can take the IMU CET and study:
Diploma in Nautical Science
Bachelor of Nautical Science
Marine Engineering Technology
This option opens the door to higher salaries, faster promotions, and less physically demanding positions.
Tip: If you choose the GP or CCMC Qualification option, try to secure sponsorship from a shipping company before enrolling at university. This increases your chances of securing a place after training.