Our Blog
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💸 How Much Do Seafarers Really Earn? Salary Guide for International Ships
Seafaring remains one of the most lucrative careers in the world- and for good reason. While land-based workers often dream of six-figure incomes, many seafarers earn that in a matter of months, depending on vessel type, rank, and company. Whether you’re a cadet or a seasoned Master Mariner, understanding your salary benchmark is essential. This…
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What is MISMO or the MARINA Integrated Seafarers Management Online System?
The Maritime Industry Authority is rolling out its latest online appointment system called MISMO or the MARINA Integrated Seafarers Management Online system. It will replace the current SCS but packs a better, faster, and more responsive feature. The aim of MISMO is to eradicate the usage of BLUE FORM for the application of SIRB, theoretical…
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🚢 A Seawoman’s Journey: From Cadet to Second Officer on a Chemical
In an industry long dominated by men, Hiroka Suzuki stands out as one of Japan’s pioneering female deck officers. Now serving as a Second Officer on an ocean-going chemical tanker, she shares her journey, challenges, and advice for aspiring seafarers- especially women aiming to break barriers in the maritime world. Background and Early Career Hiroka…
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Tanker COP Requirements for BTOCT, BTLGT, ATOT, ATCT, & ATLGT
MARINA’s COP requirements for mandatory training courses with their corresponding certificates of proficiency are now fully implemented. This includes our tanker COP requirements after the 2010 Manila Amendments. This is in accordance with Chapter V of the STCW Convention, 1978, as amended. For the industry to be in compliance, MARINA issued requirements for COP on these…
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List of MARINA-Accredited Maritime Training Centers in Manila 2024
Due to the Manila 2010 Amendments, MARINA is now very strict with accrediting maritime training centers for seafarers. Before, you can simply set up a class with an instructor and call it a training center. It’s a different story today. I have compiled a list of MARINA-approved training centers as of 31st January 2024. According…
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MARINA COP Requirements for BT, PSCRB, PFRB, AFF, MEFA, MECA SSO, SDSD, II/4, II/5, III/4, and III/5
MARINA issued the latest requirements for our Certificate of Proficiency or COP in their STCW Circular 2018-05. As our governing authority, the Maritime Industry Authority established these guidelines on the proper issuance and revalidation of our certificates. BT, PSCRB, PFRB, MEFA, MECA, AFF SSO, and SDSD are discussed here. The newly introduced II/4, II/5, III/4,…
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MARINA COP for Basic Training (BT COP): All You Need To Know
If you want to work in tankers, cruise ships, cargo vessels, or any type of vessel, BT with COP is one of your tickets. Basic Training (BT) is one of the fundamental certificates needed for every person who wants to work on ships. It was formerly known as SOLAS Training or Basic Safety Training and Instruction (BSTI).…
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🏆 Which Ship Type Is Best: Tanker, Cruise Ship, or Bulk Carrier?
Choosing the best type of ship to work on isn’t easy- and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Whether you prefer tankers, bulk carriers, or cruise ships depends on your career goals, priorities, and even personal preferences. Some seafarers prioritize safety and job security. Others look at salary, work-life balance, or even the prestige of the vessel.…
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📶 Why “My Three” Internet SIM Card is the Best for Seafarers
For most seafarers, stepping into port means one thing- finding an internet connection. Forget the outdated myths about what sailors look for ashore. In today’s maritime world, connectivity is the real shore leave priority. Whether you’re at anchorage for days or alongside for just a few hours, having reliable internet lets you stay connected with…
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Interesting Trivia About Your Schengen Visa That You Should Know
Since seafarers travel anywhere around the world, there’s a pretty good chance that you will visit European ports in your career. Europe is a dream place to travel for many people and we seafarers are actually privileged to visit there in and out either signing off or joining our ship. Countries in Europe have also…