Our Blog
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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…
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👌 What to Do If You Fail the Pre-employment Medical Exam
Pre-Employment Medical Examinations (PEME) are a mandatory part of every seafarer’s career. They are designed to assess if you’re physically and mentally fit to work onboard ships- especially under the demanding conditions of maritime life. But failing a PEME can be a major setback, whether you’re a cadet on your first contract or a senior…
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🌊 Why Captains Go Down With Their Ships: Duty, Tradition, and Law
The phrase “the captain goes down with the ship” is deeply woven into maritime culture. But is it just an old-fashioned ideal or a legal expectation? This tradition gained legendary status after the RMS Titanic disaster in 1912, where Captain Edward J. Smith was last seen on the bridge before the ship disappeared into the…
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🤯 False Myths About Seafarers That People Actually Believe
From social media posts of exotic ports to stories shared in seaside towns, life at sea often looks glamorous. Many believe seafarers are wealthy, carefree, and constantly on vacation. But these assumptions are far from the truth. In reality, maritime life demands hard work, discipline, and sacrifice- much of it unseen by those ashore. Misconceptions…