From an old heritage to the age of ultra-modern cargo and container ships today’s commercial shipping fleets span the globe, using the latest technologies and transporting over 95% of the world’s trade.
Specially designed vessels that support the oil and gas industries and colossal bulk carriers made for ore, grain and coal. And of course, world-class cruise liners and large commercial yachts. Collectively, they make up the commercial shipping industry. You’ll probably know it as the Merchant Navy. And it could be your passage to qualifications, technical skills and a lifelong career filled with adventure.
What types of ships are in the Merchant Navy?
Careers at Sea is part of the Merchant Navy Training Board (MNTB), which in turn sits within the UK Chamber of Shipping.
The MNTB works right across the UK to champion maritime education, training and skills. All studies at a maritime college or university will be based on a framework set by the MNTB.
Who we work with
Careers at Sea is proud to partner with a range of groups that support Merchant Navy training and commercial shipping activities. They’re valuable sources of information about the shipping industry and insights into maritime jobs.
Need information on medical and eyesight tests? The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) should be your first point of call, as they’re the regulatory body for seafarer certification.
Nautilus International is the trade union representing maritime industry professionals – from Merchant Navy Masters and Officers to Cadets. They advise, connect, support and train people at every stage of their career at sea. Through the JW Slater Fund, they can also help with further training.
Like Nautilus International, the RMT (National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers)is a trade union. They’ve got over 80,000 members right across the transport sector, including the shipping industry. From information on pensions to legal advice, they offer all sorts of services.
Think of the UK Chamber of Shipping as the voice of merchant shipping. Speaking for their members in Britain and overseas – including the MNTB – they’re the industry trade body. And they work tirelessly to support and promote member interests across the world. To hear more about their work, visit the UK Chamber of Shipping website.
Beyond the Sea
There are many opportunities in the maritime industry based ashore in the UK. Shipping supports 650,000 jobs across the UK and directly contributes £6.6bn to the economy, meaning that when experienced seafarers are ready to come ashore, there are a variety of related roles in the maritime industry.
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