I had always aspired to take up a career in the transport sector throughout my childhood, with vast interests in the maritime and aviation industries. Whilst I grew up living by the sea on the south-east coast, it wasn’t until I noticed the abundance of merchant vessels at UK anchorages during the pandemic that I actually went on to discover Cadetship opportunities. After talking to cadets and lecturers at open days as well as seeking advice from ‘Careers at Sea’, I came to the realisation that pursuing a career as a Deck Officer would encompass the majority of my interests whilst also allowing me to travel as part of my job. 

I was inspired to join the cruise sector in particular after being lucky enough to speak with Deck Officers during family trips onboard. What quickly became apparent to me was my fascination with such a large team of multi-national crew working in sync to deliver a common goal, a team that I am now proud to have been a part of myself. I found the cruise sector’s ability to develop at pace, adapting to both maritime and customer expectations truly remarkable making it the resilient and growing industry that I hoped to be a part of.

I am currently in Phase 3 of my Deck Officer Cadetship sponsored by Princess Cruises. I am studying the BSc (Hons) degree route in Nautical Science at Warsash Maritime School in Southampton.

When looking back on the past three phases completed to date, I would say that I have thoroughly enjoyed the course. The blend of academic studies, short courses and sea time makes the cadetship incredibly varied and whilst acquiring such a significant level of knowledge in a short period of time may seem somewhat intense, the first sea phase is really when I could begin to see the fruits of my labour. Putting what I had studied in class into practise onboard my first ship was highly rewarding and encouraged me to question and learn even more from the team onboard. 

It has also been eye-opening during the college phases to understand more about the work taking place in the wider maritime industry, including the potential shoreside opportunities available for later in my career.

Completing my first sea phase practically confirmed that this was the job for me. It was a fantastic feeling to be welcomed into a crew of over 50 nationalities and begin to understand what ‘life at sea’ was really all about. I began by working with the Bosun’s team of Deck Crew completing a variety of maintenance tasks as well as inspections of Fire-Fighting Equipment (FFE) and Life Saving Appliances (LSA). These tasks not only aided me to learn the ship’s layout but also kickstarted the tasks in my Training Record Book. I felt highly supported with my training onboard and was given time to complete my academic studies in addition to Bridge watch-keeping where I would understudy the Deck Officers. Alongside my regular duties, I thoroughly enjoyed getting involved in the crew drills that were taking place allowing me to observe the shipboard emergency response procedures. I look forward to joining my next ship for Phase 4 of the Cadetship.

In my view, teamwork is without doubt one of, if not the most important skill for anyone pursuing a career at sea but particularly as an Officer Cadet. Having the ability to integrate into teams is vital for all elements of the training. This may be as part of the Bridge Team or Deck Crew onboard, or even working towards studies with fellow cadets during college phases where studying together really is an effective tool.

First and foremost, I would encourage anyone even slightly considering taking up a career at sea to attend an open day or event where there will likely be the opportunity to speak with lecturers and sponsoring company representatives but most importantly, current cadets themselves. In my opinion, this is the best way to gain a true insight of the journey that you may be about to embark on which helped me greatly when I was researching. 

When onboard, my advice would be to show willingness to learn at any opportunity. This may be by taking part in additional trainings, drills or even maintenance as these can really enhance the experience. Always have your ‘ear to the deck’ and make the most of everything offered to you, both onboard and ashore!