What is Merchant Navy?
The Merchant Navy is a vital component of the global shipping industry, responsible for transporting goods, people, and equipment across the world’s seas and oceans. It is a commercial fleet of ships that operates under the flag of a particular country, carrying cargo and passengers to various destinations around the world. In this blog, we will discuss the merchant navy in detail, including its history, types of ships, training requirements, and career opportunities.
History of the Merchant Navy
The history of the merchant navy can be traced back to the 16th century when the Portuguese and the Spanish explorers started exploring new trade routes to Asia and America. With the advent of steam power in the 19th century, the merchant navy witnessed a significant transformation in its operations, which resulted in a more efficient and faster transportation of goods and people.
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Types of Merchant Navy
The merchant navy is an essential part of the global shipping industry and is responsible for transporting goods and people across the oceans. It consists of various departments and types of ships that operate in the commercial marine transportation industry. In this blog, we will discuss the different types of the merchant navy, including their various departments and types of ships, including cruise ships and tugs.
Tankers
Tankers – Tankers are designed to transport liquids in bulk, such as crude oil, petroleum products, and chemicals. There are different types of tankers, such as crude oil tankers, product tankers, chemical tankers, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers. Tankers have specialized equipment to load and discharge their cargo safely and efficiently.
Container Ships
Container ships transport cargo in standardized containers, making it easier to load, unload, and transfer the cargo between different modes of transportation. These ships can carry thousands of containers stacked on their decks, with specialized cranes used to move the containers on and off the ship.
Cruise Ships
Cruise ships are passenger vessels that transport people on vacation or holiday. They are equipped with luxurious amenities such as restaurants, bars, swimming pools, and entertainment venues, making them a popular choice for leisure travellers.
Ro-Ro Ships
Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) ships are designed to transport vehicles, heavy equipment, and other cargo that can be driven or towed onto the ship. These ships have large cargo decks and ramps for easy loading and unloading.
Bulk Carriers
Bulk carriers transport dry cargo, such as grain, coal, iron ore, and other raw materials. They come in different sizes and shapes, with some vessels equipped with specialized equipment to handle specific types of cargo.
Tugs
Tugs are small and powerful vessels used for towing larger vessels or moving them around in ports and harbours. They are also used for various other tasks, such as assisting with mooring operations or firefighting.
Departments of Merchant Navy
Deck Department
The deck department is responsible for the navigation, safety, and maintenance of the ship's exterior. The department is led by the captain and includes officers such as the chief officer, second officer, and third officer, as well as other crew members such as able seamen and ordinary seamen. The deck department is responsible for navigating the ship, maintaining the ship's equipment, cargo handling, and ensuring the safety of the crew and the ship.
Engine Department
The engine department is responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing the ship's engines, generators, and other machinery. The department is led by the chief engineer and includes the second engineer, third engineer, and other engine room crew members. The engine department is responsible for ensuring that the ship's engines are running smoothly and efficiently, and for responding to any technical issues that may arise.
Rating Department
The rating department is responsible for providing support to the deck and engine departments. This department includes crew members such as able seamen, ordinary seamen, and the chief cook. The able seamen and ordinary seamen assist with cargo handling, cleaning, and maintenance of the ship, while the chief cook is responsible for preparing meals for the crew.
Why choose Merchant Navy as a career
Merchant Navy is a challenging and rewarding career option for those who love adventure, the open sea, and the prospect of travelling around the world while earning a good salary. The Merchant Navy is the backbone of international trade, as it carries about 90% of the world’s goods. In this blog, we will discuss the reasons why choosing Merchant Navy as a career can be a great decision.
High Salary and Perks:
One of the primary reasons to choose the Merchant Navy as a career is the high salary and perks that come with it. The salaries in Merchant Navy are significantly higher than those in other industries. As per industry standards, an entry-level officer can earn up to INR 50,000-60,000 per month, which can go up to INR 7,00,000-8,00,000 for senior-level officers. Moreover, the job offers various perks, such as free food, accommodation, and travel.
Global Exposure:
Working in Merchant Navy provides you with the opportunity to travel around the world and experience different cultures. You get to visit different ports and countries, meet new people, and explore different places. This experience not only broadens your horizons but also helps you become a better-rounded individual.
Career Growth:
Merchant Navy offers excellent career growth opportunities. You can start as a deck officer or an engineer and work your way up to become a captain or a chief engineer. Moreover, the job offers excellent prospects for promotion, as there is always a demand for skilled and experienced professionals.
Adventurous Lifestyle:
The Merchant Navy offers an adventurous lifestyle that is not found in any other industry. The job is challenging and requires you to work in adverse weather conditions and face unpredictable situations. The thrill of facing and overcoming these challenges can be incredibly rewarding.
Job Security:
Merchant Navy is a highly secure profession. The demand for seafarers is always high, and the industry is growing rapidly. Moreover, once you have completed your training, you can work for different shipping companies or even switch to a shore-based job if you wish to.
Tax Exemption
Merchant navy is one of the most rewarding career options, offering lucrative salary packages and tax-free income and normally we know if we do 183 days on board a ship in a financial year, we get tax exemption i.e. seafarers are called NRI.
Suppose you are a Chief Engineer and you are earning 8 lakhs rupees per month and if you sail for 6 months you earn 48 lakhs now compare this with MNC culture where you have to pay taxes as well to earn an amount of 70 lakhs your salary should be 1 crore.
Adventurous Life
No two days on the ship are the same every day is a new challenge onboard ship. Every day some new thing will happen on board.
For example today we have to go on this port, today the time zone has been changed, Pilotage will be tomorrow, or we have to pick the anchor immediately. So, there is no fixed time and no fixed schedule. Every day is different.
Challenges keep on coming and going the only thing constant is your struggle. The only thing constant is you don’t give up so if you want an adventurous life merchant navy is for you.
How many courses are there in the Merchant Navy
Merchant navy is a field that involves the transportation of goods and passengers via sea. It is an essential part of international trade and offers various career opportunities for individuals who are passionate about marine life. Merchant navy courses provide training and certification for different positions on ships, including deck officers, marine engineers, ratings, and electro-technical officers. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the popular courses in merchant navy, including DNS, GME, Btech Marine, GP rating, and ETO.
Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS):
DNS is a 1-year course that is designed for individuals who want to become deck officers. The course covers topics such as navigation, cargo handling, ship stability, and safety procedures. DNS is the first step towards becoming a deck officer, and after completion of the course, candidates can join a ship as a trainee officer.
Graduate Marine Engineering (GME):
GME is a 1-year course that is designed for individuals who want to become marine engineers. The course covers topics such as marine engines, electrical systems, and safety procedures. After completion of the course, candidates can join a ship as a trainee marine engineer.
Bachelor of Technology in Marine Engineering (Btech Marine):
Btech Marine is a 4-year course that is designed for individuals who want to become marine engineers. The course covers topics such as marine engines, ship design, electrical systems, and safety procedures. After completion of the course, candidates can join a ship as a junior engineer.
General Purpose Rating (GP Rating):
GP Rating is a 6-month course that is designed for individuals who want to work as ratings on ships. The course covers topics such as personal safety and social responsibilities, fire prevention and firefighting, and proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats. After completion of the course, candidates can join a ship as a deck rating or engine rating.
Electro-Technical Officer (ETO):
ETO is a 6-month course that is designed for individuals who want to work as electro-technical officers on ships. The course covers topics such as electrical systems, automation, and safety procedures. After completion of the course, candidates can join a ship as an ETO.
Merchant Navy Course Eligibility & Criteria
The Merchant Navy is a vital part of the global shipping industry and offers attractive career opportunities for those who love the sea. To join the Merchant Navy, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria, including age requirements, and complete specific courses. In this blog, we will discuss the age criteria and course requirements for five popular courses in the Merchant Navy.
DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science) Course:
Eligibility Criteria: Candidates must have passed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) with at least 60% marks. English should be one of the subjects in 10+2 with at least 50% in 10th or 12th. The candidate should be between 17 to 25 years of age.
Course Duration: The DNS course is a one-year course.
GME (Graduate Marine Engineering) Course:
Eligibility Criteria: Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering/ Naval Architecture with at least 50% marks. English should be one of the subjects in the degree. The candidate should be between 21 to 28 years of age.
Course Duration: The GME course is a one-year course.
B.Tech Marine Engineering Course:
Eligibility Criteria: Candidates must have passed 10+2 with PCM with at least 60% marks. English should be one of the subjects in 10+2. The candidate should be between 17 to 25 years of age.
Course Duration: The B.Tech Marine Engineering course is a four-year course.
ETO (Electro-Technical Officer) Course:
Eligibility Criteria: Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering/ Electronics Engineering/ Electrical and Electronics Engineering with at least 60% marks. English should be one of the subjects in the degree. The candidate should be between 22 to 35 years of age.
Course Duration: The ETO course is a four-month course.
GP Rating Course:
Eligibility Criteria: Candidates must have passed 10th standard with at least 40% marks. English should be one of the subjects in 10th standard. The candidate should be between 17.5 to 25 years of age.
Course Duration: The GP Rating course is a six-month course.
In addition to the above eligibility criteria, candidates must also meet certain medical and physical fitness standards. They must have a valid passport and be willing to travel for long periods of time. Candidates must also pass a written test, followed by a physical fitness test and a medical examination.
Merchant Navy Courses
GP Rating
Are you considering a career in the merchant navy as a GP rating? Then this course is for you. We’ll cover all the details you need to know about GP rating, including eligibility criteria, course duration, and syllabus. You’ll also learn about the top 3 colleges that offer GP rating courses in India.
Once you’ve completed the course, you’ll be eager to know about the salary and promotion opportunities that come with a career in this field. We’ll dive into the career prospects for GP ratings, including how to become an officer after completing your GP rating course and how to become a 4th engineer from a GP rating.
Unfortunately, fraud is not unheard of in the industry, but we’ll give you tips on how to avoid these scams, frauds and ensure that you get the education and career opportunities you deserve.
In addition to the GP rating, we’ll also guide you through the psychometric test required for this field, as well as how to improve your communication skills to increase your chances of success.
You may be wondering how to fund your GP rating course. We’ll provide insights on how to get an education loan in India and other options available to you.
Hear the true story of someone who became a 4th engineer from GP rating and gain valuable insights into the roles and responsibilities of GP ratings on a ship, including oiler, fitter, AB, OS, and bosun.
Finally, we’ll provide you with tips and tricks to get 100% assured placement in GP rating, as well as information on how to join the merchant navy after passing ITI and the age limit for entering this field.
Upon completion of this course, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the GP rating course, including eligibility, syllabus, and career opportunities. You will also have the necessary skills and knowledge to embark on a successful career as a GP rating in the merchant navy.
GME
Welcome to our comprehensive Graduate Marine Engineering (GME) course, designed to equip you with everything you need to know to kickstart a successful career as a Marine Engineer in the Merchant Navy. Our course covers all aspects of the GME program, from eligibility criteria to the syllabus and exam preparation. You’ll learn about the common mistakes made by GME aspirants, strategies to overcome them, and tips to ace the GME sponsorship interview.
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We’ll guide you in choosing the best college for the GME course in India in 2023, as well as provide valuable insights on the Graduate Marine Engineering Interview and common mistakes to avoid. Our Dreamers Package is tailored to help you clear the GME exam, and we also offer education loan guidance to make financing your education easier.
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Communication skills are essential for a career in the Merchant Navy, and our course includes tips on improving your communication skills and psychometric test questions for the Merchant Navy. We’ll also share secrets on merchant navy interview guidance and mock interviews of students selected in Anglo-Eastern, Great Eastern, IMS Goa, K-Line, and Synergy to help you prepare effectively.
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By the end of this course, you’ll have the knowledge and skills needed to clear the GME exam, ace the sponsorship interview, and embark on a successful career as a Graduate Marine Engineer in the Merchant Navy.
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Achievers Package
The Achievers Package is a comprehensive course designed for students pursuing Graduate Marine Engineering or B.Tech Marine Engineering, who aspire to build a successful career in the Merchant Navy. This package aims to address the common problems faced by students during their initial years in the industry, such as the lack of clear explanations to the WHY’s behind the machinery and confusing answers from seniors.
With detailed videos on Purifiers, Fresh Water Generators, Incinerators, Main Engines, and Generators, this package covers all essential aspects of marine engineering. The explanations provided in the package are designed to stay in the student’s mind for years, making it easier to understand and apply the knowledge in practical scenarios.
Additionally, having one common teacher ensures that there is no confusion or conflicting information. Whether you’re an aspiring GME student, a B.Tech Marine Engineering student, or a Merchant Navy professional, the Achievers Package is an excellent resource that can help you achieve your career goals.
With hard work and a willingness to learn, this package can accelerate your path towards success in the maritime industry.
Electrical Package
The Electrical Package is a comprehensive course that covers all the basic electrical concepts necessary for a successful career in the maritime industry. Whether you are an aspiring ETO or pursuing Graduate Marine Engineering or B. Tech Marine Engineering, this package is designed to help you build a strong foundation in electrical engineering.
The content is explained by Chief Engineer Aurvin Sir in simple language, making it easy to understand and apply in practical scenarios. The package is suitable for anyone who wants to improve their basic electrical fundamentals and gain respect on the ship. It also helps in clearing the Shipping company’s interviews, which is an essential aspect of starting a career in the Merchant Navy.
With this package, you can learn the basics of electrical engineering and excel in your career. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to strengthen your knowledge and skills in electrical engineering. Remember, with hard work and a willingness to learn, the Electrical Package can help you achieve your goals in the maritime industry.
Dreamers Package
The Dreamers Package is an essential course for students pursuing Graduate Marine Engineering or B.Tech Marine Engineering, who aspire to build a successful career in the Merchant Navy. This package aims to improve the basic concepts of marine engineering, which is often a loophole in our education system.
With the focus on the WHY behind every component and system on a ship, this package helps students understand the correct way of studying and apply the knowledge gained in their college studies or professional career. The package is also helpful for engineers at any stage, including Third and Fourth Engineers looking to improve their basic concepts. Whether you’re an aspiring GME student, currently studying in a GME college, about to join a ship, or have already sailed, this package is worth investing in.
With the emphasis on improving the fundamental concepts of marine engineering, this package is an excellent resource that can help students excel in their academic and professional pursuits in the Merchant Navy.
Start learning today and take the first step towards building a successful career in the maritime industry.
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Visionary Package
The Visionary Package is a comprehensive course designed to provide a deep understanding of the various aspects of marine engineering for students pursuing Graduate Marine Engineering or B.Tech Marine Engineering, with a keen interest in building a successful career in the Merchant Navy. This package is an excellent resource that offers a step-by-step learning experience, starting with the basics and advancing to more complex concepts, with practical examples.
The package includes tutorials by Chief Engineer Praneet Mehta, who explains each concept in detail, providing the WHY behind every component and system on a ship. He also takes students on a live engine room round, providing a hands-on experience of various ship parts, systems, and operations. To enhance the learning experience, animated videos are included to help students visualize the working of different ship parts and their interconnections.
The knowledge gained from this course will not only help students perform better in their college studies but also in their professional career in the Merchant Navy. The Visionary Package equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle the challenges of working on a ship, including understanding shipboard systems, machinery, and equipment, performing maintenance and repair tasks, and ensuring the safety of the vessel and its crew.
Overall, the Visionary Package is an immersive and engaging learning experience that provides a strong foundation in the concepts and practical aspects of marine engineering, empowering students to excel in their academic and professional pursuits in the Merchant Navy.
Medical Package
Are you interested in joining the merchant navy? Then, you must be aware that medical fitness is one of the most crucial requirements for this profession. To help you prepare, we offer a comprehensive course that covers all the medical requirements for joining the merchant navy.
Our course, “How to Find Dg Shipping Approved Doctor” provides detailed information about the various physical and medical tests that are carried out before joining the merchant navy. We also discuss the reasons why these tests are essential and the common mistakes people make before taking them.
The course will provide you with a list of physical and medical tests carried out before joining the merchant navy. We will also cover the eyesight requirements, height and weight limitations, and teeth requirements that you need to meet to be eligible for joining the merchant navy.
We will discuss different medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma, and thyroid, and the restrictions that apply to each. You will learn about various skin diseases, ear diseases, and bone problems and how they are evaluated during medical tests.
Furthermore, we will address common questions like if self-harm scars or irritative bowel syndrome can prevent you from joining the merchant navy. We will also discuss the limitations of blood pressure at different ages.
This course will also cover the cost of merchant navy medical and provide information about the treadmill test. If you have any doubts about keyhole surgery, tuberculous, epilepsy, vertigo, or varicose veins, our course will provide you with the answers.
We understand the importance of being medically fit for joining the merchant navy, and our course is designed to help you prepare for the medical examination. Join our course to be fully informed and prepared for the journey ahead.
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IMUCET Package
Are you interested in pursuing a career in the maritime industry? Then the IMU CET exam is a crucial step towards achieving your goals. This course will cover all the essentials you need to know about IMU CET, including its eligibility criteria, syllabus, and exam pattern. You’ll learn effective ways to prepare for the exam, as well as some tips and tricks for clearing it with ease.
In addition to IMU CET, you’ll also gain valuable insights into other important aspects of a career in the maritime industry, such as the DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science) course and the BSc Nautical Science course. You’ll compare the pros and cons of each and determine which one is the best fit for you.
Girls who are interested in joining the merchant navy will find answers to their questions, such as whether it’s possible or not. You’ll also learn how to join the merchant navy with less than 60% in PCM and whether a commerce student can join as an officer.
Moreover, you’ll explore how to get an education loan for your merchant navy course in India and gain guidance on how to clear the psychometric test for this field. If you have any doubts about the medical requirements for a career in the merchant navy, we’ll clear those up as well.
Finally, we’ll provide some valuable insight into what it takes to ace a mock interview for this industry, with examples of students who were selected by some of the top companies in the field, including Anglo-Eastern, Torm Tankers, Scorpio, MSC, and Fleet.
By the end of this course, you’ll have all the knowledge and skills you need to kickstart your career in the maritime industry and join the ranks of successful merchant navy professionals.
2.Looking to pursue a career in the maritime industry? Then this course is the perfect guide for you! From the basics to advanced topics, we cover everything you need to know to kickstart your career in the merchant navy.
Firstly, we’ll cover the most essential topic – IMU CET. You’ll learn about the exam’s eligibility criteria, syllabus, and pattern, and how to prepare for it effectively. We’ll also share some tips and tricks to help you clear the IMU CET exam easily in just one go.
Next, we’ll dive into the DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science) course, including how to join it and its full details. We’ll also discuss the BSc Nautical Science course, and help you decide which one is better suited for you.
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Our Merchant Navy Top Selling Course
Skill Required for Merchant Navy
Merchant navy is a challenging and rewarding career option that involves working on ships and transporting goods and people across the world’s oceans. It is a dynamic and exciting field that offers many opportunities for growth and advancement. However, working on a ship requires a unique set of skills and qualifications. In this blog, we will discuss the skill set required for a career in the merchant navy.
Physical Fitness
Working on a ship can be physically demanding, and seafarers must be in excellent physical condition to carry out their duties. They should be able to endure long periods at sea and be prepared for all types of weather conditions. They must have good eyesight, hearing, and balance, as well as the ability to climb ladders, lift heavy objects, and work in cramped spaces.
Technical Knowledge
A career in the merchant navy requires technical knowledge and expertise. Seafarers must have a thorough understanding of the ship’s mechanics, navigation, and safety procedures. They must be able to operate and maintain various types of equipment, including engines, electrical systems, and communication devices.
Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial on board a ship, and seafarers must be able to communicate clearly and effectively with their crewmates, superiors, and other stakeholders. They must have a good command of the English language, as it is the language of international maritime communication.
Navigation Skills
Navigation is a critical skill for seafarers, and they must be proficient in using various navigational tools and technologies, including GPS, radar, and sonar. They must also have a thorough understanding of charts and be able to interpret weather reports and other data to plan their routes.
Problem-Solving Skills
Seafarers must be able to think quickly and creatively to solve problems that may arise while at sea. They must be able to remain calm under pressure and work collaboratively with their crewmates to find solutions to unexpected challenges.
Leadership Skills
As they gain experience, seafarers may be promoted to leadership positions, such as chief officer or captain. To succeed in these roles, they must have strong leadership skills, including the ability to delegate tasks, manage resources, and make difficult decisions under pressure.
Safety and Security Awareness
Seafarers must be aware of the risks associated with working on a ship and be able to follow strict safety and security procedures to ensure the well-being of themselves and their crewmates. They must be able to identify potential hazards and take appropriate measures to prevent accidents and injuries.
Time Management Skills
Seafarers must be able to manage their time effectively and prioritize their tasks to ensure that all duties are completed on time. They must be able to work independently and as part of a team to meet tight deadlines and ensure that the ship operates efficiently.
Cultural Awareness
Working on a ship often involves interacting with people from different cultures and backgrounds. Seafarers must have an understanding of cultural differences and be able to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
Adaptability
Working on a ship can be unpredictable, and seafarers must be able to adapt to changing circumstances and environments. They must be able to work in different locations, climates, and cultures, and be prepared for unexpected situations.
FAQ- Frequently Asked Questions in Merchant Navy
The Merchant Navy is a crucial part of global trade, transporting goods and raw materials across the world’s oceans. If you’re considering a career in the Merchant Navy, you may have some questions. Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the Merchant Navy:
The Merchant Navy consists of a variety of vessels, including cargo ships, tankers, container ships, passenger ships, and bulk carriers.
A Merchant Navy officer is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the ship, navigation, cargo handling, and managing the crew.
To join the Merchant Navy as an officer, you need to have a degree in nautical science or marine engineering. You can also join as a rating with a high school diploma.
To join the Merchant Navy as an officer, you need to have a degree in nautical science or marine engineering. You can also join as a rating with a high school diploma.
There is no upper age limit for joining the Merchant Navy, but the lower age limit is usually 16 to 18 years.
The training for Merchant Navy officers can take between three to four years, depending on the course and the country.
Merchant Navy officers earn a competitive salary, and it varies depending on the rank, experience, and employer.
Merchant Navy officers work in shifts, usually for eight to ten hours a day, and the schedule varies depending on the ship’s route and destination.
Yes, women can join the Merchant Navy as officers or ratings.
The benefits of joining the Merchant Navy include a competitive salary, opportunities for travel and adventure, and the chance to work in a dynamic and challenging environment.
You need to be in good health and pass a medical examination before joining the Merchant Navy.
The contracts for Merchant Navy officers can vary depending on the employer and the ship’s route, but they typically range from six months to 9 months.
Most ships do not allow family members to travel with crew members, but some employers may allow spouses and children to join for a limited time.
Merchant Navy officers can advance their careers through promotions to higher ranks, and they can also pursue further education and training to specialize in certain areas of the industry. The Merchant Navy offers a range of opportunities for career development and advancement.
Port regulations vary by country and port, but in general, crew members are allowed to leave the ship and explore the port during their free time. However, there may be certain restrictions or safety guidelines in place. It’s important to follow any rules or guidelines to ensure your safety and avoid any potential legal issues.