When you’re in maritime college, everything seems exciting, smart uniforms, simulators, group photos, hanging out with batchmates. But once you join a real ship, you enter a different world altogether.
Life at sea is not just a career. It’s a test of your mindset, patience, and responsibility.
Let me break down the key differences so cadets can mentally prepare for the transition.
- College is Controlled. Ship is Real.
In college, everything is pre-planned: class timings, syllabus, assignments, even drill timings.
Onboard a ship, anything can happen anytime, cargo operations, weather changes, port calls, inspections. You’ll face real-world pressure.
Cadet Tip: Be flexible. Learn to adapt quickly without complaining.
- Theory vs. Practical
In college, you learn how things should be done. Onboard, you see how they are actually done.
For example, college may teach mooring theory in 2 hours, but on ship, you’ll realise it’s a high-risk operation involving coordination, planning, and timing.
Cadet Tip: Observe every operation closely. Ask why, not just how.
- Timetable vs. Watchkeeping
College life has fixed classes. Ship life runs 24×7. You might be on watch at 0000 hrs, and back again at 1200.
Your body clock changes. You learn to manage sleep, food, and work on a rotational basis.
Cadet Tip: Start building your stamina and time management skills.
- Friendly Seniors vs. Tough Officers
In college, seniors guide you. On ship, officers expect you to follow orders, sometimes without much explanation.
They’re not being rude, they’re focused on safety, efficiency, and time. Don’t take it personally.
Cadet Tip: Be respectful, alert, and ready to learn. Don’t expect to be spoon-fed.
- Canteen Life vs. Ship’s Mess
You might miss hostel canteen food! On ship, food depends on the cook, ship stores, and culture of the crew.
No swiggy, no samosas, no chai breaks. But you’ll get used to it.
Cadet Tip: Be open to different cuisines. Carry your favourite snacks onboard.
- Fun with Friends vs. Alone Time
College means friends 24/7. On ship, you may be the only cadet or one of two.
You’ll learn to enjoy your own company. Internet is limited. Celebrations are simple.
Cadet Tip: Carry books, movies, music. Stay mentally strong.
7.Assignments vs. Responsibilities
In college, deadlines mean marks. Onboard, tasks mean real outcomes.
If you forget to close a valve or update a logbook, it could cause damage or lead to an audit observation.
Cadet Tip: Treat even small jobs seriously. Build good habits from day one.
Final Thoughts
College teaches you the foundation. Ship teaches you reality.
Both are important, but never assume college life has prepared you fully for sea life.
When you step onboard, be humble, stay alert, and keep learning.
That’s what will make you a good officer tomorrow.
Life at sea is challenging, but if you go with the right mindset, it can be the most fulfilling journey of your life
