- What should I carry when joining the ship for the first time?
Answer:
Carry all your valid documents – passport, CDC, INDOS, STCW certificates, joining letter, medical fitness, and company contact details.
Also bring personal items – enough clothes, toiletries, footwear, undergarments, shaving kit, chargers, few formal clothes for inspections or port, and maybe snacks or instant food for comfort.
- What happens after I land at the airport?
Answer:
Normally, a local agent or company representative will be there to receive you. If not, you will get instructions in your joining mail. Follow those carefully. Keep company contact numbers saved. Carry some local currency in case of emergency.
- How will I be treated on board as a fresher?
Answer:
You will be respected, but remember – you are here to learn and assist, not to question or argue. Work hard, stay humble, and show eagerness to learn. Most seniors will help you if they see your sincerity.
- Will I get a separate cabin or will I share it?
Answer:
As a cadet or trainee rating, usually you’ll have to share a cabin with another cadet or junior rating. But it depends on the ship. Officers usually have single cabins. Still, your basic needs like bed, storage, and toilet will be provided.
- What is the daily routine like on board?
Answer:
Every ship has its own routine, but mostly:
Work hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (with lunch break)
Watchkeeping: For deck cadets, you may do watch from 0800–1200 and 2000–0000
Evening time is often free unless you are on duty.
Saturdays are half-day. Sundays are normally rest, unless in port or emergency.
- What if I don’t understand the orders in English?
Answer:
Always clarify. Never guess or pretend. Politely ask,
> “Sir, I did not understand. Can you please explain again?”
No one will get angry if you are honest and willing to learn.
- What happens if I make a mistake? Will I get shouted at?
Answer:
Everyone makes mistakes. But repeating the same mistake or showing a careless attitude is not accepted. If you make a mistake, inform immediately, don’t hide it. Seniors respect honesty more than perfection.
- Can I use mobile phones onboard?
Answer:
Yes, but with rules.
On bridge and engine room, mobiles are not allowed during work.
During your off time, you can use them in your cabin.
Some ships have Wi-Fi or internet cards, others have SIMs provided in port. Don’t expect full-time network.
- What are the safety drills and how should I prepare?
Answer:
Drills happen weekly; like fire drill, abandon ship, man overboard, etc.
As a fresher, your role will be written on the muster list. Learn your duty; e.g., bring fireman suit, help in lifeboat, etc. Ask your officer to explain. Always take drills seriously. These are not for show – they can save your life one day.
- Can I eat vegetarian or special diet food onboard?
Answer:
Yes, mostly. Inform the cook or chief steward when you join. Most cooks on international ships prepare veg and non-veg options. But special items like Jain food or halal might not be available unless you request in advance.
- What if I fall sick or get injured on board?
Answer:
Inform your immediate senior or officer. You will be given medical attention onboard – medicines are available. If serious, the Captain will arrange shore medical treatment through agent/doctor in port.
- What documents should I update regularly on board?
Answer:
As a cadet or trainee rating, keep:
Training Record Book
Daily Work Diary
Record of drills attended
Your passport and CDC entries updated by Master at sea and agent in port
Keep soft copies of your certificates also, in case originals get damaged.
- Can I ask questions to senior officers if I’m curious?
Answer:
Of course! But ask at the right time, not during emergency or mooring. When things are calm, say:
> “Sir, can I ask one doubt about the radar / fire pump / mooring winch?”
Officers love to teach those who show interest and respect.
- What is the most important thing to remember as a fresher?
Answer:
One word – Attitude.
Even if your skills are weak, a positive, hardworking, and respectful attitude will earn you support, learning, and future promotion.
- Can I take photos and videos onboard?
Answer:
Only in non-sensitive areas, and with permission.
Never take pictures of control rooms, bridge equipment, military ports, cargo operations, or crew without consent.
Many companies have strict policies breaking this can lead to termination
