Is Merchant Navy a Viable Career Option?

After serving in the merchant navy and then transitioning to a career in IT, I believe I am well-equipped to answer the question about whether merchant navy is a viable career option or not. It is essential to delve into the realities of this profession to help you make a well-informed decision.

Understanding the Merchant Navy Profession

Many aspiring seafarers dream of a career at sea, but the reality of working in the merchant navy may differ from their expectations. Here are some key points to consider:

No Fixed Salary: Seafarers are compensated only for the time they spend serving on board ships. Once they return to shore, they do not receive any salary until their next assignment. For instance, if an officer earns 2 lakhs per month and serves for six months only, their annual earnings might be 6 lakhs, but their monthly income would be one-fourth of that, highlighting the irregular nature of the income. Menial Tasks for Experienced Professionals: Despite their expertise, officers are often asked to perform tasks like mopping floors, a role that is typically reserved for crew members. This is purely for the sake of reputation and does not reflect the true value of their qualifications. Limited Specific Skills: The skills that seafarers bring to the table—be it navigation, engineering, or mechanics—are not unique. Even non-graduate individuals who have completed a course for 8 months to a year can perform these tasks with equal efficiency, making their position less secure. Limited Access to Technology: Only a small percentage of ships have internet facilities, and the available bandwidth can be as low as a few MBs. This makes it challenging to stay in touch with family or friends back home. Limited Communication: Inexperience, especially in languages like English, can lead to issues where the primary communication language aboard these ships might not be the local language. This can make daily operations more challenging and create barriers for officers.

Considering the Long-Term and Short-Term Realities

While the short-term excitement of visiting different countries and experiencing new cultures can be appealing, it’s crucial to consider the long-term implications. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

Deprivation: Is it worth sacrificing your quality of life to experience the short-term pleasure of traveling the world? Physical and Mental Strain: Physical labor, especially for older individuals, can become increasingly challenging. What if your body is no longer able to cope with the demands of sea travel? Family Contract: How will you balance your professional commitments with your family life? What if your wife or spouse demands you to stay ashore, but you can no longer work due to physical limitations? Identity Struggle: If you are only at sea for 68 months over the course of two years, will your kids recognize you or do they see you as an absent father?

Alternatives to Merchant Navy

For engineering graduates and marine engineering professionals, transitioning to land-based careers might be a more practical and potentially rewarding option. As someone who left the merchant navy for a more stable and continuous income, I can attest to the benefits of choosing a career that offers regular and predictable pay:

Stable Income: Instead of earning every six months, a stable and regular salary means consistent financial planning and security. Continuous Career Advancement: In IT and other land-based professions, there are numerous opportunities for career advancement and skill development. Quality of Life: Working on land offers a better quality of life, allowing for better family time and a more fulfilling personal life. Future Planning: With a stable and consistent income, you can plan for your future with greater assurance, including education, savings, and retirement.

While there are success stories of those thriving in the merchant navy, it's important to weigh all the factors before you make a decision. Your life and future are worth considering carefully. Remember, what might seem like a fun and adventurous career may turn out to be a regrettable choice in the long run.

Conclusion

If you are an engineering graduate or a marine engineering professional, I strongly recommend you to reflect on your long-term goals and the potential impact on your life. Make a well-informed decision that aligns with your personal and professional aspirations. Good luck as you navigate your career choices.