From Cadet to Captain or Chief Engineer — Milestones Worth Celebrating
For many aspiring seafarers, the dream often begins with a single image — standing on the bridge, commanding a ship as Captain or Chief Engineer. What is rarely talked about is the long, structured journey that lies between joining as a cadet and reaching that final rank.
In the Merchant Navy, progress is not instant — it is earned, milestone by milestone, voyage by voyage.
The Merchant Navy is not a shortcut career. It is a profession built on defined milestones, mandatory certifications, sea time, exams, and responsibility at every stage. Each rank achieved is not just a promotion — it is proof of competence, discipline, and persistence.
The journey typically starts as a Deck Cadet or Engine Cadet, where the focus is learning fundamentals: ship operations, safety routines, watchkeeping, and discipline onboard. This phase is often the most challenging, as cadets adjust to long contracts, physical work, and life at sea for the first time.
After completing required sea time and clearing the first CoC exams, cadets move into officer roles — Third Officer or Fourth Engineer. This is the first real leadership milestone. Responsibilities increase, decision-making becomes critical, and accountability grows with every watch.
Progressing further to Second Officer / Third Engineer marks another major shift. At this stage, officers are no longer just following procedures — they are actively managing navigation, cargo operations, engine systems, and junior crew.
The transition to Chief Officer or Second Engineer is often considered one of the most demanding phases. It requires advanced certification, strong operational knowledge, people management skills, and the ability to handle pressure during inspections, port operations, and emergencies.
Finally, reaching Captain or Chief Engineer represents the culmination of years of effort. These roles carry ultimate responsibility for the vessel, crew, cargo, and safety. It is not just a rank — it is a professional identity earned through consistent performance and commitment.
What many candidates underestimate is how critical timely STCW courses, CoC preparation, guidance, and planning are at every milestone. Delays in exams, poor preparation, or lack of clarity can slow down progression by years.
Celebrating milestones matters because each one reflects growth — not just in rank, but in confidence, skill, and professionalism. The Merchant Navy rewards those who respect the process and prepare strategically for every step.
If you’re planning your next milestone — whether joining as a cadet or preparing for higher certifications — explore verified courses, coaching, exams guidance, and study material on NavyCourses to keep your career moving forward.
