What Is the Merchant Navy?

Entering the Merchant Navy can feel confusing at first – different courses, unfamiliar terms, and many opinions. This page is designed to give you clarity, not pressure.

Whether you’re a student, a parent, or simply exploring the idea of a maritime career, this guide will help you understand how the Merchant Navy works and what your options are.

The Merchant Navy refers to commercial ships that transport cargo, oil, gas, and passengers across the world.
People working on these ships are called seafarers, and they work in different departments based on their role and training.

A Merchant Navy career typically offers:

• Global travel

• Structured career progression

• Long-term earning potential

• International work experience

Main Career Paths in the Merchant Navy

Most seafarers start by choosing one of three career paths.
You don’t need to know everything right now — just understand the direction.

Deck Officer Path

Deck officers are responsible for navigation, ship operations, and safety.

Typical roles include:

• Navigation officer

• Cargo operations

• Ship management and watchkeeping

This path is suitable if you are interested in:

• Navigation and charts

• Ship handling

• Leadership roles onboard

Marine Engineer Path

Marine engineers manage the ship’s machinery and technical systems.

Typical responsibilities include:

• Engines and power systems

• Maintenance and repairs

• Mechanical and electrical operations

This path is suitable if you are interested in:

• Engineering

• Machines and systems

• Technical problem-solving

Ratings Path

Ratings are skilled crew members who support deck and engine departments.

Typical roles include:

• Deck crew

• Engine room crew

• Catering and hospitality roles

This path is suitable if you prefer:

• Hands-on work

• Shorter training routes

• Practical shipboard roles

Who Can Join the Merchant Navy?

Eligibility depends on the career path and country, but at a high level:

• Students after 10th or 12th can enter through different routes

• Some paths require science subjects, others do not

• Medical fitness is required for all seafarers

• Age limits vary by course and country

Exact eligibility details differ by course — you’ll find them on individual course pages.

Common Terms You’ll Hear (Simple Explanation)

You’ll come across these terms often. Here’s what they mean – simply.

DNS
A diploma course to become a deck officer after 12th.

DNS Sponsorship
A company-backed route where a shipping company supports your training and job.

IMUCET
An entrance exam for Merchant Navy colleges in India.

STCW
Mandatory safety training required before sailing on a ship.

COC
Promotion exams to move up to higher ranks onboard.

B.Sc Nautical Science
A 3-year degree course to become a deck officer.

B.Tech Marine Engineering
A 4-year degree course to become an engine officer.

GME
A 1-year course for mechanical engineering graduates to join ships as marine engineers.

ETO
A 4-month course to work as an electrical officer onboard ships for electrical engineering graduates.

GP Rating
A 6-month training course to join ships as a ratings crew member.

Ratings
Entry-level shipboard jobs supporting deck, engine, or catering departments.

Pre-Sea Training
Initial training done before your first ship job.

You don’t need to understand everything now — this will become clearer as you progress.

How NavyCourses Helps

NavyCourses is built to make maritime education easier to understand and navigate.

Here, you can:

• Explore Merchant Navy courses and training options

• Find STCW courses and upcoming batches

• Access coaching, guidance, and recorded learning

• Discover study material and exam preparation resources

• Learn from verified maritime educators and institutes

No middlemen. No forced decisions.

What Should You Do Next?

Choose what feels right for you right now:

• Explore Pre-Sea Courses
  (If you’re looking to join the Merchant Navy)

• See Entrance & Sponsorship Coaching
  (If you need preparation or guidance)

• Talk to a Counsellor
  (If you’re unsure about the right path)

• Browse All Categories
  (If you already know what you’re looking for)

A Note for Beginners

You don’t need to decide everything today.

Take your time. Read, explore, and compare options. A Merchant Navy career is a long journey – the right start matters.

NavyCourses is here to help you understand your options, not rush your decision.