Pre-Sea Training Courses for Aspiring Seafarers
The maritime industry offers lucrative career opportunities for those who wish to work at sea. Pre-sea training courses are the first step in becoming a professional seafarer. Some of the most popular courses include GP Rating, B.Sc. Nautical Science, and Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS).
1. GP Rating Course
- Duration: 6 Months
- Eligibility: 10th Pass with 40% in English & Science/Maths
- Fees: ₹2-5 Lakhs
- Placement Opportunities: Deck Crew, Engine Crew
- Starting Salary: ₹25,000 – ₹50,000 per month
- Rank Progression: Ordinary Seaman → Able Seaman → Bosun → Officer (after required courses)
- Departments: Deck or Engine Department
- Career Growth: Can become an officer after gaining experience and additional certifications.
2. B.Sc. Nautical Science
- Duration: 3 Years
- Eligibility: 12th Pass (PCM 60%) & English 50%
- Fees: ₹8-12 Lakhs
- Placement Opportunities: Merchant Navy (Deck Department)
- Starting Salary: ₹40,000 – ₹80,000 per month
- Rank Progression: Deck Cadet → Third Officer → Second Officer → Chief Officer → Captain
- Career Growth: Opportunity to become a Captain in 8-12 years.
3. Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS)
- Duration: 1 Year + 18 Months Sea Training
- Eligibility: 12th Pass (PCM 60%) & English 50%
- Fees: ₹6-8 Lakhs
- Placement Opportunities: Deck Cadet in Merchant Navy
- Starting Salary: ₹40,000 – ₹80,000 per month
- Rank Progression: Similar to B.Sc. Nautical Science
- Career Growth: Can rise to the rank of Captain with experience and exams.
Future After 10 Years of Service
After 10 years, seafarers can become Captains or Chief Engineers, earning ₹5-10 Lakhs per month. Many also shift to shore-based jobs like marine superintendent, port management, or ship surveying, offering stable careers with high salaries.
