CAREER
What Is a Seafarer?
Everything you need to know if you want to become a seafarer in the maritime industry. Duties, requirements, training, and career paths.
A seafarer is the general term for personnel serving on ships and ensuring the continuity of maritime transport. They work in different departments to keep the vessel operating safely, efficiently, and in compliance with regulations.
1. What Is a Seafarer?
A seafarer is the general term for all personnel serving in the deck, engine, electrical, galley, medical, and administrative departments on commercial vessels. Under international regulations, they must complete specific training and hold valid certificates of competency.
2. What Are the Duties of a Seafarer?
Seafarers take on different responsibilities depending on their department:
- Deck Department: Navigation, cargo operations, safety
- Engine Department: Engine-room operations, maintenance, repairs
- Electrical Department: Electrical systems, automation, maintenance
- Support Departments: Cook, oiler, ordinary seaman, medical staff, etc.
3. Requirements to Become a Seafarer
- At least primary school education
- Obtain a medical fitness certificate
- Complete required STCW training
- Hold navigation and medical competency certificates
- Obtain a seafarer's discharge book (SID)
For detailed information and up-to-date training options, visit our Career Guide page.
4. How to Become a Seafarer
To become a seafarer, you first need to enroll in an approved training program, complete STCW basic safety training, and obtain your medical certificate. You can then follow the procedures with the relevant maritime authority to obtain your discharge book and competency certificates.
On DenizKariyer, you can follow training announcements and job listings to plan the process step by step.
5. Seafarer Training
Seafarer training covers basic safety, personal survival, firefighting, first aid, and professional competency programs. Additional specialist training may also be mandatory depending on your position.
- STCW Basic Safety Training
- Professional competency and certification programs
- Simulator and practical sea training
6. Seafarer Salaries in 2026
In 2026, seafarer salaries vary by rank, vessel type, flag state, experience, and contract terms. There are noticeable pay differences between deck and engine officers and able seafarer roles.
We recommend following industry job listings regularly for up-to-date market data and position-based expectations.
7. Career Paths
Seafarers who want to advance in a maritime career can follow a progression path on the deck side—from ordinary seaman to able seaman, third officer, and captain—or a similar route in the engine department. Sea service duration, examinations, and additional competency certificates are decisive at each career stage.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
How old do you need to be to become a seafarer?
Generally, you must be at least 17 years old; some training programs may have different age limits.
Is STCW training mandatory?
Yes, basic STCW training is mandatory for all seafarers working on board.
What is a seafarer's discharge book used for?
It officially records your sea service and is frequently required for port procedures, payroll, and contract processes.
