It’s all hands on deck for a life at sea with marine apprenticeships

Marine apprenticeships provide an opportunity to work in a unique and ever changing environment. Working with people from all over the world and enjoying exciting experiences not offered by any other career.

The marine industry continues to play a key part in our lives. Huge swathes of international trade come and go by sea, while millions of passengers leave and arrive every year. Boats play a part in leisure too—from rowing to sailing.

The fleet of ships that transport goods and people over the seas is called the Merchant Navy. They include massive container ships and oil tankers, cruise ships and car ferries, and specialist craft that might, for example, support offshore oil rigs or lay undersea cables. There’s also the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, which keeps the Royal Navy’s warships supplied with food, fuel and ammunition around the world, and tugs, which assist with the movement of larger ships in and out of ports.

Work on board is broadly divided between two departments. The deck department is in charge of navigating and steering the ship, while the engineering department makes sure the engines and all the machinery are running smoothly. Either way, it’s a far cry from your typical office job; you could be at sea for months at a time, although you’ll get plenty of leave when you’re back on shore. Port operations are important too. Cargo has to be loaded and unloaded at ports, harbours and quays using various types of lifting equipment and vehicles.

Marine engineers are required to install, maintain, fault find and repair marine engines, ancillary systems and equipment onboard yachts, commercial craft and superyachts.

There are also apprenticeships available in able seafaring, boatbuilding, piloting and more.

To find your perfect marine apprenticeship, take a look at the options below.