Life at Sea: What to Expect on Your First Voyage

Your first voyage is an exciting milestone in your maritime career. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of this experience.

Before Departure

Essential Documentation
- Passport and seafarer's book (CDC)
- Medical fitness certificate
- STCW certificates
- Visa (if required)
- Joining letter from shipping company

Packing Checklist
- Clothing: Coveralls, safety shoes, casual wear, formal uniform
- Personal Items: Toiletries, medicines, sunscreen
- Work Gear: Gloves, helmet (often provided onboard)
- Entertainment: Books, tablet, headphones, USB drive with movies
- Communication: SIM card for port calls, email setup

First Days Onboard

Safety First
- Familiarization tour of the ship
- Emergency muster station assignment
- Location of firefighting equipment
- Life-saving appliances
- Safety regulations and procedures

Meeting the Crew
- Introduce yourself to senior officers
- Respect the hierarchy
- Learn names and ranks
- Understand different nationalities and cultures
- Observe before you speak

Your Cabin
- Small but functional space
- Usually shared with another cadet
- Keep it clean and organized
- Respect your roommate's privacy

Daily Routine

Typical Day:
- 0700: Breakfast
- 0800-1200: Morning watch/work
- 1200: Lunch
- 1300-1700: Afternoon work
- 1800: Dinner
- 1900-2000: Study time/personal time
- 2200: Lights out (recommended)

Watch Keeping (for deck cadets):
- 4-hour shifts
- 0000-0400, 0400-0800, 0800-1200, 1200-1600, 1600-2000, 2000-2400
- Rotation every few days
- Stay alert and focused

Challenges You'll Face

1. Seasickness
- Common in first few days
- Stay on deck, focus on horizon
- Medication available from ship's medicine chest
- Passes in 2-3 days for most people

2. Homesickness
- Normal and temporary
- Stay busy with work and learning
- Email home when possible
- Build friendships with crew
- Remember it's part of the journey

3. Confined Space
- Limited personal space
- Same faces every day
- Lack of privacy
- Adaptation takes time

4. Long Working Hours
- Physically demanding work
- Need good time management
- Prioritize sleep when off-duty
- Stay hydrated and eat well

Making the Most of Your Experience

Learning Opportunities
- Ask questions (but choose appropriate times)
- Volunteer for different tasks
- Maintain a training diary
- Document equipment and procedures
- Take photos (where permitted)
- Learn from experienced crew members

Professional Development
- Complete required training record book (TRB)
- Get signatures for competencies
- Attend safety drills seriously
- Practice navigation and engineering skills
- Study during free time

Personal Well-being
- Exercise in gym or on deck
- Maintain sleep schedule
- Stay connected with family
- Enjoy port visits
- Make friends but avoid conflicts

Port Calls

- Increased work during cargo operations
- Opportunity to go ashore (if watch schedule permits)
- Local SIM cards for internet
- Explore safely and return on time
- Never miss ship's departure

Dealing with Difficulties

Communication Barriers
- Crews are multicultural
- Maritime English is common language
- Be patient and clear
- Learn basic phrases in other languages

Conflict Resolution
- Avoid arguments
- Report serious issues to seniors
- Stay professional always
- Focus on your work

Emergency Situations
- Follow training and drills
- Stay calm
- Listen to seniors
- Know your responsibilities

Tips from Experienced Mariners

1. "Keep your training record book updated daily" - Capt. Sharma
2. "Learn something new every single day" - Chief Engineer Patel
3. "Respect everyone, regardless of rank" - Second Officer Chen
4. "Your attitude matters more than your knowledge initially" - Chief Officer Rodriguez
5. "Enjoy the journey, it's a unique experience" - Third Engineer Kim

After Your First Voyage

Debrief and Reflect
- Review your training record book
- Identify areas for improvement
- Celebrate achievements
- Prepare for return to academy or next voyage

Career Planning
- Decide on specialization (deck/engine)
- Plan for next certification
- Set career goals
- Network with crew members

Conclusion

Your first voyage will be challenging, exciting, and transformative. You'll learn more in a few months at sea than months in a classroom. Embrace the experience, stay positive, and remember—every successful captain and chief engineer started exactly where you are now.

Fair winds and following seas!