How to Become a Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels in India

Command or supervise operations of ships and water vessels, such as tugboats and ferryboats. Required to hold license issued by U.S. Coast Guard.

Entry salary
Mid-career
Senior
Outlook
stable

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About the Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels role

Command or supervise operations of ships and water vessels, such as tugboats and ferryboats. Required to hold license issued by U.S. Coast Guard.

What's your education level?

Years of relevant experience?

Do you have any of these key skills?

Skills required

  • Celestial and Electronic Navigation
  • Vessel Traffic Management
  • Maritime Law and DG Shipping Regulations
  • Ship Handling and Maneuvering
  • Emergency Response and Search and Rescue
  • Meteorology and Weather Forecasting
  • Cargo Loading and Stowage Planning
  • Marine Engineering Fundamentals
  • Radio Communication and GMDSS
  • Crew Management and Leadership

How to enter this career

  1. 01

    IMU-CET entrance exam followed by a B.Sc. in Nautical Science and required sea-time for Second Mate's COC.

  2. 02

    Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) leading to a B.Sc. degree after completing mandatory sea service and MMD exams.

  3. 03

    Direct entry as a Deck Cadet after completing pre-sea training at a DG Shipping approved maritime institute.

  4. 04

    Progression from Rating to Officer rank by completing required sea service and passing MMD written and oral examinations.

A day in the life

  • Conducting pre-departure bridge checks and verifying the passage plan according to DG Shipping guidelines.
  • Supervising the safe loading and discharging of cargo while ensuring the vessel's stability and trim.
  • Monitoring electronic navigation systems like ECDIS and RADAR to maintain a safe watch in Indian coastal waters.
  • Leading emergency drills and ensuring all crew members are compliant with STCW safety standards.
  • Communicating with Port Trust authorities and Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) during berthing operations.
  • Maintaining official logbooks and technical documentation required for statutory inspections by the Mercantile Marine Department.

Salary insights

A Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels in India typically earns Varies. Compensation varies by city, employer and experience.

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