Aviation · Maritime

Deck Crew

⚠ Estimate — needs validation · as of 2025

Deck crew members work on ships and help with mooring, cargo handling, watchkeeping, cleaning, and basic maintenance. It is a practical, physically active maritime career that usually starts with approved training and a seafarer identity and certification route.

Who it's for: Best for students who are fit, disciplined, comfortable with teamwork, and interested in ships, ports, and sea travel. It suits those who can follow safety rules and work in shifts.

Advertisement

At a glance

Entry mode: License
Exam shape: license
Key exam: DGCA
Min qualification: Training
Duration: 1.5-3 yr
Starting salary: 2-5 LPA (approx, as of 2025)
Sector: Private
Category: Aviation

Subjects / Stream

PhysicsMathematicsEnglishScienceVocational maritime trainingAny stream with strong fitness and communication skills

Step-by-step path

  1. Complete Class 10 or Class 12, preferably with good English, basic science, and physical fitness.
  2. Join a DGCA/DG Shipping-recognised maritime training route or a pre-sea deck-related course from an approved institute.
  3. Clear required medical fitness tests, including eyesight and general seafarer medical standards.
  4. Obtain the required seafarer documents and certifications, such as CDC and STCW-related basics, as applicable to the role.
  5. Complete onboard training or cadetship/trainee sea service under a shipping company or vessel operator.
  6. Apply for entry-level deck crew jobs through shipping companies, crewing agents, ports, or maritime recruiters.

Key exams

[object Object][object Object][object Object][object Object][object Object]

Top institutes / boards

Indian Maritime University (IMU)Marine Engineering and Research Institute (MERI), KolkataTraining Ship Chanakya, Navi MumbaiTolani Maritime Institute, PuneGreat Eastern Institute of Maritime Studies, LonavalaSamundra Institute of Maritime Studies, Lonavala

Similar careers

Able SeamanOrdinary SeamanBosunMarine Engine CrewPort Operations Assistant
Advertisement

Frequently asked questions

What is deck crew in the maritime sector?
Deck crew are shipboard workers who support navigation, mooring, cargo handling, cleaning, safety checks, and routine maintenance on the deck side of a vessel.
What is the minimum qualification for deck crew in India?
Many entry routes start after Class 10 or Class 12, followed by approved maritime training and required medical fitness. Exact eligibility depends on the course and shipping company.
Is DGCA the main exam for deck crew?
DGCA is not the usual regulator for deck crew. In India, maritime deck careers are mainly under DG Shipping and the Merchant Shipping framework.
Which exam should I prepare for to enter this field?
IMU CET may be relevant for some maritime courses, but many deck crew roles depend more on approved training, medical fitness, and company selection than on a single entrance exam.
Do I need a license to work as deck crew?
Yes, many shipboard roles require seafarer certification, medical fitness, and documents such as a Continuous Discharge Certificate, depending on the rank and vessel type.
How long does it take to become job-ready?
Typically about 1.5 to 3 years, including course time, medicals, documentation, and initial sea service or onboard training.
What subjects are useful in school for deck crew?
English, Physics, Mathematics, and basic science are useful. Good communication, discipline, and physical fitness matter a lot too.
Can a commerce or arts student become deck crew?
Yes, in some cases. However, eligibility depends on the specific maritime course and company rules. Strong English, fitness, and approved training are important.
What is the age limit for deck crew entry in India?
Age limits vary by course and employer. Many entry-level maritime programs prefer candidates around 17 to 25 years, but you should check the exact institute or company rule.
Is there reservation in maritime admissions?
Reservation may apply in some government or university-linked admissions as per Indian rules, but private institute policies can differ. Always check the official admission notice.
Are girls or women eligible for deck crew jobs?
Yes. Women can enter maritime careers if they meet the course, medical, and company requirements. Many shipping firms now recruit women for shipboard roles.
Is this a good career for me if I like travel?
Yes, if you enjoy travel, teamwork, and a structured routine. It is not ideal if you dislike long periods away from home or physically demanding work.
What is the starting salary for deck crew in India?
Starting pay is often around 2-5 LPA as of 2025, but it varies by company, vessel type, rank, and sea service.
Are fees high for deck crew training?
Fees vary widely by institute and course. Private maritime training can be costly, so check the official fee structure, hostel charges, and placement support before joining.
What jobs can I get after deck crew training?
You can start in entry-level shipboard deck roles and later move toward Able Seaman, Bosun, or other deck positions with sea service and further certification.
Is there good scope in India for deck crew?
Yes, India has a large seafaring workforce and demand from shipping, offshore, and port-related operations. Scope depends on certifications, experience, and global shipping conditions.
Do I need perfect eyesight for deck crew?
Good eyesight is important, and medical standards are strict. Exact requirements depend on the course, rank, and DG Shipping medical rules.
Can I join after Class 10?
Some entry routes may accept Class 10, but many better pathways prefer Class 12 and approved pre-sea training. Check the institute and company eligibility carefully.
What are the main risks in this job?
The work can involve physical strain, shift duty, weather exposure, and safety risks. Proper training, discipline, and following ship safety rules are essential.
How do I know if deck crew is right for me?
It may suit you if you are fit, practical, disciplined, and comfortable with ship life and teamwork. If you want a desk job or fixed city routine, it may not suit you.

Figures are indicative and source-stamped with an "as of" year (2025). Confirm on the official exam authority website before deciding.

Advertisement