Stepping aboard a ship as a deck or engine cadet for the first time can be exciting and scary at the same time. The violent sea, the complexity of the vessel, and the responsibilities of being a part of the crew can all be overwhelming. However, it is also an exciting opportunity for young men and women to learn about life at sea, gain practical experience, and develop their skills as future seafarers.Â
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience when you board your vessel for the first time.
1. Safety First. It is understandable that it must be an exciting and new experience. However, before starting with any tasks or activities, the importance of safety first should be emphasized. Safety should always be the top priority onboard. You should always follow all the safety procedures and protocols without fail. It means wearing your personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times when required, such as safety helmets, safety goggles, gloves, and other equipment necessary for your assigned tasks. Additionally, it is also important to be aware of all the fire prevention and emergency procedures. Always be prepared for unexpected situations that may arise on the ship. Familiarize yourself with the emergency exits and muster points, so you know where to go in case of an emergency. Never take safety for granted. Always remember to follow safety procedures and protocols to ensure your safety and the safety of your crew mates.
2. Respect the Hierarchy:Â Â On board ship, there are different levels of authority, and each person has a specific job and responsibility. As a cadet, it is important to acknowledge and respect the positions of those in charge, including the senior officers. Addressing them with the proper titles and showing them the necessary respect is a good start to establishing a good relationship and building a positive working environment onboard. Always respect the chain of command on board the ship and follow the orders of your superiors but make sure to understand the instructions at the same time.
3. Be Prepared: Ensure that you have all the necessary documentation, such as your SIRB, passport, and other certifications, before joining the ship. You should coordinate with your shipping company to make sure you will not miss anything important documents. Be ready to carry out your duties effectively and efficiently.
4. Be Punctual:Â Be on time for all your duties and meetings. Since you are a cadet, it is very important to make good impressions to senior officers and crew. When it is inevitable to be late, make sure to inform your superiors, and should be a valid reason.
5. Good Communication Skills: Good communication is the primary key to the safe operation onboard ships. It is important to not only express yourself clearly but also to understand what others are trying to convey. This is especially important in situations where safety is the priority, such as during emergencies or when navigating in a congested area. English is the official language of ships navigating worldwide. Most of the time, the ship’s crew is composed of different nationalities and it is very important to speak clearly, and listen attentively to enable to have effective communication. When communicating with your shipmates and superiors, it is important to be respectful and professional. This means being polite and using appropriate titles when addressing your superiors.
6. Stay Fit: The ship has a designated gym onboard intended for the wellness of the crew. Maintain a healthy lifestyle and keep yourself physically fit. This will help you to better handle the physically demanding tasks that you may encounter on board ship.
7. Familiarize yourself with the Vessel: This is the best time for a cadet to be familiar with the different parts of the ship and its functions. Put some extra effort to familiarize yourself with the layout of the vessel and its equipment, so that you can carry out your duties with confidence.
8. Be Adaptable: As mentioned earlier, the ship’s crew is composed of different nationalities, which also means different cultures and work ethics. Be prepared to adapt to new environments and situations, as working on a ship can be challenging at times. Stay positive and be open to new experiences.
9. Be Professional: Be professional at all times, maintain a neat and tidy appearance, and always conduct yourself in a manner that reflects well on yourself and your company.
10. Be a Team Player: Shipboard life can be difficult, especially during simultaneous operations where every crew is busy. So be willing to help your shipmates and work together to make the job done in a safe way.
Cadetship year is the best time to learn and enjoy the experience at the same time. It will be totally different once your rank will be promoted and you have already big responsibility. This is a unique opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people, and see new parts of the world. Good luck!
