The maritime world goes far beyond captains and traditional crew members. Working at sea is a viable career path for many different professional profiles, and the industry offers solid opportunities for those seeking stability, competitive salaries, and a lifestyle far from the ordinary.
If you’re curious about life at sea and the career possibilities it offers, this article is for you. Below, we list 5 ways to work at sea — each with its own characteristics, requirements, and advantages.
1. Deck or Engine Crew Member
These professionals are directly responsible for the operation of the vessel.
On the deck, sailors, deckhands, helmsmen, and boatswains perform tasks such as maneuvering, painting, and hull maintenance.
In the engine room, crew members maintain and operate the ship’s engines and systems.
Requirements: Basic maritime courses (like Brazil’s CFAQ), good physical condition, and the ability to handle the onboard routine.
2. Merchant Marine Officer
These professionals hold leadership and command roles on board, such as captain, chief officer, chief engineer, or first mate.
They graduate from specialized institutions, such as EFOMM (Merchant Marine Officer Training School), and play strategic roles in navigation, safety, and vessel management.
Advantages: A solid career path with high salaries and international opportunities.
3. Maritime Hospitality Professional
Cruise ships, platforms, and even supply vessels have full hospitality teams — including kitchen staff, cleaning crews, and general service providers.
Cooks, cabin attendants, service assistants, and even nutritionists can work aboard, ensuring crew well-being and proper nutrition.
Tip: English is a big plus, especially on international ships.
4. Field Technicians and Engineers
On oil platforms, offshore vessels, and specialized ships, you’ll often find technicians and engineers from fields like electrical, automation, welding, telecommunications, and mechanical engineering.
These professionals are usually hired by contractors for maintenance or inspections and stay on board for limited periods.
Ideal profile: Technical or university-level training and hands-on experience.
5. Healthcare Professionals
Larger vessels and offshore platforms typically include doctors, nurses, and medical technicians to provide onboard healthcare services.
Responsibilities range from basic care to emergency response, depending on how far the vessel is from shore.
Important: Professional licensing, offshore medical training, and availability for extended assignments at sea.
A Life at Sea: Not for Everyone, but Rewarding for Many
Working at sea requires preparation, discipline, and the mindset to embrace an unconventional lifestyle. But for those who adapt, the ocean offers a promising career path with ever-growing opportunities.
At Navsupply, we’re in daily contact with this world. Our mission is to supply vessels with everything they need — and that gives us a front-row seat to the unique challenges and exciting possibilities of life onboard.
How Much Do Seafarers Earn?
Wages vary greatly depending on the role, vessel type, employer, and level of experience. In general, salaries at sea tend to be significantly higher than equivalent onshore positions, especially considering the work schedule and benefits involved.
Here are some average salary ranges:
| Position | Average Monthly Salary (BRL) |
|---|---|
| Deckhand / Engine Room Assistant | R$ 3,500 to R$ 6,000 |
| Sailor (Deck/Engine) | R$ 6,000 to R$ 9,000 |
| Navigation or Engineering Officer | R$ 10,000 to R$ 20,000 |
| Captain | R$ 25,000 to R$ 45,000 |
| Maritime Cook | R$ 4,000 to R$ 8,000 |
| Technical Specialist (Electric, Mech.) | R$ 6,000 to R$ 15,000 |
| Offshore Doctor or Nurse | R$ 8,000 to R$ 20,000 |
Common benefits include:
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Daily bonuses or time-at-sea incentives
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Full meals
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Accommodation
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Transport to the embarkation site
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Health insurance
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Leave schedules with full time off (e.g., 14 days onboard / 14 days off)
Fun Facts About Working at Sea
1. You can see the world — and get paid for it
Long-haul seafarers and cruise ship crew often get to visit multiple countries while earning a living.
2. The routine is nearly military
Tight schedules, uniforms, strict hierarchies, and discipline are the norm. Life on board demands focus and respect for order.
3. Wi-Fi is a luxury (and often expensive!)
Internet access is limited or costly. Many seafarers use this time to truly disconnect — reading or studying in their downtime.
4. You sleep to the rhythm of the waves
In deep sea, the ship constantly rocks. Some find it soothing, others need time to adjust — especially at the beginning.
5. Assignments can last over 60 days
Depending on the vessel and role, extended trips are common. The upside? Long leave periods once you’re back on land.
6. Intense friendships are part of the deal
Spending 24/7 with the same crew builds strong bonds — or unforgettable stories.
7. Food onboard is a big deal
Nutrition is taken seriously on most ships. Specialized cooks and, in some cases, nutritionists are part of the team.
8. There’s an informal “mini-market” onboard
It’s common for crew members to bring candy, cosmetics, medicine, or small gadgets to sell informally during the trip. A bit of ocean entrepreneurship.
