A well-structured seafarer CV is essential for securing a job in the maritime industry. Whether you are an Ordinary Seaman (OS), Able Seaman (AB), Bosun, Engineer, or Officer, your CV should highlight your qualifications, experience, certifications, and skills.This guide provides a sample CV format along with tips to help you create an effective resume that meets industry standards.
1. Key Elements of a Seafarer CV
A seafarer CV should be clear, concise, and professional. It typically includes the following sections:
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Personal Information
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Career Objective
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Certifications & Licenses
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Work Experience
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Education & Training
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Skills & Competencies
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References
Each section should be well-organized to ensure hiring managers can quickly find important details.
2. Sample CV for Seafarer
[Your Name]
Seafarer | [Your Rank]
Address: [Your Location]
Phone: [Your Contact Number]
Email: [Your Email]
Seaman’s Book No.: [Your Seaman’s Book Number]
Nationality: [Your Nationality]
Date of Birth: [Your Date of Birth]
Career Objective
A highly motivated [Your Rank] with [X] years of experience in the maritime industry. Skilled in ship operations, maintenance, navigation, and safety procedures. Seeking a position where I can apply my skills and contribute to the success of a reputable shipping company.
Certifications & Licenses
✅ STCW Certification (Mandatory for all seafarers)
✅ Seafarer’s Identification & Record Book (SIRB)
✅ Basic Safety Training (BST)
✅ *Survival Craft and Rescue Boat (SCRB) – If applicable
✅ Advanced Firefighting (For officers and engineers)
✅ *GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System) – If applicable
✅ Medical Certificate (Valid)
Additional certifications should be listed depending on the specific job role.
Work Experience
[Job Title] | [Company Name]
[Ship Name / Type] – [Employment Dates]
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Assisted in deck maintenance, cargo handling, and mooring operations.
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Conducted navigational watch duties under the supervision of officers.
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Ensured compliance with safety protocols and maritime regulations.
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Participated in emergency drills, firefighting, and rescue operations.
[Job Title] | [Company Name]
[Ship Name / Type] – [Employment Dates]
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Performed routine inspections of ship equipment to ensure operational efficiency.
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Assisted in loading and unloading of cargo while ensuring proper securing.
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Maintained cleanliness and upkeep of the ship deck.
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Cooperated with team members to ensure safe and efficient voyage operations.
Note: List previous jobs in reverse chronological order, including details of ship type (e.g., bulk carrier, tanker, passenger ship).
Education & Training
[Degree or Course] | [Maritime School/Institution]
[Year of Completion]
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Completed comprehensive maritime training focused on [Navigation, Engineering, or Deck Operations].
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Gained hands-on experience in ship handling, safety procedures, and marine communication.
Skills & Competencies
✔️ Strong knowledge of ship maintenance and safety protocols
✔️ Experienced in navigational watch and mooring operations
✔️ Ability to work in challenging environments and rough seas
✔️ Skilled in firefighting, emergency response, and survival techniques
✔️ Team player with excellent communication and leadership skills
✔️ Proficient in using maritime navigation and safety equipment
References
[Name] | [Rank]
[Company Name / Ship]
Contact Number: [Phone Number]
Email: [Email Address]
[Name] | [Rank]
[Company Name / Ship]
Contact Number: [Phone Number]
Email: [Email Address]
Ensure that your references are former supervisors or captains who can vouch for your work experience and skills.
3. Tips for Writing an Effective Seafarer CV
3.1 Keep It Professional and Concise
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Your CV should be 1-2 pages long and include only relevant information.
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Use clear headings and bullet points for easy readability.
3.2 Highlight Certifications and Licenses
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Employers prioritize seafarers with valid maritime certifications.
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Keep your STCW, medical certificate, and seaman’s book updated.
3.3 Emphasize Work Experience
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Provide details about ship type, tonnage, and specific responsibilities.
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Mention any promotions or leadership roles you have taken.
3.4 Use Action Words
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Instead of saying "responsible for safety", say "ensured compliance with maritime safety regulations".
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This makes your CV more impactful and engaging.
3.5 Customize for Each Job Application
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Tailor your CV based on the specific shipping company and vessel type.
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If applying for a tanker, emphasize experience with cargo handling.
3.6 Proofread for Errors
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A well-written CV increases your chances of getting hired.
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Double-check spelling, grammar, and formatting before submission.
4. Cover Letter Example for a Seafarer
A cover letter enhances your CV by explaining why you are the best candidate for the job.
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Hiring Manager
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Subject: Application for [Job Title] Position
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With [X years] of experience in the maritime industry, I have developed strong skills in deck maintenance, cargo operations, safety compliance, and emergency response.
Throughout my career, I have served on [Ship Type] and worked in [specific sea routes or conditions], gaining valuable expertise in [specific tasks like mooring, steering, or cargo handling]. My valid STCW certification, medical fitness certificate, and seaman’s book ensure my readiness for immediate deployment.
I would appreciate the opportunity to contribute to your team. Please find my CV attached for your review. I look forward to discussing how my skills align with your company’s needs.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
A well-prepared seafarer CV increases your chances of getting hired in the maritime industry. Ensure your CV is structured, professional, and highlights key qualifications. By following this guide, you can create a strong resume that stands out to shipping companies and recruiters.
Good luck with your seafarer career!