How to Become a Captain of a Ship in 2025: Salary, Jobs, Vacancy

The Master in Merchant Navy, also called the Captain of a Ship, is the highest rank on board a ship. The Captain is the one responsible for everything happening on the ship. Even if an accident occurs at the fo’castle of the ship, the captain will be questioned about the safety procedures taken and for the complete report on the accident. Being a captain is a work of responsibility, leadership and management. If you want to become a captain of a ship then let’s see how to become a captain of a ship in 2025.

Who is the Master in Merchant Navy?

The Master (Captain) is the s. He is in charge of all operations, including navigation, safety, crew management, cargo handling, and compliance with international maritime laws. No decision on board can bypass the Captain.

Becoming a Master requires years of sailing experience, advanced maritime training, and leadership skills. It is a position of trust, respect, and high reward.

Eligibility Criteria to Become a Captain of a Ship

To become a Captain in the Merchant Navy, you need to clear some eligibility criteria. Let’s check out the criterias you need to fulfill to become a captain of a ship.

You need to have at least 36 months of sea time on a ship not less than 500 gross tonnage. This shall include at least 18 months of sea time on ships not less than 3000 gross tonnage.
At least 12 months of sea time should be performed after obtaining a Chief Mate CoC and at least 6 months of that should be on ships of 3000 GT or more.
In case the watches were doubled or performed as an assistant watchkeeping officer then sea going service will become a two third of the actual service performed.
Completion of Post-Sea Courses:
Once completed then you can go for the written and oral examination.

To check whether you are eligible to apply for the Master CoC Exam or not, you can check out our Master CoC Eligibility Calculator.

How to Become a Captain of a Ship?

The process of becoming a captain in the merchant navy is long and not easy. You have to be quite hard working and consistent with your work, and preparation.

To begin, you must finish Class 12th in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) with at least 60%.
After schooling, join either a Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) or B.Sc. Nautical Science. These courses provide the foundation of navigation and ship operations.

DNS graduates undergo 18 months of ship training.
B.Sc. graduates undergo 12 months training.
After sea training, you must complete STCW advanced courses like AFF, PSCRB, MFA, ARPA, ECDIS, and GMDSS.
Once ready, you appear for the Second Mate exams (written, oral, and signaling). Passing this gives you the Second Mate Certificate of Competency (CoC), allowing you to sail as a Third Officer and later as a Second Officer.
You need at least 12 months of sea service as Third or Second Officer. During this time, you handle navigation charts, firefighting appliances, and life-saving equipment.
After sea service, complete mandatory STCW courses (RANSCO, Chief Mate Phase I & II). Then, appear for the Chief Mate exam. Once you pass, you receive the Chief Mate CoC, making you eligible to sail as Chief Officer.
Work for 12 months as Chief Officer. This position gives you leadership experience, as you are now in charge of cargo operations, safety drills, and deck management.
Finally, after sea time as Chief Officer, you are eligible for the Master’s exam. Passing this grants you the Master’s Certificate of Competency (CoC), officially qualifying you to become the Captain of a ship.

In short: Class 12th → Nautical Science Course → Onboard Training → 2nd Mate CoC → Chief Mate CoC → Master CoC → Captain of a Ship (Master)

To learn more about the Master CoC process, salary, eligibility, course fees, and advance courses required check out our Master CoC Free Guidance Series.

Duties of a Captain in Merchant Navy

The Master’s duties are vast and carry ultimate responsibility:

Navigate and maneuver the ship safely in all weather.
Lead, train, and manage the entire crew.
Plan, execute, and monitor voyages.
Ensure compliance with international maritime regulations.
Oversee cargo loading, unloading, and stowage.
Handle emergencies such as fire, collisions, or medical issues.
Monitor ship stability, sail adjustments, and structural safety.
Coordinate with coastal authorities and port officials.
Organize onboard medical care and crew welfare.
Ensure safe handling of hazardous materials.

In simple words, the Captain is responsible for everything on the ship.

Master Salary in Merchant Navy (2025)

The salary of a Master in the Merchant Navy is among the highest at sea, reflecting the role’s responsibility. Salaries vary by ship type and company.

Rank	Type of Ship	Salary (per month)
Master	Bulk Carrier	₹6,50,000 – ₹8,50,000
Master	Oil / Chemical / Gas Carrier	₹7,80,000 – ₹14,00,000
Master	Container Ship	₹4,50,000 – ₹6,50,000

💡 Tax Benefits: If you spend more than 182 days outside India, your salary is usually tax-free in India.

Captain Jobs Vacancies in Merchant Navy

Captains are always in demand across international shipping companies. Since this role requires years of experience and proven leadership, vacancies are usually open for qualified officers. Many Masters also switch companies for higher salaries, better routes, and career growth.

👉 To find jobs, check:

merchantnavydecodedjobs.com

Frequently Asked Questions about the Captain Jobs Vacancies

Q1. What is the salary of a Master in the Merchant Navy?
The average salary ranges from ₹8,00,000 to ₹12,00,000 per month, depending on ship type and company.

Q2. How do I become a Master?
You need at least 36 years sea service, pass the Second Mate CoC, then Chief Mate CoC, and finally the Master CoC exam.

Q3. What are the duties of a Master (Captain)?
The Captain ensures safe navigation, crew management, cargo handling, and compliance with laws.

Q4. How much sea time is needed to become a Master?
At least 12 months as Chief Officer, along with previous officer experience with a total of 36 months.

Captain in Merchant Navy