How to Become a Deck Cadet in Merchant Navy? Salary, Jobs, How to Join in 2025

Are you planning to start your career as a Deck Cadet in the Merchant Navy in 2025? This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from qualifications and duties to salary, sponsorship, training, and job opportunities for freshers.

What is a Deck Cadet in the Merchant Navy?

A Deck Cadet is an entry-level trainee officer who assists senior deck officers in navigation, ship operations, cargo handling, and maritime safety. This is the first step toward becoming a Third Officer, Second Officer, Chief Officer, and ultimately Captain in the Merchant Navy.

How to Become a Deck Cadet in Merchant Navy (Step-by-Step Guide)

1. Educational Qualification – Complete Class 12th (PCM)

To be eligible, you must complete your 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) from a recognized board.

You also need to have more than at least 60% in the PCM which will allow you to sit in the IMU CET Exam.

To join a Diploma in Nautical Science, B.Sc Nautical Science, or B.Tech Marine Engineering, you need to get a good rank in IMU CET before applying for the college.

Candidates can check whether they are eligible to join the Merchant Navy or not with our Merchant Navy Eligibility Calculator.

2. Join a Nautical Science Course (DNS or B.Sc Nautical Science)

Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) – 1-year program.
B.Sc. in Nautical Science – 3-year degree.

Both courses are approved by DG Shipping and designed to prepare you for life at sea.

3. Secure Sponsorship from a Shipping Company

If you are planning to join the DNS then you need to secure sponsorship from the shipping companies. The sponsorship is like a guarantee that a shipping company gives to the candidate stating that they will give him the job once Diploma in Nautical Science is completed.
Getting sponsored by a reputed shipping company before or after admission ensures onboard training placement after your course. Apply via shipping company portals, or through trusted platforms like merchantnavydecodedjobs.com.

4. Apply for DG Shipping Approved Medical Exam

After clearing the sponsorship exam and interview, the company will provide you with the sponsorship letter and ask you to get your medicals done from the DG Shipping Doctor. You need to submit ANNEXURE 4, ANNEXURE 5 and ILO medical report in the company via email and in your college as well.

Make sure, you are not colour blind and you should not have physical or mental disability. A physically or mentally challenged person is unfit to join the Merchant Navy. \

For more information, you can check the Medical Calculator for Merchant Navy.

5. Undergo Onboard Training (Sea Time)

DNS Cadets: 18 months of training onboard.
B.Sc. Cadets: 12 months of training onboard.

6. Complete STCW Courses (Mandatory)

Courses include:

Basic STCW Course
STSDSD Course

You can search book these STCW Courses near you with STCW Course Finder.

7. Apply for 2nd Mate CoC

Once you complete required sea time, you can appear for the Second Mate CoC examination, making you eligible to become a Third Officer.

Duties and Responsibilities of a Deck Cadet

Here are the key tasks of a Deck Cadet on a ship:

Navigation Assistance: Aid in chart plotting, voyage planning, and bridge watchkeeping.
Cargo Operations: Help with loading/unloading, cargo securing, and documentation.
Deck Watchkeeping: Assist during bridge watches under the Second Officer’s guidance.
Maintenance: Clean and maintain deck machinery, life-saving appliances, and mooring equipment.
Safety Drills: Participate in fire drills, abandon-ship drills, and safety inspections.
Documentation: Maintain logbooks and records related to navigation and operations.
Learn from Officers: Constantly observe and support the Chief Officer and Second Officer.

Deck Cadet Salary in Merchant Navy (2025)

Type of Ship	Salary Range (Monthly in ₹)
Bulk Carrier	₹25,000 – ₹50,000
Oil/Chemical Tanker	₹30,000 – ₹60,000
Container Ship	₹28,000 – ₹55,000

Additional Benefits:

Tax-Free Salary: If you maintain NRI status by being outside India for 182+ days/year.
Free Food & Accommodation: Provided onboard.
Rapid Career Growth: Promotions every 2–3 years with proper CoC exams.

Deck Cadet Jobs and Vacancies in Merchant Navy (2025)

Looking for the latest Merchant Navy Deck Cadet jobs in 2025?

Check LinkedIn job boards
Apply via official shipping company portals
Visit merchantnavydecodedjobs.com for verified vacancies, sponsorship exams, and career counseling

Start your seafaring career with leading companies like:

FAQs – Deck Cadet in Merchant Navy (2025)

✅ What is the salary of a Deck Cadet in the Merchant Navy?

A Deck Cadet earns between ₹25,000 to ₹60,000/month depending on the type of vessel and the company.

✅ How long is the training period for Deck Cadets?

18 months (for DNS)
12 months (for B.Sc. Nautical Science)

✅ Is sponsorship mandatory for Deck Cadets?

Yes, sponsorship ensures onboard placement and training opportunities after your pre-sea course.

✅ What’s the age limit to join as a Deck Cadet?

The general age limit is 18 to 25 years, depending on the institute and course.

✅ Are Merchant Navy jobs tax-free?

Yes, if you qualify as an NRI (Non-Resident Indian) after spending 182+ days onboard, your salary will be exempted from Indian income tax.

Deck Cadet in Merchant Navy