First sea phase - what to expect and how to prepare

I remember being terrified before my first sea phase. Now as a Second Officer with 6 years of experience, I want to help cadets prepare:

**Before Joining:**
- Get all your documents ready well in advance (CDC, passport, medical, STCW)
- Pack smart - you don't need 5 pairs of jeans, you need work boots that fit
- Download offline content for entertainment
- Inform your family about communication expectations

**First Week Onboard:**
- Be humble but eager to learn
- Introduce yourself to everyone, especially the bosun and AB's
- Learn the ship layout immediately - know where all safety equipment is
- Keep a personal notebook for everything you learn

**During the Phase:**
- Volunteer for extra work - cargo watches, maintenance
- Ask questions but also know when to observe quietly
- Maintain your training record book diligently
- Don't get involved in crew politics

**Common Mistakes to Avoid:**
- Using phone during working hours
- Complaining about food in front of the cook
- Ignoring safety briefings because you think you know it all

Good luck to all joining soon! Drop your questions below.

994 views 3 replies

S

Suresh Nair Third Officer

1 years ago

#1

Excellent advice. I'd add one more thing: LEARN TO COOK BASIC FOOD. If you're on a smaller vessel the cook might be average. Knowing how to make a decent meal for yourself during night watches or on weekends goes a long way for morale.

Anonymous

1 years ago

#2

Current cadet here finishing my first phase. Everything in this post is true. The notebook tip is golden - I've filled two notebooks already and they're my most valuable study material. Also, be nice to the bosun. He teaches you more practical seamanship than any textbook.

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Maria Santos Second Engineer

1 years ago

#3

As a Filipino officer, I want to emphasize the importance of maintaining your TRB. Some cadets treat it as paperwork to be filled at the end. No - fill it daily. Get signatures while tasks are fresh. Your TRB is your proof of competency when you appear for oral exams.