Merchant Navy

A global industry, the Merchant Navy plays a huge role in economics (including employment and defence) and remains vital for the UK. More than 90% of international trade is transported by shipping and around 95% of the goods that come in and out of the UK travel by sea.

Maritime statistics released by the UK Department for Transport (DfT) report that in 2007, there were approximately 23,500 UK nationals working at sea, consisting of:

• 12,000 certificated deck and engine officers
• 800 uncertificated 'hotel and other' officers
• 4,000 deck and engineroom ratings
• 4,100 catering/hotel ratings
• 1,400 trainees

The roles and responsibilities of those working at sea include managing a navigational watch, planning a passage, using radar and high-tech navigational aids, radio communications (using maritime satellite systems), manoeuvring the ship, cargo handling, crew management, pollution prevention, fire-fighting, maintenance, repair and reassembly of shipboard engines and equipment, electrical, electronic and control engineering.

The British Merchant Navy was at one stage the largest in the world, but has since lost its status in terms of tonnage under the UK flag. According to the DfT, the amount of UK nationals working at sea has dropped 9% since 2002. That's one reason why Nautilus International campaigns for increased recruitment and training.

Want to know more about careers and training for the Merchant Navy? Visit our Careers & Training links.