Applying for a Cadetship

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Before submitting your application to us for an Officer Cadetship, please review the information provided at the following links so that you have a good understanding of what is involved in a career at sea, as well as the structure of the training programme you would like to embark upon.

Maritime Careers

Officer Cadetships

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application letter for maritime apprenticeship sample

Having reviewed this information, please also ensure that you meet the academic entry requirements for the training programme you wish to embark upon. 

It is also advisable to undertake the Seafarer Medical Examination (ENG1) to ensure that you are actually fit to work at sea.

These academic and medical requirements are summarised at:

Entry Requirements

Please note that UK based cadetships are currently only open to UK and European Economic Area (EEA) nationals who have been resident in the UK for a year prior to application.

What career are you interested in?

Merchant navy, offshore oil & gas, superyachts, marine renewables.

The Nautical Institute

No matter what career path you choose, we will find the right place for you!

A six-part television programme produced by Scottish Television in conjunction with CareersatSea.org provides some very useful insights in to working at sea in the Merchant Navy:

The Merchant Navy – Part 1

The Merchant Navy – Part 2

The Merchant Navy – Part 3

The Merchant Navy – Part 4

The Merchant Navy – Part 5

The Merchant Navy – Part 6

A career for the passionate.

Once you are ready to apply, please email your application letter and Curriculum Vitae (CV) to us at [email protected] , and confirm your preferred training discipline (i.e. Deck Cadetship, Engineer Cadetship or METO Cadetship).

Recruitment and selection of Officer Cadets takes place throughout the year and is divided between the September and January college intakes. The recruitment and selection of Officer Trainees is administered by Just Be Maritime on behalf of our cadet sponsors, with the sponsor taking the final decision regarding sponsorship offers.

Once an application is received, we will confirm receipt, check eligibility (e.g. nationality, academic achievements etc.) and screen all remaining applications before shortlisting candidates for the formal interview process.  We will keep all applicants informed at each stage of the selection process.

If your application is successful, we will then issue a formal offer letter, subject to completion of acceptance checks (i.e. academic certificates, ENG1 medical certificate etc.)

Once the acceptance checks have been successfully completed, we will then produce personalised training agreements for each Officer Cadet.

Ready for the next step?

For further information about maritime careers, please contact us at:  [email protected]

Once you are ready to apply for a cadetship, please email your application letter and Curriculum Vitae (CV) to us at: [email protected] , and confirm your preferred training discipline (i.e. Deck Cadetship, Engineer Cadetship, METO Cadetship or Hotel Trainee).

application letter for maritime apprenticeship sample

Deck Cadet Cover Letter Example

A Deck Cadet is a junior member of a ship’s deck department, responsible for performing a variety of tasks related to navigation, cargo operations, and vessel maintenance. They must be familiar with navigation and ship operations.

A Deck Cadet Cover Letter provides additional information that is not mentioned on the resume to the employer. In your cover letter, you have to cover exceptional qualities and highlight all those aspects that add weight to your application. Sending a cover letter along with the resume helps the employer to sort easily and pick the right candidate. Unable to draft an eye-catchy cover letter? Use our Deck Cadet Cover Letter Samples.

Deck Cadet Cover Letter example

  • Cover Letters

Deck Cadets are generally employed on merchant’s vessels and work under the supervision of the Chief Officer or Captain. They receive hands-on experience in the daily running of a vessel and are expected to be able to carry out orders and carry out assigned tasks safely and efficiently. Deck Cadets are responsible for learning the duties of a deck officer, including navigation, watch-keeping, and cargo operations, as well as ship maintenance and housekeeping.

What to Include in a Deck Cadet Cover Letter?

Roles and responsibilities.

  • Ensure safe navigation of the vessel.
  • Monitor and maintain the ship’s deck equipment, such as winches and cranes.
  • Assist in various deck operations , such as mooring, anchoring, and line handling.
  • Perform maintenance and cleaning duties on the deck.
  • Assist the Captain and crew during emergency situations.
  • Participate in safety drills and other safety-related activities.
  • Keep a watch to look for signs of danger.
  • Monitor and maintain the ship’s logbook.
  • Assist with loading and unloading cargo and supplies.

Education & Skills

Deck cadet skills:.

  • Familiarity with navigation and ship operating systems.
  • Ability to read and understand navigational charts and maritime regulations.
  • Knowledge of basic bridge watchkeeping and lookout duties.
  • Ability to work well under pressure in a dynamic environment.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
  • Good physical fitness and endurance.
  • Attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Ability to learn quickly and adapt to changing circumstances.

Deck Cadet Education Requirements:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Specialized maritime course in navigation, ship handling, mechanics, and watchkeeping.
  • Attain 18 years of age.
  • Possess a valid passport.
  • Physically fit, with an unrestricted medical certificate.
  • Certification in STCW Basic Safety Training, ship security, anti-piracy, and firefighting.
  • Must have a valid GMDSS General Operator’s Certificate.
  • Must have a valid ENG1 medical certificate.

Deck Cadet Cover Letter Example (Text Version)

Dear Mr. / Ms.

I am writing to apply for the Deck Cadet position you have posted. I believe that I am an ideal candidate for the position due to my qualifications, experience, and dedication to safety.

I am a recent graduate of the United States Merchant Marine Academy with a degree in Marine Transportation. During my time at the Academy, I received extensive training in marine navigation, ship systems, and safety procedures. In addition, I have experience sailing on multiple ships and have sailed in both domestic and international waters.

My achievements include:

  • Completed a comprehensive course in marine engineering and navigation, including courses in maneuvering, cargo operations, ship construction and damage control, and safety operations.
  • Learned to take correct and accurate readings of navigation instruments and equipment.
  • Assisted in the navigation of the vessel, recording accurate readings, and plotting positions on nautical charts.
  • Learned to use navigational equipment such as radar, echo sounders, and gyro compasses.
  • Assisted the Chief Mate in the stowage and trimming of cargo, as well as the handling of mooring lines.
  • Gained knowledge in the operation and maintenance of propulsion, steering, and other mechanical systems.

I am also highly knowledgeable in all matters related to vessel operations and maintenance. I have a strong understanding of deck-related tasks, such as mooring, anchoring, and line handling. I have also had the opportunity to conduct and lead deck maintenance operations, including cleaning and painting the vessel’s surfaces.

I am also committed to safety, both on deck and in the engine room. I have an in-depth understanding of safety protocols and procedures, and I always put safety first in all of my operations.

I am confident that my qualifications and experience make me the perfect candidate for the Deck Cadet position. I look forward to discussing my candidacy further with you.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

When writing a cover letter for a Deck Cadet position, be sure to emphasize your ability to work as part of a team, your knowledge of the maritime industry, your physical fitness, and your problem-solving skills. Additionally, demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position and highlight any experience or training that is applicable to the job. For resume help, go through our extensive range of Deck Cadet Resume Samples .

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