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The Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) is the most important document for your career at sea. It is often called the "seafarers' bill of rights" and it applies to virtually every commercial vessel worldwide. Yet most seafarers I meet have only a vague understanding of what it actually says.
What is the MLC?
Adopted by the International Labour Organization in 2006 and entered into force in 2013, the MLC sets minimum working and living standards for all seafarers on commercial vessels. As of 2026, it has been ratified by over 100 countries representing more than 96% of world shipping tonnage. This means it applies to almost every vessel you are likely to work on.
In my 20 years at sea, I have reviewed hundreds of employment contracts — my own and those of colleagues who asked for advice. The maritime industry has improved significantly, but problematic contracts still exist. Here is how to spot them before you sign.
Why contract review matters
Your employment contract is the only legally binding document that defines your working conditions, pay, and rights. Verbal promises are worthless. Whatever is not in the contract does not exist. Period.
Take the contract home. Read every line. If anything is unclear, ask for clarification in writing. Any reputable company will give you time to review the contract. If they pressure you to sign immediately — that itself is a red flag.
If there is one tool that every maritime professional should have bookmarked, it is MarineTraffic. Whether you are an officer planning your next voyage, an engineer researching a vessel before joining, or a cadet learning about shipping routes — this platform is indispensable.
What is MarineTraffic?
MarineTraffic is the world's leading ship tracking platform. It uses AIS (Automatic Identification System) data from a global network of receivers to show real-time positions of vessels worldwide. Think of it as Google Maps for ships.
Every seafarer checks the weather. But most use basic apps that show you a sun or a cloud icon and a temperature. For actual route planning and operational decision-making, you need something far more capable. That tool is Windy.
Why Windy?
Windy is built by meteorology enthusiasts and used by pilots, sailors, surfers, and maritime professionals worldwide. It presents complex weather data in a visual, intuitive way that other tools simply cannot match.
Choosing the right crewing agency can make or break your career at sea. After 15 years in the industry and working with over a dozen agencies, here is everything I wish someone had told me when I was starting out.
Money is not everything, but fair compensation matters. After switching companies three times and increasing my salary by 40% over four years, here is everything I have learned about negotiating better pay in the maritime industry.
Understanding the market
Before any negotiation, you need data. This is where platforms like CrewRate are invaluable — real salary data from real seafarers, broken down by position, vessel type, and company.
Key factors that affect maritime salaries:
- Vessel type: Tankers and LNG carriers generally pay more than bulk carriers or container ships
- Company size: Major companies (Maersk, MSC, Teekay) often have structured pay scales. Smaller operators may have more flexibility
- Trading area: Deep sea pays more than coastal. High-risk areas command premium rates
- Your certificates: Additional certifications (DP, ice navigation, specialized cargo) increase your value
- Experience: Obviously matters, but the jump from 3 to 5 years experience is worth more than 15 to 17 years
STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) is the foundation of every maritime career. Whether you are a cadet just starting out or a senior officer managing your renewals, understanding the STCW framework saves you time, money, and stress.
What is STCW?
The STCW Convention was adopted by IMO in 1978 and has been amended several times, most significantly in 2010 (the Manila Amendments). It sets qualification standards for masters, officers, and watchkeeping personnel on commercial vessels.