I worked for NSB Group and left after a dispute over my seniority allowance. When I asked for the allowance to be paid based on my previous service, the company gave me different explanations about which service counted. The vessels were often in poor condition, although supplies on CMA CGM vessels were delivered and were of good quality. In my case, the food was good and depended on the cook and the captain.
I worked two contracts as a fitter with CMA. The company paid an annual bonus, and my overall impression of the employment was positive.
I previously worked for the company. The ships were different, but the crewing department was generally adequate, internet was available on board, and the salary was high for container ships. The food was good, the ships were generally solid, and crew changes and employment were usually arranged according to schedule. Career progression was reasonable during the COVID period but later became much weaker.
I joined CMA in 2014 as a third engineer, completed one contract, and was promoted to second engineer immediately. In my more recent experience, promotion has become less predictable: employees are told nothing is guaranteed, and advancement depends on available positions and management decisions.
I have worked for CMA for five years. The fleet includes ships under Singapore and Marseille management; the ships vary, and second-hand vessels are usually improved over several contracts. The company provides a New Year bonus, performance bonuses for top officers, medical insurance for officers, and internet access, although the conditions depend on the office and position.
I am currently working for CMA as an able seaman. The company pays well, provides overtime and annual bonuses, and the managers are helpful. Food and provisions are good, and the ship has facilities for rest and recreation.
I went through all the interviews for CMA, but ultimately decided not to move to container ships. The recruitment process was completed, and the conditions appeared very good, but I chose another type of vessel instead.
The internet on board costs about $9 per day and includes a limited amount of free data when Starlink is available. Crew changes have been carried out on time, and I have had no complaints about them. The ship also had a reefer engineer, and so far I had not encountered a vessel without one.
I applied through the Hamburg office and was interviewed by the Marseille office. I was offered a position on a container ship built in 2017; the interview and tests were reasonable, and candidates without electronic-engine experience are sent to courses. After joining, I found the work acceptable, and a relieving officer travelled with me for four days to hand over the duties.
I passed all the interviews for CMA, but eventually declined the offer and moved to a German company. The selection process included English and professional interviews, medical checks, and additional tests.