I worked for the company. I saw capable crew members receive no promotion, while others advanced quickly without any obvious reason. There were many problematic captains, some of whom were dismissed and later rehired. The vessels were new but Chinese-built, provisions were generally adequate, salaries were not delayed, and there were bonuses, competitions, and prizes for the crew. Around 80 percent of the crews seemed to consist of the same people, which made the environment feel closed and difficult for newcomers.
I worked for the company. It offers stability, but career growth is difficult and seems to depend heavily on luck: I saw capable people with several promotions who were not advanced, while others moved up quickly without a clear reason.
I worked through the company and was scheduled to join a vessel after an interview and a medical examination. During the medical examination, a clinic claimed that I had kidney stones, although an independent MRI showed that I did not. The crewing manager tried to persuade me to resolve the issue with the doctors, and the company cancelled my voyage the next day, saying that an ex-crew member had been found. The tests and interview felt like a formality, and I do not recommend the company.
I worked for Lemissoler and completed 3 contracts. Salary was always paid on time, and the cargo hold cleaning bonus was paid in cash onboard: $250, sometimes doubled if the job was completed quickly. The vessels were relatively new, built between 2017 and 2021, although they were Chinese-built. Crew changes were handled without problems, and I was sometimes able to return home earlier for family reasons. The main drawback was the outdated management style of some captains and chief officers.
Since 2022, salaries have been increasing due to the arrival of European sailors, with ETOs now earning between $5500 and $6500 per month. Internet is now free, though not unlimited, and depends on the captain's discretion. Home insurance for sailors now covers Europe. Some problematic personnel have been removed, but others remain. While one manager is competent at work, he is personally selfish and has a controversial background regarding the war.
I worked for Lemissoler Ukraine for almost 10 years, and I regret my time there. The management is unprofessional, and the office staff are gossipy and untrustworthy. I had a bad experience with a captain who was disliked by the crew, and the overall atmosphere in the company has deteriorated. I left and have no regrets about my decision. My friends still working there confirm that it has become a terrible place to work.
Currently, the salary scale has increased, but you need to communicate your desire for a higher salary. I had a collaboration with them that didn't work out. I heard that Victoria Orlova has left to start her own company. She was known for solving problems effectively and organizing crew changes in difficult situations. The fleet has been reduced, and now there are 5 or 6 ships built in 2015-2016 and 4 new buildings from 2020-2021. The company is looking to expand its fleet but is facing challenges due to rising construction costs. There are many new faces among the crew, and promotions are happening regularly. The alcohol policy has become stricter.
I worked at Lemissoler once. Everything mentioned above is true, and the review is great. If everyone wrote such reviews, it would be helpful for job seekers. The pros are a good attitude towards people, while the cons include low salary growth for those promoted within the company and poor food quality a couple of years ago. The fleet is unfortunately geared, which is easier with gearless ships. Overall, they are doing well, developing, and they cover medical expenses, which is a plus. I had a great time working on the Brazil ship with excellent captains and a great chief mate. I wish Lemissoler prosperity and fewer negative comments like those mentioned above. I only have good memories.
I have worked on three voyages with Lemissoler. While I am not ready for a family yet, I want to work more to achieve my goals. The money at sea is decent, but not as high as we all would like. I have also worked with other companies, but my experience with Lemissoler has been mixed. I heard that the top positions include Master, Chief Officer, Chief Engineer, 2nd Engineer, and ETO. My focus is on salary rather than titles.