I worked as a crane operator through Lowland Ukraine on a Vroon offshore vessel. The daily rate for the position was €300. There was nothing special about the assignment, but the crewing company performed its duties and the pay was average for the positions.
I worked offshore through Lowland Ukraine. In the area where I worked, there was no career progression for ratings. Lowland is a well-established Dutch crewing company with an office in Odesa; salaries are average, but after several contracts it is possible to request an increase. Experience with Lowland and the Dutch fleet can help with future employment opportunities.
I worked with Lowland Ukraine for more than four years, mainly on offshore assignments with Vroon. I did not find those assignments particularly good, although the salaries were average and acceptable. The crewing company fulfilled its responsibilities, did not charge a departure fee, and was suitable when no better work was available. I eventually moved on because my salary expectations increased beyond what they could offer.
About two years ago, I visited the company's office to apply for a vacancy advertised on its website. The Ukrainian office did not respond to my emails, calls, or messages. The Romanian office collected my details and uploaded my application, but told me to contact the Ukrainian office because the Romanian branch only hires Romanian citizens.
I recently returned from an offshore assignment arranged by Lowland Ukraine on a Vroon support vessel. I had no complaints: the company performed its work and fulfilled its obligations. The rate depends on how well you negotiate.
I work as a third officer on bitumen tankers. Lowland Ukraine cooperates with another crewing company, and the crews are mixed, including Indian, Filipino, Ukrainian, Romanian, and Russian seafarers. Salaries are average, contracts are usually six months, and senior officers have four-month contracts.
I had a very frustrating experience with Lowland Ukraine. After contacting them through LinkedIn, I was asked to provide a lot of documents, including my entire work history. A few hours later, they informed me that my qualifications were too expensive for Vroon. It felt like they were just trying to figure out how much they could profit from me. In the end, I decided to walk away from the situation. I found them to be unprofessional, especially since I had clearly outlined everything in my resume.