I worked with the agency for eight years. They did not give me a start in rank, so I had to leave. They charge a $300 placement fee. Provisions depended on the captain, and the engine department was often supplied with refurbished or cheap parts that were not always suitable, despite correspondence about them lasting more than a month. Their ro-ro vessels were very good, though.
I approached this crewing agency as an OS with AB documents and discussed an AB position on one of their bulk carriers. They told me I first had to work two contracts as a messman and then spend about three years as an OS to gain experience. I decided that it would take too long to become an AB and declined.
I worked with Adriatico for 20 years. I started as a cadet on old bulk carriers and spent the last 16 years working on ro-ro vessels with Stamco S.M. I enjoyed working with Adriatico and left because I decided to change fleets.
The agency placed me on my first AHTS contract even though I had no previous experience. The vessel had no internet and its condition was mediocre, although the food was very good. The crew consisted of Ukrainian and Filipino seafarers.