The company contacted me several times about a paid placement. When I refused, they asked whether I could pay at least half of the requested amount. I cannot confirm whether these people were direct employees or intermediaries, but this was my experience during the hiring process.
I have worked for the company for three contracts. My salary has been stable, the provision allowance was increased, and the office staff have always been available and helpful. I started as an ordinary seaman and progressed to third officer without paying anyone; promotion depended on passing the interview. The main drawback is that starting officer salaries are around 10–30% lower than those offered to experienced officers. During one contract my crew change was extended from six to seven months, although I accepted the extension because I was offered promotion.
I had a contract with this company on a vessel where the crew was kept on board for more than 10 months. Crew changes were significantly delayed, and some seafarers had to fight to leave the vessel. This was an extremely difficult experience.
During my contract with the company, the crew drank heavily and fought, while the crew were required to do a great deal of work for very little pay. Several people developed medical problems, but nobody was signed off. The company cut costs and operated vessels carrying sanctioned cargo. I strongly advise against working for this company.
I joined Novomar as a cadet after being promised a cadet program, career progression, and a salary of $600. Instead, I worked about 14 hours a day, and after two months I was told to transfer to another vessel for a delivery without my consent; $250 was deducted from my salary for the ticket. The company offered very low pay and showed favoritism in assignments and promotions. I strongly advise against working for this company.
I worked for Novomar Group-Crewing LLC for one contract as a wiper. The interview was not difficult and the working conditions were generally acceptable. The food could be improved, while the free 200 MB of internet per day was useful.
I worked for Novomar Group-Crewing LLC in 2023 as a cadet. I had no previous tanker experience but was assigned to a VLCC. My salary was $350, and with the provision allowance and bond it came to about $450. The company offered strong career progression, with several crew members being promoted during the contract.