I worked for Prime Marine from 2015 to 2018 on Panamax vessels. The vessels were in reasonable condition, but supplies were poor, paperwork was excessive, and there was constant control from the masters and the office. Salaries were near the top of the market, but they were paid with a one-month delay. Promotion was difficult, internet was paid, cash advances were rarely provided, and crew members were often expected to pay for their assignments; it was acceptable as a starting point, but I would not choose it for long-term employment.
I completed three contracts with Prime Marine. I first joined through another crewing agency and later worked with Prime Marine directly. The fleet has been shrinking, and there are now fewer available positions, so crew members may wait several months for their next assignment. Contracts have also been reduced to around four months, although the salaries remain attractive.
I worked for Prime Marine for three months and left at the end of a repair period. I had to pursue compensation through a union, and the company paid reluctantly. The salary was normal and satellite internet was unlimited, but the food was poor, supplies were inadequate, and the onboard conditions depended heavily on the senior officers.
I worked for Prime Marine on tankers for six contracts. I spent a long time as an oiler; although the company repeatedly promised career growth, I was only promoted to fourth engineer after five contracts. The vessels were suitable for the position, and my salary was always paid, though it usually arrived around the 20th of the following month. Working conditions depended greatly on the master and chief engineer.
I completed four contracts with Prime Marine after being sent through a crewing agency. The agency required numerous tests, including an English test, and then sent crew members to Russian-speaking crews. Promotion was effectively limited to insiders or required paying a large amount of money. My experience also varied greatly depending on the master and chief engineer.
I completed five contracts with Prime Marine. Promotion was not available unless money was involved, and the office often ignored crew members; when senior inspectors came onboard, the situation became extremely difficult, although they were hard to find during inspections. The company claimed to have high standards, but my experience was very different.
I completed one contract with Prime Marine. The company required a great deal of unnecessary paperwork and additional tests while I was already onboard. The internet was free, my crew change took place on time, and I was satisfied with the food. The fleet was not new, and some maintenance work had to be carried out by the crew.
I completed one contract with Prime Marine on an LPG vessel. The salary was above average and the internet was free, but the vessel was in poor condition and spare parts were difficult to obtain. There was a great deal of paperwork, and the company did not want to promote me until I said I was leaving. I would not return.
I have been working at Prime Marine for 10 years. The main reason I stay is the real growth opportunities. However, the condition of the ships is not very good, and the crew often includes unique individuals from post-Soviet countries. The unlimited internet is a great plus, but the food is average. They have never provided decent advances, and salaries are now paid by the 10th of the following month. The office staff is overly bureaucratic, and the focus seems to be more on paperwork than on actual maintenance. Overall, the salary level is average, and it's a challenging environment to work in.
My experience with Prime Marine Management has been extremely negative. The level of professionalism among crew members is often very low, and support from the office is virtually non-existent. There are endless meetings and paperwork, but no real solutions. The management seems to be out of touch, and the overall atmosphere on board is frustrating. I strongly advise against working with this company.