Ria Marine charged me a departure fee of UAH 3,800, despite stating that there was no commission.
This is my second contract through Ria Marine, working on a container ship. My salary has always been paid correctly and I have never had any problems. I did not pay a departure fee. There is some career progression, although it seems to be more by exception; in my case, I progressed from AB to boatswain. The salaries are above average.
I am working through Ria Marine on LSC tankers. The fleet mainly consists of tankers and gas carriers, with vessels ranging from newbuilds to 15-year-old Croatian ships. There is room for career growth, although the vessels can be demanding. Food quality varies, management ranges from adequate to very poor, but overall the company is workable; internet is unlimited and the salaries are good.
I had to go through a medical examination in local centers, but they compensate it in dollars. The English speaking test and the interview were free. I am currently on my second contract and I hope to continue working with this crewing agency. The attitude towards sailors is very friendly. There are rumors that vaccination will soon be a mandatory requirement.