I completed three contracts with SMT Shipping. The company had a strong work-focused culture, and working 16 hours a day for long periods was considered normal. Voyages were often short, there was a constant shortage of crew and high turnover, and promotion opportunities were more favorable for Polish employees, while other nationalities generally needed at least three contracts to be considered for an officer position.
I completed one contract with SMT Shipping. The main drawback was the lack of days off, and I do not want to return.
I am currently on a voyage with SMT Shipping and so far everything is satisfactory. I have seen an engineer promoted to fourth engineer after two contracts, and the company generally treats people who do their jobs properly well. There is overtime, but the internet is poor and is mostly suitable only for writing messages.
I worked for SMT Shipping for one contract as an engineer. My salary and overtime payments were handled correctly, but I often had to work 12–16 hours because the vessel was in very poor condition. The accommodation and maintenance standards were poor, although the food was good and internet access was available. Supplies could take a long time unless the master and chief engineer actively pushed for them, and I saw opportunities for promotion.
I nearly joined through people claiming to represent SMT Shipping. They urgently requested a sub-flag medical commission; after I completed everything myself, the contact stopped responding. The contact details led to a personal account, which made the arrangement look suspicious.
I tried working for SMT Shipping on a vessel. The ship was old but well maintained and had plenty of spare parts, and there was a monthly bonus. The crew was mixed, but I had a disagreement with the captain and did not regret leaving. Overall, I found the company average, although the salary had been increased.
I completed three contracts with SMT Shipping. The vessels were old, overtime was reduced, and the workload was heavy, with very few days off. Provisions and supplies were poor, internet access was usually limited, and there was a strong preference for Polish crew members in promotions. The company also reduced some positions and expected crew members to perform additional duties for the basic salary.
I am currently doing my second contract with SMT Shipping. The salaries are good and there are enough vessels, although the vessels are in average condition despite being maintained. The voyages are often short, and the crews are mixed, including Polish, Ukrainian and Filipino seafarers. The company is now trying to extend contracts to nine months for ratings and six to seven months for officers, so many people are leaving.