This was my first time working through Uniteam. There are no agency fees, but they often respond slowly and may forget about you unless you remind them. Tests and courses can be requested at the last minute, and some crew members may even receive a Marlins test after joining the vessel.
I passed an interview and was told to wait for the shipowner's official decision. After one and a half months, I still had no information, not even a rejection, and I eventually found another contract.
I accepted a vacancy through Uniteam and was told that the shipowner was still deciding on my candidacy. I waited two weeks without receiving any answer, even after following up. I later learned that the seafarer I was supposed to replace had already been waiting for a replacement for two months.
I completed one contract through Uniteam and had a conflict on board. When I returned to the office, nobody asked what had happened; instead, they made it clear that I would not work through them again. I felt that the office showed complete disregard for its own employee.
I completed a six-month contract as an oiler on a container ship. The vessel was generally acceptable, but the diesel engines had problems, spare parts and supplies were limited, and the crew carried out major overhauls themselves. I worked frequent night manoeuvres, and watchkeeping with the engineer often continued every other day after the normal working day. Food was below average, while salary was paid on time and free onboard internet was available, although it was slow.
I have worked through Uniteam for six years in the V.Ship container fleet. Salaries were not delayed, and the contract length was four months. The crews were mixed, and working there was generally possible, although promotion to senior positions was not easy.
I am leaving this company. They initially offered me a vessel and I started to go through the tests. There was a test for which I had to pay them money. I was told that they would cover the cost and send me the link only after I completed the medical examination. So, it's practically the same situation. I am flying out the day after tomorrow. So, make your own decision.
I had a rather strange experience with this crewing agency. I submitted my application and was immediately invited for an interview. After the interview, they called me back within an hour to say they were interested and needed me to undergo a medical examination at a specific location. I declined due to a scheduling conflict. A week later, they called again with another job offer, and I agreed. However, they called back an hour later to say I was confirmed and needed to go for the medical examination again. It feels like they are just complicating the medical process.