Nautical studies is the field which deals with topics related to ships and the sea. Those who enroll in a nautical studies course will learn fundamental principles about topics such as navigation, ship operation, marine communications, cargo work, and ship construction. Such a course is a viable option for anyone who seeks to make a living aboard a ship or working with one.
There are a wide range of career options available to anyone who has graduated from a nautical studies course. The advantages of choosing such a career are plentiful. Lucrative salaries, excellent prospects for career advancement, the acquisition of skills which allow one to work aboard ships of any size anywhere in the world, and life-changing experiences never to be forgotten – all are the products of choosing a fulfilling career after completing a nautical studies course.
Marine Surveyor
Some nautical studies graduates might choose to become marine surveyors. Marine surveyors are people who conduct surveys of marine vessels to ensure their seaworthiness. Most marine surveyors work for owners of vessels; however, some work for the government or insurance agencies. After completing an inspection, they will be able to let the owner of the vessel know exactly what condition the vessel is in.
Marine surveyors ensure that the machinery and equipment of a sea vessel are fully functional. Examples of such machinery and equipment include those for communications, engines, and navigation. Marine surveyors also check emergency and safety equipment to ensure that they are fit for use under realistic operating conditions. Before a surveyor can provide approval, all generated reports must first fall within the acceptable standards.
Should any maritime accidents occur, the marine surveyor is to investigate them. They may do so as part of services purchased by an affected vessel’s owner or as part of an insurance organization. By determining the exact condition of the vessel before the accident occurred, the correct amount of insurance can be claimed.
They must also determine exactly how much damage was done. To do so, marine surveyors consult vessel reports issued before the accident. For these reasons, many marine surveyors work for protection and indemnity insurance companies; they work as third-party specialists who ascertain damage compensation.
Port Operative
Another plausible career option for any nautical studies graduate is that of a port operative. Port operatives work with passengers, cargo, and marine craft in any port or harbour. They work in three main areas: passenger operations, marine operations, and stevedoring.
Passenger operatives primarily work at ferry ports and cruise terminals. They check travel documents, direct vehicles to and from parking areas on board the vessel, assist passengers with alighting from or boarding the vessel, load and unload luggage, and provide passengers with information about sailing times and weather conditions.
Should an emergency arise, passenger operatives are to respond to passengers’ needs. They are the workers tasked with assisting passengers and third parties during an emergency; thus, they must demonstrate high standards of customer care.
Marine operatives usually work with smaller vessels such as rowboats and pilot launches. They are to refuel vessels, conduct cleanup work after pollution incidents, operate VHF radio and radar equipment, transfer passengers and crew members to ships moored offshore, conduct navigation activities, and place marker buoys in the harbour. Before beginning the job, a marine operative should have received proper training in fire fighting, first aid, and sea survival.
Stevedores are port operatives who are mainly employed on roll-on/roll-off ferries and container ships. A stevedore maintains lifting equipment and machinery, operates conveyor equipment and suction pumps for bulk cargo, loads and unloads cargo containers by using ship or dockside cranes, and transfers cargo to storage areas by using forklift trucks or trailer wagons. A stevedore may be required to work with just about any type of cargo from raw materials to food to manufactured goods – and many others besides.
Navigation Officer
Navigation officers are key members of any ship’s onboard management team. Their role is to ensure the safety of all passengers, crew members, and cargo as well as the vessel itself. It is the duty of the navigation officer to make key decisions on the ship’s navigation, communications, cargo, crew, and general operation. They also perform daily deck operations as well as general maintenance tasks.
In spite of their job title, navigation officers are in charge of more than navigation alone. They are to load and unload the vessel as well as maintain its stability when at sea. The vast majority of a navigation officer’s working hours are spent at sea. A navigation officer mainly works on the ship’s bridge or deck.
A competent navigation officer should be adept in personal survival, fire fighting, and first aid. After gaining sufficient experience, a navigation officer can easily progress through the ranks. Novice navigation officers begin as Third Officers. They may subsequently be promoted to the ranks of Second Officer, Chief Officer, and eventually Captain. All legal and commercial matters pertaining to the ship are assigned to the Captain.
Ranaco Education & Training Insitute’s Diploma in Nautical Studies
Considering the many job opportunities available, you might be eager to enter the world of nautical studies. You can let Ranaco Education & Training Institute guide you through your first steps via our Diploma in Nautical Studies programme. This course prepares graduates for a career on the seas by equipping them with knowledge about marine cargo operation, basic ship theory, maritime law and convention, marine safety, and several other related topics.
The Diploma in Nautical Studies programme lasts for two years and six months. Students will be enrolled in the course for seven semesters; industrial training will also be provided to them. Upon completion of their studies, graduates will have obtained a great deal of exposure to ship navigation and related areas, providing them with a plethora of employment opportunities such as those mentioned.
Don’t wait any longer – kickstart your career by enrolling in the Diploma in Nautical Studies programme now. We look forward to seeing you there.
