If sailing the high seas and earning a lucrative salary excites you, then a career in the Merchant Navy might be your perfect fit. Unlike the Indian Navy, the Merchant Navy is a commercial fleet responsible for transporting goods and passengers across international waters. With high salaries, global travel opportunities, and job security, the Merchant Navy is a sought-after career. This guide covers everything—Merchant Navy Salary structure, eligibility, courses, selection process, and career growth.
What is the Merchant Navy?
The Merchant Navy consists of cargo ships, oil tankers, passenger vessels, and container ships operated by private and government shipping companies. It plays a vital role in global trade, handling 90% of international cargo transport.
Merchant Navy vs. Indian Navy
| Aspect | Merchant Navy | Indian Navy |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Commercial | Military |
| Role | Transport goods/passengers | National defense |
| Employment | Private/Govt. shipping companies | Government (Defense) |
| Salary | High (Tax-free in some cases) | Fixed pay scales |
Merchant Navy Salary Structure (2025)
Salaries in the Merchant Navy are tax-free for seafarers and vary based on rank, experience, and ship type.
Merchant Navy Salary Per Month (Approx.)
| Rank | Starting Salary (Monthly) | Experienced Salary (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| Deck Cadet | ₹40,000 – ₹60,000 | ₹1,00,000+ |
| Third Officer | ₹1,20,000 – ₹1,50,000 | ₹2,00,000+ |
| Second Officer | ₹1,50,000 – ₹2,00,000 | ₹2,50,000+ |
| Chief Officer | ₹2,50,000 – ₹3,50,000 | ₹4,50,000+ |
| Captain/Master | ₹4,00,000 – ₹6,00,000+ | ₹8,00,000+ |
| Marine Engineer | ₹1,50,000 – ₹3,00,000 | ₹5,00,000+ |
(Source: IMO Salary Guidelines)
How to Join the Merchant Navy? (2025 Guide)
1. Eligibility Criteria
After 10th Grade
- Courses:
- Deck Rating (3 months)
- Engine Rating (3 months)
- Saloon Rating (4 months)
After 12th (Science Stream – PCM Required)
- Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS)
- B.Sc. in Nautical Science
- Marine Engineering Courses
After Graduation (B.Tech/B.E.)
- GME (Graduate Marine Engineer) – 1-year course
- MBA in Shipping & Logistics (For managerial roles)
2. Top Entrance Exams
- IMU CET (Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test)
- MERI (Marine Engineering Research Institute) Exam
- TS Chanakya Entrance Exam
(Outbound Link: IMU Official Website)
Merchant Navy Qualifications & Courses
| Course | Duration | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| DNS (Diploma in Nautical Science) | 1 Year | 12th PCM (60%) |
| B.Sc. Nautical Science | 3 Years | 12th PCM |
| B.Tech Marine Engineering | 4 Years | 12th PCM + JEE |
| GME (Graduate Marine Engineer) | 1 Year | B.E./B.Tech (Mechanical/ Naval) |
(Outbound Link: DG Shipping Approved Courses)
Career Growth in Merchant Navy
- Deck Department:
- Deck Cadet → Third Officer → Second Officer → Chief Officer → Captain
- Engine Department:
- Engine Cadet → Fourth Engineer → Third Engineer → Second Engineer → Chief Engineer
Top Merchant Navy Institutes in India
- Tolani Maritime Institute, Pune
- IMU (Indian Maritime University), Chennai
- LBS College of Advanced Maritime Studies, Mumbai
(Outbound Link: Tolani Maritime Institute)
FAQs About Merchant Navy
1. Is Merchant Navy a government job?
No, it’s a private-sector commercial shipping job, but some PSUs like SCI hire Merchant Navy officers.
2. What is the salary of a Merchant Navy Captain?
A Captain’s salary ranges between ₹4-8 lakhs/month, depending on experience and ship type.
3. Can girls join the Merchant Navy?
Yes! Women can pursue careers as Navigation Officers, Marine Engineers, or Cruise Ship Doctors.
4. Is the Merchant Navy risky?
Modern ships have advanced safety systems, making it safer than before.
Conclusion
The Merchant Navy offers high salaries, global exposure, and rapid career growth. Whether you join after 10th, 12th, or graduation, there are lucrative opportunities in shipping companies worldwide.
Start your journey today by enrolling in a DG Shipping-approved course!
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