Sea time is essential for pursuing a maritime career, as it documents your experience in terms of vessel department, total days served, waters navigated, tonnage, and horsepower. Credentials and endorsements depend heavily on this documented sea service. The National Maritime Center's checklists help mariners understand the endorsements they qualify for based on their sea time.

Credential and Endorsement Pathways

The document outlines the pathways to different maritime credentials depending on sea time and the type of service. For example:

• 180 days of service: You may qualify for endorsements like Able Seaman (AB) Special, Sail, OSV, Fishing, or Mate for vessels under 200 tons.
• 360 days of service: This could lead to credentials like Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV) Inland, Master 100-ton Inland, or Able Seaman Limited for vessels over 100 gross register tons (GRT).
• 540 days of service: With additional specific vessel experience, you can pursue endorsements such as Apprentice Mate (Steersman) Inland or Near Coastal, or AB Unlimited for larger vessels.
• 720 days of service: You may qualify as a Master for vessels under 100 tons Near Coastal or as a Mate for 200-ton vessels Near Coastal, provided specific conditions are met.
• 1080 days of service: Advanced credentials like Mate of Fishing Vessels Near Coastal become accessible.
• 1440 days of service: Experience as a Mate of Towing may lead to endorsements like Master of Towing Inland or Near Coastal.

Key Requirements and Additional Notes

Certain roles require days served in specific positions, such as Master or Mate, or performing bridge watchkeeping duties under supervision. There are also tonnage limitations and vessel size requirements that apply to certain endorsements. Some endorsements may require additional courses or specific types of sea time, such as service on the Great Lakes or tugboats.

Contact for Career Guidance

For further information or guidance on courses and career planning, you can reach out to:

• C. Spence & Maritime AssociatesPhone: 206.788.0491
  Email: [email protected]