Route 01 — Joining the Merchant Navy

So, you want to join the Merchant Navy.

It's a career that rewards preparation — and the earlier you get clear information, the better every choice that follows becomes. We'll walk you through the routes, the academies and the entrance process with people who have actually sailed them.

The career you're stepping into.

Seeing the work up close makes the choice between deck and engine far easier. Here's what the days actually look like.

Officers in uniform
The engine room
Bridge watchkeeping
Cadets & crew at work
Where you are in the journey

Three ways to start, matched to where you already are.

Pick the level of support you need — from a single counselling session through to end-to-end guidance up to your first contract.

Tier 1 — Foundation

Career & Academy Counselling

Contact for pricing

For anyone still deciding whether this career is right for them, and which path — deck or engine — actually fits.

  • 1:1 session on deck vs. engine, and what each involves day to day
  • Shortlist of DG Shipping-approved academies matched to your budget and goals
  • Walkthrough of medical fitness, eligibility, sponsorship vs. self-funded routes
  • A written summary you can share with your family
Enroll in Foundation
Tier 2 — Prep

Entrance & Interview Preparation

Contact for pricing

For aspirants who've picked a path and need to get through the door — exams, medicals and interviews.

  • Structured prep for entrance tests and academy-specific exams
  • Mock interviews with real feedback, run by former senior officers
  • Document and medical-fitness checklist so your application goes in complete
  • Everything in Foundation, included
Enroll in Prep
Tier 3 — Voyage

End-to-End Till Placement

Contact for pricing

For aspirants who want a mentor accountable from application through to signing their first contract.

  • Everything in Foundation and Prep, included
  • Ongoing mentorship through pre-sea training
  • Application support and introductions for cadetship placements
  • Direct access for questions until you're signed on
Enroll in Voyage
01 — CLARITY

Published pricing and a written scope, upfront

What you pay and what you receive are written down before you enroll, so you can take your time and decide calmly.

02 — MENTORSHIP

Guided by people who have held the rank

Former Masters and Chief Engineers who have sat on both sides of the interview table, and know what selectors are looking for.

03 — HONESTY

Realistic advice that genuinely improves your odds

We focus on the things within your control — preparation, fitness, documentation and interview craft — and tell you where you stand.

What aspirants say after going through it.

“I was set on engine because a cousin suggested it. One session made me realise deck actually fit how I think.”

— Aspirant, Foundation tier

“The mock interviews were harder than my actual academy interview. That's exactly what I needed.”

— Aspirant, Prep tier

“I knew exactly what I was paying for and who I'd be speaking to. That clarity made the whole decision easy.”

— Aspirant, Voyage tier

Sample quotes shown for layout — replace with verified testimonials before launch.

Start with a clear picture of what joining actually takes.

Pick a tier above, or write in if you're not sure which one fits.