Axel Apoy
Master
What qualities do you believe is key to enjoy the role as Seafarer?
For me the most important quality for a Seafarer is the social competence. To be able to live and work together for weeks or months in a limited space means that everyone onboard needs to compromise and respect each other.
Second most important I would say is to be solution-driven in all areas. There is just a limited amount of crew members onboard and many time there is a lack of special competence for specific jobs. There is also not always a specific tool or sparse available, so creativity is key.
And of course it always helps if you like to travel and see new places!
Could you share any memorable experiences you've had while working as a Seafarer at Clinton?
Thinking back, I have many great memories from my time in Clinton. Last shift for example, we had time to take a hike around Sweden's most northern marina and prepare food over a small bonfire in the local forest, while waiting out hard winds in the survey area.
Another time I was able to bring my bike onboard to explore Northern Scotland and the Isle of Harris on my free time, when working 12h-operations near shore on our smaller vessel.
What advice would you give someone who is interested in pursuing a career as a Seafarer?
Try it out. It doesn't make sense to study 4 years to become an officer or an engineer before you know if you like to work at sea or not. Ask instead for a time onboard as a deck hand or cadet before you're sure that this life suits you.
Although, make sure you have the basic theory and proof of a valid Basic Safety course and medical certificate for seafarer before you join any vessel for work.